Psoriasis Triggers: Everyday Factors That Can Cause Flare-Ups
Stress and Strong Emotions
Stress is a big one. When you experience stress – whether it’s a major life event or daily anxiety – your body releases chemicals that can ramp up inflammation. Psoriasis is fundamentally an inflammatory condition, so it’s highly sensitive to stress levels. Unfortunately, psoriasis flares themselves can create more stress, creating a vicious cycle. Finding ways to manage stress – through relaxation techniques, exercise, adequate sleep, or counselling – can help break this cycle.
Illness and Infections
Infections can trigger psoriasis flares because they activate your immune system broadly. One notorious example is strep throat, which can trigger guttate psoriasis, especially in children and young adults. Even other infections – ear infections, bronchitis, tonsillitis, the flu – have been linked to flare-ups. Preventing infections where possible and treating them promptly can help reduce flares.
Skin Injury (Koebner Phenomenon)
A cut, scrape, or burn can trigger psoriasis in that exact area. This is known as the Koebner phenomenon. Everyday injuries like shaving nicks, sunburn, scratches, or even friction from clothing tags can set off lesions in some people. Protecting your skin, using sunscreen, and treating wounds promptly can reduce the risk.
Weather and Climate
Cold, dry weather is a common trigger. Indoor heating lowers humidity, and cold winds can dry the skin, leading to more redness and flaking. Moderate sunlight can help some people, but sunburn can be a trigger. Planning ahead with moisturisers, humidifiers, and gentle skin care in your “problem seasons” can make a big difference.
Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking can increase inflammation and is linked to worse psoriasis severity and more frequent flares. Alcohol, particularly heavy drinking, has also been linked to more flare-ups and can complicate treatment. Moderation and quitting smoking are powerful steps for many people.
Medications as Triggers
Some medications can worsen psoriasis, including beta-blockers, lithium, and certain antimalarial drugs. Steroids can also cause rebound flares if stopped abruptly. Always tell healthcare providers you have psoriasis before starting new medication and never stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
Diet and Food Triggers
There isn’t a universal “psoriasis diet,” but some people notice certain foods make flares worse. Commonly suspected triggers include excessive sugar, dairy, gluten (especially if you’re sensitive), and high-fat red meats. A symptom diary can help identify patterns. A balanced, anti-inflammatory eating style can also support overall health and weight management, which may improve psoriasis for some.
Tracking and Managing Your Triggers
The best strategy is to become a detective about your own condition. Note flares and what was happening around that time – illness, stress, weather, diet changes, medications, or injuries. Patterns often emerge over time, and this helps you plan prevention strategies.
Conclusion: Empowering Yourself Against Flare-Ups
Living with psoriasis can be frustrating, but you’re not powerless. By identifying triggers, protecting your skin, and working closely with your dermatologist, many people can reduce flare frequency and improve control. Even when you can’t avoid every trigger, awareness helps you prepare and respond sooner.
Sources:
- National Psoriasis Foundation – Causes and Triggers (Last updated January 2025)
- Cleveland Clinic (Health Essentials) – Common Triggers Likely Cause Your Psoriasis Flare-Ups (April 12, 2024)
- UCLA Health – Ask the Doctors: How can I limit psoriasis flare-ups? (Feb 28, 2018)
- American Academy of Dermatology – Are triggers causing your psoriasis flare-ups?
- Mayo Clinic – Psoriasis: Symptoms and Causes
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