If you have psoriasis, you know the struggle it takes to confront people. Unfortunately, several skin conditions are contagious that others might contract.
However, in the case of psoriasis, you shouldn’t be concerned as it isn’t contagious and cannot spread to other people or other parts of your body.
Ever since I’ve got psoriasis, I read everything about it on the Internet to keep myself and others educated about the skin condition. However, a few myths and misinformation related to psoriasis have caught me off-guard lately, and I thought I should bust the myth right away.
But first, please know that psoriasis can affect any individual at any age. The symptoms of psoriasis might not be alarming, but recurring and traumatizing. Also, there are various types of psoriasis, which I’ve already covered in my previous articles.
The most common types of psoriasis are:
Now, let’s get back to the most famous psoriasis myth.
Myth: Psoriasis can spread by irritating the affected areas.
Like I said before, psoriasis isn’t contagious or infectious. However, it can spread to other parts of your own body if you already have it or if it’s left untreated.
Over time, your psoriasis can get much worse and spread to various parts of your body, causing flare-ups that are uncomfortable and disturbing.
Even though people believe that these flare-ups are a result of irritating the already affected areas, medical studies say otherwise.
Myth Busted: Scratching Itchy psoriasis does not cause it to spread.
But why and how does it spread anyway?
Psoriasis is often triggered by some external (weather) and internal (psychological) factors that may cause the flare-ups to spread to other parts of your body.
Furthermore, there’s a special condition associated with psoriasis that is called the Koebner phenomenon, in which the skin develops lesions over the traumatized areas. The trauma can be a cut, bruise, insect bite, or a burn.
Koebner Phenomenon
Koebner Phenomenon is named after the renowned dermatologist Heinrich Koebner.
When my dermatologist first introduced me to this condition, he referred to it as an isomorphic response.
It is nothing but the development of lesions in the traumatized but normal skin. Also, these lesions can develop on the healthy, non-psoriatic skin that might urge you to believe that psoriasis can spread by irritating your skin.
Medical experts suggest that 25% of people with psoriasis may experience the Koebner phenomenon. In severe cases, the Koebner phenomenon can lead to psoriatic arthritis.
Causes of Koebner Phenomenon
The causes of the Koebner phenomenon can be any physical or internal trauma that disturbs your skin such as,
1. Weather conditions.
2. Getting a tattoo.
3. Shaving your legs or hands.
4. Sunburn.
5. Allergic reactions or skin irritations.
6. The use of certain chemicals.
Symptoms of Koebner Phenomenon
The symptoms of Koebner Phenomenon are pretty much like psoriasis’ that’s why many patients cannot identify this condition.
The symptoms include.
1. Red, bumpy lesions.
2. Fluid-filled blisters.
3. Silvery, scaly skin.
4. Severe itching and inflammation.
So, if you’re wondering what’s causing insane dermatitis flare-ups, it’s definitely the environmental or psychological triggers that are worsening your skin condition.
You can always keep the symptoms of psoriasis at bay by following a proper routine.
I always emphasize the need to change your lifestyle to treat eczema and psoriasis.
Tips to Avoid Triggers:
1. Keep your skin moisturized and well-nourished by using emollients and topical ointments that your dermatologist recommends.
2. In case of severe itching, wash your skin with lukewarm water and medicated soap thoroughly. Avoid rubbing your skin with abrasive products.
3. Always wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing to protect your body from getting sunburn.
4. Avoid the direct and excessive use of chemical products that trigger your skin and cause flare-ups.
Treatment of Koebner Phenomenon
The treatment of the Koebner Phenomenon follows psoriasis treatment. If you’re getting continuous flare-ups, I’d suggest using ointments that are reviewed as the best psoriasis cream over the counter.
I’ve used them personally, and I am 100% positive that they help in soothing your skin and curing the symptoms successfully.
However, depending on the severity of your conditions, your doctor might prescribe you pills to work on your immune system. Therefore, it is imperative to consult your dermatologist in case of any abnormal flare-ups or lesions.
Final Thoughts
No, psoriasis cannot spread by irritating the affected areas. However, some environmental and psychological factors might trigger the condition and may cause flare-ups on traumatized but otherwise normal skin.
Furthermore, constant scratching and itching might delay the healing process of your skin. Therefore, it is never okay to scratch your psoriatic skin.
Dermatologists recommend using lukewarm water and medicated soap on the irritated and affected areas to ease the symptoms, and I 100% agree with it. I’ve even written a post on best psoriasis cream reviews, which are medicated, nonsteroid, and provide promising results within a few weeks.
3 of my personal favorite psoriasis products are:
However, I’d suggest that you consult your dermatologist before applying anything to your skin as every skin is different, and every condition demands special treatment.