Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition where skin cells are made faster than usual, causing patches of flaky skin. It affects around 1 in 50 people in the UK. It is linked to the immune system and often runs in families. It comes and goes, with flare-ups.
Symptoms
- patches (plaques) of skin covered in silvery scales. They look red or pink on white skin, and purple or dark brown on black and brown skin
- often on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back
- itching or soreness
- pitted or thickened nails
Types of psoriasis
- plaque psoriasis, the most common type
- scalp psoriasis
- guttate psoriasis, small drop-shaped spots, often after a sore throat
- inverse psoriasis, in skin folds
- pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis, which are rare and can be serious
Common triggers
- stress
- skin injury, such as cuts or scratches
- infections, such as throat infections
- smoking and alcohol
- some medicines
Linked conditions
Up to 1 in 3 people with psoriasis get psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis is also linked to heart disease, diabetes and depression.
Read about psoriasis treatment.
Common questions
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. You cannot catch psoriasis from someone else.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
It is a type of arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis, causing painful, swollen joints. Early treatment can prevent joint damage, so tell your GP about any joint pain.
Sources we used
We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.