What Causes Psoriasis? Understanding Triggers, Genetics and Inflammation

FAST ANSWER

Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune response that speeds up skin cell production and leads to inflammation. Genetics, immune system activity, stress, infections, skin injuries, and environmental triggers can all contribute to psoriasis flare-ups.

Psoriasis is not caused by poor hygiene and it is not contagious.

This guide explains:

• what causes psoriasis
• why flare-ups happen
• how genetics and the immune system are involved
• common psoriasis triggers
• and how supportive skin care may help protect the skin barrier

For a complete overview of the condition, visit our Psoriasis Hub.

Image used under license from DermNet

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops when the immune system becomes overactive and speeds up the skin renewal process.

Normally, skin cells renew gradually over around 28–30 days.

With psoriasis, this process can happen in just a few days.

As a result:

• skin cells build up too quickly
• thickened plaques form
• redness and scaling appear
• inflammation increases

This is why psoriasis often causes:

• dry patches
• scaling
• itching
• cracking
• soreness

To learn more about how psoriasis appears on the skin, visit Psoriasis Symptoms.

Is Psoriasis an Autoimmune Condition?

Psoriasis is considered an immune-mediated inflammatory condition.

This means the immune system mistakenly triggers inflammation within the skin.

Inflammation causes:

• rapid skin turnover
• redness
• irritation
• thickened skin plaques

Psoriasis is linked to immune system pathways involving inflammatory cells and signals within the body.

This is also why psoriasis can sometimes affect:

• joints
• nails
• tendons
• other areas beyond the skin

Does Psoriasis Run in Families?

Genetics play a major role in psoriasis.

Many people with psoriasis have:

• a parent with psoriasis
• a sibling with psoriasis
• a family history of inflammatory skin conditions

However, not everyone with a family history develops psoriasis.

And some people develop psoriasis without any known family history at all.

Genes may increase susceptibility, but environmental triggers often influence whether symptoms actually appear.

Common Psoriasis Triggers

While genetics and immune activity create the underlying condition, certain triggers can worsen psoriasis or cause flare-ups.

Common psoriasis triggers include:

• stress
• illness or infections
• cold weather
• dry air
• skin injuries
• smoking
• alcohol
• certain medications

For many people, symptoms worsen during periods of emotional or physical stress.

To learn more about worsening symptoms and flare-ups, see Psoriasis Triggers & Flare-Ups.

Can Stress Cause Psoriasis?

Stress does not directly “cause” psoriasis.
However, it is one of the most recognised flare-up triggers.

Stress can increase inflammation within the body.
This may worsen:

• itching
• redness
• scaling
• flare frequency

Unfortunately, psoriasis itself can also increase stress and anxiety.

This creates a difficult cycle where:

• stress worsens psoriasis
• psoriasis worsens emotional wellbeing
• symptoms flare again

Managing stress levels can sometimes help reduce flare frequency over time.

Can Weather Affect Psoriasis?

Yes.

Cold weather and dry air commonly worsen psoriasis symptoms.

This happens because:

• moisture leaves the skin more easily
• the skin barrier becomes weaker
• irritation increases
• dryness becomes more severe

Some people notice improvement during warmer months with moderate sunlight exposure.

Others find heat and sweating aggravate symptoms.

Triggers can vary greatly from person to person.

Can Skin Injuries Trigger Psoriasis?

Yes.

Cuts, scratches, friction, or skin trauma can sometimes trigger psoriasis patches in affected individuals.

This is known as the Koebner phenomenon.

Examples include:

• shaving irritation
• scratches
• burns
• tight clothing friction
• pressure on the skin

Protecting the skin barrier gently can help reduce unnecessary irritation.

Why the Skin Barrier Matters in Psoriasis

Psoriasis weakens and disrupts the skin barrier.

When the skin barrier becomes damaged:

• moisture escapes more easily
• irritation increases
• skin becomes more reactive
• flare-ups may feel worse

This is why many people with psoriasis benefit from:

• fragrance-free skin care
• gentle cleansing
• regular moisturising
• avoiding harsh exfoliation

Supportive skin care cannot cure psoriasis.
However, it may help improve comfort and reduce dryness during flare-ups.

You can also explore our guide to Psoriasis Treatment for supportive skin-care approaches.

Psoriasis and Inflammation Throughout the Body

Psoriasis is now understood as more than just a skin condition.

Inflammation linked to psoriasis may also affect:

• joints
• nails
• connective tissues
• overall wellbeing

This is why some people develop:

• psoriatic arthritis
• joint stiffness
• swelling
• fatigue

If you experience joint symptoms alongside psoriasis, medical assessment is important.

You can also explore the relationship between psoriasis and eczema in our guide to Psoriasis vs Eczema.

Supporting Psoriasis-Prone Skin

At Bragan Skincare, we focus on supporting sensitive and psoriasis-prone skin with gentle, fragrance-free products designed to avoid unnecessary irritation.

Many people with psoriasis prefer:

• fragrance-free moisturisers
• non-stripping cleansers
• barrier-supportive skin care
• gentle scalp products

Explore our Psoriasis Collection for supportive skin-care options designed for reactive and easily irritated skin.

If scalp irritation is a major concern, you can also explore our Sensitive Scalp Collection.

Final Thoughts

Psoriasis develops through a combination of:

• immune system activity
• genetics
• inflammation
• environmental triggers

While there is no cure, understanding what causes psoriasis can help people:

• recognise flare triggers
• support the skin barrier
• manage symptoms more effectively
• make informed skin-care choices

For a complete overview of psoriasis symptoms, treatment, flare-ups, and supportive skin care, visit our Psoriasis Hub.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis Causes

Can stress cause psoriasis flare-ups?

Yes. Stress is one of the most common psoriasis triggers. Emotional stress can increase inflammation within the body and may worsen itching, scaling, redness, and flare-ups.

Is psoriasis genetic?

Psoriasis often runs in families. Many people with psoriasis have a parent or close relative with the condition, although not everyone with a family history develops symptoms.

Can cold weather make psoriasis worse?

Yes. Cold weather and dry air can weaken the skin barrier and increase dryness, irritation, and scaling. Many people notice worsening symptoms during winter months.

Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot catch psoriasis from another person and you cannot spread it through touch or contact.

What triggers psoriasis symptoms?

Common psoriasis triggers include stress, infections, illness, skin injuries, smoking, alcohol, cold weather, and certain medications. Triggers vary from person to person.