Psoriasis Treatment in Washington, DC

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes skin cells to build up more quickly than usual. This can result in areas of thickened, scaly, itchy, or discolored skin.

Psoriasis can affect people of all ages and skin tones. Symptoms may improve for periods of time and then return or worsen.

The appearance of psoriasis can vary depending on the type of psoriasis, the location of the affected skin, and the patient's skin tone.

What Does Psoriasis Look Like?

Psoriasis can appear differently from person to person. Common features may include:

• Thickened areas of skin
• Scaling or flaking
• Itching
• Dry or cracked skin
• Raised patches
• Discoloration
• Areas of inflammation
• Symptoms that come and go over time

Commonly affected areas include the elbows, knees, scalp, trunk, hands, feet, and other areas of the body.

Not everyone with psoriasis experiences the same symptoms or affects the same areas.

Common Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form and can cause raised, thickened areas of skin with scaling.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis can cause scaling, itching, and thickened areas on the scalp. It may sometimes extend beyond the hairline.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis commonly affects skin folds, such as the underarms, groin, or areas beneath the breasts. It may appear smoother and less scaly than psoriasis in other areas.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis can cause multiple small, raised spots on the skin and may develop relatively suddenly.

Other Forms of Psoriasis

Other forms of psoriasis can have different appearances and may require different approaches to treatment.

A dermatologist can evaluate your skin and determine what type of psoriasis or other skin condition may be contributing to your symptoms.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is associated with an overactive immune response that causes skin cells to develop more rapidly than usual.

Genetics can also play a role in a person's likelihood of developing psoriasis.

Certain factors may trigger or worsen symptoms, including:

• Stress
• Skin injuries or irritation
• Certain infections
• Some medications
• Changes in weather or climate
• Other individual triggers

Triggers vary from person to person, and not everyone with psoriasis will experience the same pattern.

What Can Trigger a Psoriasis Flare?

Psoriasis symptoms may worsen or flare in response to certain factors.

Potential triggers may include:

• Stress
• Skin injury
• Illness or infection
• Certain medications
• Cold or dry weather
• Smoking
• Other individual factors

Identifying personal triggers can be helpful when managing psoriasis.

Psoriasis and Skin of Color

Psoriasis can affect people of every skin tone, but it may look different on darker skin.

The redness commonly associated with psoriasis may be less apparent, while areas of purple, brown, gray, or darker discoloration may be more noticeable. Psoriasis can also leave temporary changes in skin color after inflammation improves.

Dr. Holmes considers skin tone and individual skin characteristics when evaluating psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Psoriasis?

Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent scaly or thickened areas of skin
• Recurring itchy patches
• Unexplained areas of skin discoloration
• Scaling or irritation of the scalp
• Cracked or painful skin
• Symptoms that continue despite over-the-counter treatment
• Recurrent skin flares
• Symptoms that interfere with your daily activities or quality of life

A dermatologist can determine whether your symptoms are consistent with psoriasis or another skin condition and recommend an appropriate treatment approach.

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Psoriasis is generally diagnosed through a dermatologic examination and discussion of your symptoms and medical history.

Dr. Holmes may consider:

• The appearance of the affected skin
• Location and distribution of the lesions
• How long symptoms have been present
• Whether symptoms come and go
• Possible triggers
• Previous treatments
• Your personal and family medical history

In some cases, additional evaluation may be recommended if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

Treatment for psoriasis depends on the type, location, severity, symptoms, and individual needs of the patient.

Depending on your situation, treatment may include:

• Prescription topical medications
• Medications that help reduce inflammation
• Skin-care recommendations
• Treatments directed at specific areas of the body
• Other therapies based on the severity and characteristics of the condition

Dr. Holmes will evaluate your skin and recommend an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms, skin characteristics, and treatment goals.

How Can Psoriasis Be Managed?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that may require ongoing management.

Depending on your individual situation, helpful strategies may include:

• Following your dermatologist's treatment plan
• Keeping the skin moisturized
• Avoiding known triggers when possible
• Protecting irritated or affected skin
• Managing stress
• Following recommended skin-care practices

Because psoriasis can change over time, regular dermatologic care may help address recurring or worsening symptoms.

Psoriasis vs. Dermatitis

Psoriasis and dermatitis can sometimes look similar, particularly when they cause dry, scaly, or irritated skin.

However, they are different conditions and may require different treatment approaches.

The location, appearance, pattern, symptoms, and history of the skin changes can help a dermatologist determine which condition may be contributing to your symptoms.

Learn more about Dermatitis Treatment →

Psoriasis vs. Other Skin Conditions

Several skin conditions can cause scaling, itching, discoloration, or inflammation.

Depending on the appearance and location, psoriasis may sometimes be confused with:

• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Fungal infections
• Other inflammatory skin conditions

If you're unsure what is causing persistent or recurring skin changes, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment approach.

Learn more about Rash Treatment →

Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis

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Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Psoriasis Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

She provides individualized evaluation and treatment for psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions. Dr. Holmes considers the appearance, location, severity, symptoms, and individual characteristics of each patient's condition when developing a treatment plan.

With a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes considers how inflammatory skin conditions may present differently across skin tones.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →