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Last updated 08/13/2021
Do you have patches on your skin resembling a reptiles scales? These can often appear on your elbows. It makes for rough scaly Psoriasis, patches on the skin.
Psoriasis can improve but then something triggers it to flare-up. All racial groups may develop it but more common in Caucasians, at an equal rate in men and women. Therefore it often develops between ages 15 and 35 but can be any age.
Some people may get more than one type and sometimes the psoriasis can change to another type. If you develop a rash and this does not go away even using over-the-counter medications, you should see your Dermatologist.
What is Psoriasis, Patches on the Skin?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disorder. This is a condition that affects over 125 million around the world. Also the cause is unknown and there is no prevention.
The disorder is not contagious so the lesions are not infectious. Your skin cells travel quickly to the epidermis developing into the familiar rough areas. As a result an overgrowth of keratin forming scales and itchy, dry patches. These are bothersome and may be different sizes.
The immune system and genetics are somewhat connected. About one-third of patients have a family member who has psoriasis. In short there is no known cure for Psoriasis, patches on the skin.
Triggers can be:
- Infections
- Stress
- Cold
- Alcohol
- Injury
- Certain medications
Symptoms of psoriasis:
- Itchy red rashes
- Dryness
- Fissures
- Skin flaking
- Peeling
- Small bumps
- Plaque
- Dents in finger nails
- Silver scales
Psoriasis Day or Psoriatic Arthritis Day is every year on the 29th of October.
Areas Where Psoriasis is Found
Scalp Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis may be very mild and have slight, fine scaling. It can also be very severe with thick, crusted plaques covering the whole scalp. Subsequently psoriasis may extend past the hairline onto the forehead, back of neck and around the ears.
The disorder can also look similar to seborrheic dermatitis and can be difficult to treat. Treatments may have different responses. Hair loss is common due to damage of hair follicles.
Eyelids
Eyelids can possibly be affected covering lashes with inflammation. This may lead to Entropion (inverted) or Epiblepharon (outward) lashes. It is an irritating condition. In addition this is extremely rare but psoriasis can occur on the eyeball itself.
Ear Psoriasis
Ear psoriasis may develop in the external ear canal.
Mouth
For some psoriasis lesions can develop on the gums, tongue, inside of cheek, inside nose or on the lips. This is very uncomfortable causing problems with chewing and swallowing food.
Nail Psoriasis
Changes in your nails can happen in about 50% with psoriasis and almost 80% of those with psoriatic arthritis. Nail psoriasis becomes common with age and if you have had psoriasis on the skin for a time. As a result it may present onychomycosis.
Face
Here psoriasis usually affects eyebrows, between nose and upper lip, upper forehead and hairline. The facial skin is sensitive. Likewise a biopsy is required to confirm.
5 Types of Psoriasis
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque Psoriasis (aka Vulgaris) is the most common type. It has the appearance of raised, inflamed lesions covered with silvery white scales. In short the build-up of dead skin cells.
As a result patches or plaques are usually found on elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. Moreover the lesions can be itchy and painful and may crack as well as bleed.
Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate Psoriasis meaning “drop” (like appearance) is the second most common type. This type looks like small red drop-like spots. The condition usually begins in childhood or with young adults. It can be found on the trunk or limbs.
It is brought on quickly by;
- Earache
- Upper respiratory infections
- Strep throat
- Tonsillitis
- Bronchitis
- Injury to the skin (Koebner phenomenon)
- Taking certain medications
Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse Psoriasis (aka Intertriginous ) is found in the skin folds of the:
- Armpits
- Groin
- Under breast
- Around the genitals
- Buttocks
The lesions appear as bright red in color along with being smooth and shiny. Gaining weight may increase your chances. Being in these areas lesions can be easily irritated due to rubbing of clothes and friction. As well as these folds tend to sweat.
Inverse can develop after another type of psoriasis has been found somewhere else on the body. Moreover many people have had both occurring at the same time.
Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular Psoriasis appears primarily in adults. White pustules appear (containing white blood cells) with red skin around. These are not yellow, a sign of infection. More importantly the pustules can develop on any area but most often on hands and feet.
Erthrodemic Psoriasis
Erthrodemic Psoriasis is a severe type that can cover the body. It has an angry red appearance and the skin may come off in sheets instead of small flakes. Symptoms include severe itching and pain.
It is a rare kind usually happening in those with unstable plaque psoriasis. If you are having a flare-up seek medical attention immediately. Most importantly this type is life-threatening.
Psoriasis Patches on the Skin in Children
Each year, around 20,000 children younger than 10, are diagnosed with psoriasis. Therefore misdiagnoses happen due to similarities between other skin disorders.
Reports have been presented mentioning infants although it is rare. So may surface as pitting and discolored nails, severe scaling on the scalp, diaper dermatitis or plaques.
Psoriasis Diagnosis
A diagnosis begins with a visit to your Dermatologist. Questions; about new medications, stress in your life or changes, and if you have any family members who have psoriasis.
Your Dermatologist will examine the skin that is affected and form a determination according to the type. This will support in deciding which treatment to pursue. Therefore a biopsy may be taken to see under a microscope for confirmation.
Treatment for Psoriasis Patches on the Skin
The treatment usually aims at the symptoms of pain, inflammation and the scaling. More importantly reducing the inflammation and slowing the growth of the skin cells causing the condition. Keeping the skin moist and lubricated can also comfort. Watch for National Psoriasis Foundation seal of Recognition on products.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is often tried first. This is used for moderate to severe psoriasis either by itself or combined with oral or injected medications.
With this treatment your skin will be exposed to natural or artificial light for controlled periods of time. Required are repeated sessions. Phototherapy includes sunlight, UVB broadband or narrowband.
Topical Therapy
To treat mild to moderate psoriasis corticosteroids may be given as a prescription. Often these are available in ointments, creams, lotions, gels, foams, sprays and shampoos.
Home Remedies
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is very soothing for inflamed skin. Its anti-inflammatory qualities will support pain relief. In short just apply to the surface of skin.
Yoga
Ayurveda to relieve stress. Less stress aids in calming those flare-ups.
Oats
Oats in the bath will also soothe skin from redness and itching. As well as a great time to relax.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil anti-fungal properties. Often it is added to shampoos to treat the scalp.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an herb used in cooking and this will aid with flare-ups
If you are in this area (Milwaukee, WI) there is a facility Psoriasis Clinic if you would like to contact a specialist. (AAOS is not connected to this facility, this is not an endorsement or promotion).
Wrapping it up
Do you have psoriasis? Are you in a support group?
Mary is the founder of All About Our Skin. Former esthetician and CPC. Enjoys researching skincare and has been studying our skin for the past fifteen years.