Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting more than eight million people across the United States. Yet it remains widely misunderstood. Misconceptions surrounding the disease can lead to social stigma for patients and delays in seeking medical care.
Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics regularly diagnoses and treats psoriasis, and our providers often hear many of those misconceptions directly from patients. With that in mind, we’re taking the opportunity to set the record straight by debunking three of the most common myths about psoriasis.
Myth 1: Psoriasis Is Contagious
One of the most persistent misconceptions is that you can catch psoriasis by touching someone who has it or by sharing personal items. This is entirely false. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, not an infection caused by bacteria or viruses. It occurs when an overactive immune system accelerates skin cell growth, causing cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface. The body is unable to shed these extra skin cells, and they begin to pile up on the skin’s surface, causing psoriasis to appear. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, psoriasis cannot be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, hugging, or via swimming pools.
Myth 2: Psoriasis Is Just a Minor Skin Problem
Since psoriasis presents visually on the skin, many people view it as merely a cosmetic issue or a simple rash. In reality, psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory condition. The internal inflammation associated with psoriasis can affect organs and joints throughout the body. The National Psoriasis Foundation highlights that individuals with psoriasis face an increased risk of developing related health conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health challenges such as depression. Proper medical management is crucial for long-term overall health, not just skin appearance.
Myth 3: Psoriasis Is Caused By Poor Hygiene
Another harmful belief is that psoriasis plaques result from inadequate washing or poor personal care. Hygiene plays no role in the development or flare-up of psoriasis. The condition stems from genetic factors combined with specific environmental triggers, such as physical injury to the skin, stress, or infections like strep throat. Suggesting uncleanliness as a cause could induce or exacerbate the mental health problems, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, that some psoriasis patients face.
Treatment for Psoriasis
Although there is no cure for psoriasis, it can be treated and managed with the help of our team of board-certified clinicians, which includes both physicians and physician assistants. Our experts can help you identify potential triggers and create a skincare routine. At Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics, we have a wide range of treatment options for psoriasis. To learn more, schedule an appointment online.
Q&A Recap
What Is the Main Cause of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated and systemic inflammatory condition where an overactive immune system causes skin cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface. It is influenced by genetics and specific triggers. Common triggers include emotional stress, physical skin trauma, and systemic infections like strep throat.
Can You Catch Psoriasis From Someone Else?
No, psoriasis is completely non-contagious. You cannot catch or spread psoriasis through touching, hugging, or sharing items with someone who has the condition.
Is Psoriasis Just a Cosmetic Skin Issue?
No, psoriasis goes beyond the skin. It is a systemic inflammatory disease that increases the risk of serious related health conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression.
Does Washing or Hygiene Affect Psoriasis?
No, personal hygiene plays no role in causing or triggering psoriasis.
How Can a Dermatologist Help Manage Psoriasis?
Board-certified providers — including our dermatologists and physician assistants — can accurately diagnose psoriasis, clear skin plaques, and prescribe targeted medical therapies that manage internal inflammation to protect long-term health.
