Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and an increased production of skin cells. This causes patches of thick, scaly skin that can be visible to other people. Although the disease is not contagious, other people still might make assumptions about it if they see plaques on your skin.

It can be hard to share information about psoriasis with other people, particularly when you prefer that no one looks at your plaques. But talking about the condition can be beneficial, not only for giving you some peace of mind, but also in helping others understand it.

“The biggest challenge I’ve had during my 10 years of psoriasis is to be open about my situation with my others,” one MyPsoriasisTeam member said. “I always tried to hide my condition, and was afraid that other people would think it was contagious. I wish that one day I will get the courage to open up and say, ‘Yes, I have psoriasis and I am living my life no matter what you think, and if you are a true friend of mine, you'd say the same.’”

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Remember that you are not obligated to talk about psoriasis with other people. It’s completely your choice to discuss the condition or not, depending on your comfort level. If you do choose to spark a conversation about psoriasis, consider the following tips that MyPsoriasisTeam members have shared.

Explain the Condition in Simple Terms

If other people are curious about your psoriasis, you can let them know that you have an overactive immune system, which leads to an accelerated production of skin cells that build up, creating the plaques on your skin.

Tell Them That Psoriasis Is Not Contagious

You can let others know that psoriasis is not contagious. Other people cannot catch it by touching you, even if you are in a flare state with visible symptoms.

Share Your Triggers

In some cases, it can be helpful to share what (if anything) causes your psoriasis to flare so other people can avoid introducing those triggers.

Dispel the Myths

Let people know that psoriasis is not caused by a lack of hygiene, and cannot simply be cured with aloe or positivity.

Be Honest if You’re Having a Bad Day

If you try and “power through” a tough day by putting on a brave face, you could be minimizing your condition in the eyes of others. Let your loved ones know if you’re having a bad day.

Meet Your Team

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for people with psoriatic disease and their loved ones. Here, more than 94,000 members from across the globe come together to ask questions, share stories, and find support from others who understand life with psoriasis.