What Triggers Psoriasis Flare-Ups?

If you’re living with psoriasis, you know how unpredictable flare-ups can feel. One week, your skin is calm and manageable. The next,

itchy, inflamed patches show up without warning. While psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition, certain triggers can cause symptoms to worsen unexpectedly.

Understanding what causes psoriasis to flare up can give you a better sense of control. Whether it’s related to stress, illness, changes in weather, or something else entirely, identifying your personal triggers is a key step in managing flare-ups more effectively.

Common Psoriasis Triggers

While not every trigger affects everyone the same way, there are some well-known patterns among people with psoriasis. Below are some of the most common psoriasis flare-up causes, including a few you might not expect.

Stress and Mental Health

Emotional stress is one of the most widely reported psoriasis flare-up triggers. When the body is under stress, it releases inflammatory chemicals like cortisol, which can interfere with the immune system and worsen skin symptoms.

Even positive stress, such as moving to a new city or starting a new job, can spark a reaction. For some, anxiety and depression can also influence flare severity. Managing a psoriasis stress trigger might involve more than just skincare; it may require building habits like mindfulness, therapy, or regular physical activity to support your mental health.

Cold or Dry Weather

Temperature and humidity levels can have a big impact on your skin. During colder months, dry air and indoor heating can strip moisture from the skin, making it more prone to flaking, itching, and irritation. This connection between psoriasis and weather means that flare-ups often become more frequent or intense in winter.

Layering up, using a humidifier, and applying a rich, dermatologist-approved moisturizer can help protect your skin barrier when the temperature drops.

Infections and Illness

When your immune system is busy fighting off an infection, it can also trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms. Throat infections, colds, the flu, and even COVID-19 have been linked to flare-ups in some individuals.

One well-known example is guttate psoriasis, which can appear after a strep throat infection, especially in children and young adults. Keeping up with regular handwashing, vaccinations, and good hygiene habits can help reduce your risk of illness-related flares.

Skin Injuries or Scratching

Something as simple as a scratch, sunburn, or bug bite can lead to new psoriasis plaques. This reaction is known as the Koebner phenomenon, and it’s especially common in people with more sensitive skin.

Shaving too aggressively, picking at the skin, or even getting a tattoo can sometimes result in a flare. If you’ve noticed new patches forming around areas of injury, this may be one of your primary psoriasis flare-up triggers.

Certain Medications

Some prescription drugs can contribute to flare-ups or make psoriasis harder to manage. These may include:

• Beta blockers (used for high blood pressure)
• Lithium (used to treat bipolar disorder)
• Certain anti-malarials
• Interferons or other immune-altering drugs

If you’ve started a new medication and noticed a change in your symptoms, talk to your prescribing doctor. Do not stop any medication without medical guidance, but be sure to bring up psoriasis concerns when discussing treatment options.

How to Reduce Flare-Ups

While you may not be able to eliminate every trigger, small daily changes can help reduce the frequency and severity of flares. These strategies can make a meaningful difference while dealing with plaque psoriasis:

• Keep your skin well-moisturized with fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended products
• Use gentle soaps and avoid long, hot showers that can dry out your skin
• Incorporate stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or simply getting more sleep
• Follow a consistent skincare routine, especially during seasonal changes
• Stick to your treatment plan, even when symptoms improve

When to Talk to a Dermatology Provider

Even if you’re doing everything right, psoriasis can still flare up. That’s why it’s helpful to have a dermatologist in your corner who can tailor your treatment to your specific needs. It may be time to reach out if:

• Your flare-ups are becoming more frequent or severe
• Over-the-counter treatments are no longer effective
• Your symptoms are affecting your sleep, work, or daily activities
• You’re unsure whether a new issue is psoriasis-related

A provider can review your medications, identify potential triggers, and recommend targeted treatments. These might include topical corticosteroids, light therapy, or systemic medications, depending on the severity of your condition.

Psoriasis Care at Schweiger Dermatology Group

If you’re dealing with persistent flare-ups or trying to better understand your psoriasis triggers, the dermatologists and advanced practitioners at Schweiger Dermatology Group are here to help. Our team offers expert diagnosis, advanced treatments, and personalized care plans to help you manage symptoms and live more comfortably with psoriasis. Book online or call 844-DERM-DOC to schedule an appointment today.