Psoriasis doesn’t just happen on the surface of your skin—it starts inside your body with your immune system. While the exact cause of psoriasis has not yet been determined, researchers believe it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. Psoriasis is not contagious but instead occurs when the immune system is not functioning properly and causes inflammation.

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It can cause itchy and painful plaques on your skin and affect different parts of your body such as your scalp. On lighter skin these plaques tend to be pink or red with silvery scales whereas on darker skin, they may be purple, violet, or dark brown with gray scales.

For most people with psoriasis, symptoms come and go over time. However, different factors, including stress and certain weather conditions, can trigger psoriasis symptoms. These triggers differ for different people.

You will find more information about triggers and some lifestyle tips and tools for managing symptoms below.