What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis, commonly referred to as “psoriasis vulgaris” or “scaly skin disease,” is generally associated with multiple underlying causes, including impaired skin barrier function, psychological and emotional disturbances, seborrheic dermatitis, lichen planus, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Patients may select appropriate interventions—such as general supportive care, pharmacotherapy, or surgical treatment—based on their individual clinical presentation. A detailed analysis follows:

1. Impaired Skin Barrier

Dryness and trauma to the skin compromise the integrity of the epidermal protective layer, allowing external irritants to penetrate and trigger abnormal keratinocyte proliferation. Daily moisturization, prevention of skin injury, and avoidance of harsh cleansers and skincare products are recommended.

2. Psychological and Emotional Disturbances

Chronic anxiety and sleep deprivation disrupt endocrine and immune regulation, diminishing cutaneous defense mechanisms and leading to aberrant skin metabolism. Maintaining regular sleep-wake cycles, engaging in physical activity, and expressing emotions openly can help stabilize mood and support skin health.

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Abnormal sebum production on the scalp and face triggers inflammatory responses; persistent inflammation may induce pathological changes in the stratum corneum, resulting in psoriatic lesions. Under medical supervision, antihistamines such as ebastine tablets, rupatadine tablets, or acrivastine capsules may be prescribed. Affected areas should be kept clean and dry, and a light, low-fat diet is advised.

4. Lichen Planus

This is an immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by dermal infiltration of inflammatory cells, disruption of cutaneous immune homeostasis, and subsequent induction of psoriatic flares. Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents—including tripterygium glycosides tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, and hydroxychloroquine tablets—may be prescribed per physician guidance. Scratching should be avoided to prevent secondary infection and lesion exacerbation.

5. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

As a systemic autoimmune disease, SLE causes widespread dysregulation of immune function, leading to chronic damage of skin and mucosal tissues and contributing to refractory psoriasis. Immunosuppressants such as mycophenolate mofetil capsules, cyclosporine soft capsules, and methotrexate tablets may be administered under medical supervision. In cases of severe, localized skin involvement, epidermal grafting may be considered.

In daily life, patients should prioritize skin barrier maintenance, adhere to consistent sleep schedules, cultivate emotional well-being, actively manage coexisting dermatological and immune-related conditions, undergo routine dermatologic screening, and avoid known triggers of cutaneous pathology.