Psoriasis in Venice, FL

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a persistent skin condition that speeds up the production of skin cells, forming raised, scaly plaques that can be itchy, sore, or cracked. The condition typically shows up on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails, though it can extend to additional areas of the skin..
While it isn’t contagious, psoriasis can have a big impact on comfort, self-esteem, and daily activities. The condition can vary in severity — some people have small, dry patches, while others experience widespread flare-ups.

At REJUVA Dermatology in Venice, FL, we provide effective treatments that aim to calm irritation, improve the look and feel of your skin, and help manage symptoms so you can live more comfortably and confidently.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Normally, new skin cells form and shed over about a month. In people with psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days, causing a buildup of cells that leads to scaling, redness, and inflammation.

Although the exact cause is still being studied, several factors are known to trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Common causes and triggers include:

Genetics: Having a family member with psoriasis increases your risk.
Immune system response: The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.
Infections: Illnesses like strep throat or skin infections can cause flare-ups.
Stress: Emotional or physical stress can make symptoms worse.
Cold weather: Dry, chilly conditions often trigger flare-ups.
Skin injury: Cuts, scrapes, or sunburn can lead to new psoriasis patches (this is known as the Koebner phenomenon).
Medications: Some blood pressure or mental health medicines can worsen symptoms.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use, and excess weight can increase flare-ups.

At REJUVA Dermatology, we take time to identify your personal triggers and design a treatment plan that helps control symptoms and reduce future flare-ups.

Psoriasis Symptoms and Signs

The symptoms of psoriasis can look different for everyone. Some people notice mild dryness or small scaly spots, while others may have thick, red plaques that cause itching or pain.

Common signs and symptoms include:

Patches of red skin that are slightly elevated and covered with silvery or whitish scales.
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching, burning, or soreness
Nails that appear raised or uneven in texture
Discomfort or reduced flexibility in the joints (seen in some cases of psoriatic arthritis)
Flare-ups that come and go, often triggered by stress, cold weather, or illness

Psoriasis may present in different types, including plaque psoriasis (the most common form), guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis. A proper diagnosis by a dermatologist is key to identifying the type and determining the most effective treatment approach.

Treatments for Psoriasis

At REJUVA Dermatology in Venice, FL, we offer a range of treatment options to help manage psoriasis and restore skin comfort. Our goal is to reduce inflammation, slow the overproduction of skin cells, and relieve itching or soreness. Each treatment plan is tailored to your individual skin needs and lifestyle.

Common psoriasis treatments include:

Topical Treatments
Prescription creams, ointments, or lotions containing ingredients like corticosteroids, vitamin D, or salicylic acid can help ease scaling, redness, and irritation.
Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
This treatment exposes affected skin to controlled amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. It helps slow down the skin cell cycle and can improve the appearance of plaques over time.

Oral Medications
For moderate to severe psoriasis, oral medications may be prescribed to help calm the immune system and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Biologic Treatments
Biologic medications are injections that target specific parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis. They are often recommended when other treatments have not worked well and are highly effective in controlling long-term symptoms.

Lifestyle and Skincare Recommendations

Making small daily changes can also help manage psoriasis. We often recommend:

Using gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
Keeping skin hydrated
Avoiding scratching or picking at patches
Managing stress through relaxation or exercise
Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers

Our experienced team will guide you through every step, helping you find the right mix of treatments to reduce flare-ups and improve your quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is psoriasis contagious?

No, psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through physical contact or close interaction with someone who has it.

Can psoriasis go away on its own?

Psoriasis tends to come and go in cycles. While flare-ups may fade temporarily, ongoing care is usually needed to keep the condition under control.

What can make psoriasis worse?

Triggers such as stress, cold weather, dry air, certain medications, infections, or skin injuries can make symptoms worse. Identifying these triggers is important in managing the condition.

Does diet affect psoriasis?

Yes. A diet incorporating generous amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports the promotion of healthy skin. Some people also find that cutting back on processed foods or alcohol helps reduce flare-ups.

Can psoriasis affect the scalp or nails?

Yes. Scalp psoriasis leads to dry, flaky, and itchy areas on the scalp, while nail psoriasis may result in pitting, discoloration, or the nail lifting away from the nail bed.

How long does it take to see results from treatment?

You may notice improvement within a few weeks, but consistent treatment is key. Some medications or therapies may take a few months to show full results.

Can psoriasis cause other health problems?

Yes. In some cases, psoriasis can lead to psoriatic arthritis, causing joint pain and stiffness. Detecting and treating it early can help prevent lasting joint damage.

Calm and Restore Your Skin with Expert Psoriasis Care

Living with psoriasis can be challenging, but with the right care, you can keep symptoms under control and feel more confident in your skin. At REJUVA Dermatology, our dermatology experts create personalized treatment plans that reduce flare-ups, soothe irritation, and promote healthier skin.

Book your psoriasis consultation today and take the first step toward smoother, clearer, and more comfortable skin.

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