Understanding Psoriasis: How Dermatology Can Help During Psoriasis Action Month
August marks Psoriasis Action Month, a time to raise awareness about this chronic skin condition and support those who live with it every day. At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our dermatology team provides compassionate, expert care to help patients manage psoriasis and improve their quality of life. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with psoriasis for years, understanding the condition is the first step toward effective management.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up on the surface of the skin too quickly. This buildup forms thick, scaly patches that can be red, inflamed, itchy, and sometimes painful.
There are several types of psoriasis, with the most common being plaque psoriasis, which accounts for about 80–90% of cases. Other forms include:
- Guttate psoriasis: small, drop-shaped lesions
- Inverse psoriasis: found in skin folds like the armpits or groin
- Pustular psoriasis: white pustules surrounded by red skin
- Erythrodermic psoriasis: a rare and severe form that covers most of the body
Psoriasis is not contagious, but it is a long-term condition that can come and go throughout a person’s life.
How Common Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis affects over 7.5 million people in the United States, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. It can develop at any age, but most commonly begins between the ages of 15 and 35.
The exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to an overactive immune system that triggers inflammation and skin cell overproduction. Genetics also plays a role as people with a family history of psoriasis are at greater risk.
Environmental factors, such as stress, infections, cold weather, or certain medications, can trigger flare-ups or worsen symptoms.
Is Psoriasis Curable?
While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, there are many effective treatments that can significantly reduce symptoms, clear the skin, and improve comfort. The goal of treatment is to interrupt the immune response that leads to rapid skin cell production, reduce inflammation, and manage flare-ups.
Because psoriasis is a chronic condition, ongoing management with a dermatology professional is essential to maintaining healthy skin and minimizing disruption to daily life.
How Do You Treat Psoriasis?
Treatment plans vary based on the severity of the condition, the type of psoriasis, and the individual’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
1. Topical Treatments
- Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and slow skin cell turnover
- Vitamin D analogs: Help slow skin growth
- Coal tar and salicylic acid: Used to relieve scaling, itching, and inflammation
2. Light Therapy (Phototherapy)
Exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial ultraviolet light can reduce symptoms, especially in moderate to severe cases.
3. Systemic Medications
For more advanced or resistant cases, oral or injectable medications may be prescribed, such as:
- Biologics (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept): Target specific parts of the immune system
- Methotrexate or cyclosporine: Suppress the immune response
4. Lifestyle Management
- Avoiding known triggers (stress, smoking, alcohol)
- Using gentle skin care products
- Staying moisturized to reduce itching and flaking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Our dermatologists work closely with patients to create personalized care plans that address both physical symptoms and emotional well-being.
Support for Psoriasis at The Medical Group of New Jersey
Living with psoriasis can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our dermatology experts are here to help you find relief and regain confidence in your skin.
This Psoriasis Action Month, we encourage you to seek support, learn more about your condition, and take proactive steps toward better skin health. A diagnosis is just the beginning. Compassionate care and effective treatment can make a meaningful difference.