---
title: "Psoriasis"
---
## Skin that renews too fast
In psoriasis, the body makes new skin cells in days rather than weeks. [1] They pile up on the surface as dry, thick, raised patches, often covered with a silvery-white scale, and they tend to itch. [2]
Most people who get psoriasis have it for life, [1] but a good plan can bring real control and clearer, or even clear, skin. [1]
### Signs of psoriasis
- Dry, thick, raised patches of skin [2]
- Silvery-white scale on top [2]
- Itch [2]
- Tiny dents or discoloration in the nails [2]
- Swollen, tender joints or heel pain [2]
- 80 to 90% People with psoriasis who have the most common type, plaque psoriasis. [2]
## Why psoriasis flares
1. The immune system Psoriasis starts with an overactive immune system that speeds up the growth of skin cells.
2. Family history It often runs in families.
3. Triggers Flares can follow stress, an infection such as strep throat, an injury to the skin, smoking or alcohol, and some medicines.
4. Health links Psoriasis can raise the risk of certain diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis and diabetes. [1]
- Days, not weeks How fast the body makes new skin cells in psoriasis. [1]
## More than one kind
It's possible to have more than one type, and each looks a little different.
TypeWhat it looks likePlaqueRaised, scaly patches, often on the scalp, elbows, knees or lower back; 80 to 90% of cases [2]GuttateMany small bumps that appear suddenly, often in children after strep throatInverseSmooth, shiny patches where skin touches skin, like the armpits or groinNailTiny dents or discoloration of the nails [2]Psoriatic arthritisSwollen, tender joints, often a finger or toe, or heel pain [2]
Your provider identifies which types you have, because that shapes the plan.
## Where psoriasis shows up
AreaWhat you might seeScalpThick scale that can look like severe dandruffElbows and kneesClassic raised, scaly plaques [2]Lower backPlaques that itch [2]NailsPits or discoloration [2]JointsSwelling and tenderness [2]
## Real results from patients
The Paz difference
## A plan for the long run
Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, so the relationship with your dermatology team matters. Here, your plan is built around how much of your skin is affected, where, and how it affects your life, then adjusted over time as your skin responds.
Because joint pain can be an early sign of psoriatic arthritis, which can become disabling if it progresses, [2] your visits cover your joints too, not just your skin.
- Clear skin With help from a dermatologist, many people gain control and see clearer, or clear, skin. [1]
## When to see us
### Book an appointment if:
- You have patches that are thick, scaly or itchy
- Over-the-counter creams aren't helping
- Psoriasis is affecting your sleep, work or confidence
- Your nails are pitted or discolored
### Tell us promptly about:
- Joint pain, swelling or stiffness, especially in fingers, toes or heels [2]
- A sudden, widespread flare
## Everyday habits that help
- Try not to scratch; it can thicken the patches [2]
- Moisturize every day
- Take lukewarm, not hot, baths or showers
- Manage stress where you can
- If you smoke, consider quitting, and limit alcohol
- Keep your follow-up visits so your plan keeps working
## How we treat psoriasis here
Psoriasis is diagnosed and treated in a regular medical visit. Your provider builds a plan that may include medicine you apply to your skin and, for more extensive psoriasis, treatment that works throughout the body. See [Medical Dermatology](/medical-dermatology/) for what a medical visit covers.
## What treatment costs
Psoriasis care is medical care, and it's handled differently from the cosmetic treatments on this site. Our office walks you through what applies to you when you book.
What it isSkin cells made in days rather than weeks [1]Most common typePlaque psoriasis, 80 to 90% of cases [2]Can affectSkin, scalp, nails and joints [2]ContagiousNoWhereOur Fresno and Visalia offices
## Psoriasis questions, answered
**Q: Is psoriasis contagious?**
No. You can't catch psoriasis from someone or give it to anyone.
**Q: Can psoriasis be cured?**
Most people have it for life, [1] but treatment can bring it under control and clear the skin for many people. [1]
**Q: Why do my joints hurt?**
Psoriasis can affect the joints, a condition called psoriatic arthritis. [2] Tell your provider about joint pain early.
**Q: Is it the same as eczema?**
No. They can look similar, but they're different conditions with different treatments. A visit sorts out which you have.
**Q: Can psoriasis affect my nails?**
Yes. Look for tiny dents or discoloration under the nail. [2]
**Q: What makes it flare?**
Common triggers include stress, infections, skin injuries, smoking, alcohol and some medicines.
## References
[Psoriasis: Overview](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/what/overview)
[Psoriasis: Signs and symptoms](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/what/symptoms)
Content on this page is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Psoriasis treatment is chosen for each person, and results vary. Joint symptoms should be evaluated promptly. Individual results may vary.
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