Psoriasis Treatment in Tampa & Dade City, FL

Normally, the outer layer of skin, which consists of keratinocytes, is replaced about once a month. In someone who has psoriasis, this process occurs more quickly, and the keratinocytes rapidly reach the skin's surface before they can be properly incorporated into surrounding tissue or even fully mature. As a result, the skin flakes off. This accelerated process is called parakeratosis.

Many skin diseases can accompany psoriasis; they include fungal and yeast infections, scabies, cutaneous (skin) lymphoma, and cutaneous manifestations of syphilis. Although they share many symptoms, psoriasis and eczema are rarely co-occurring. And psoriasis may actually reduce a person's risk of eczema, perhaps because the immune system responds differently to the two conditions.

Psoriasis itself is only associated with an increased risk of infection when skin plaques or pustules are invaded by the harmful bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. The risk of infection is greater when the skin's surface is broken by excessive scratching. Proper hygiene, antibacterial products, and other preventive measures may be recommended to reduce the risk of infection.

Temporary hair loss may result from removing thick scalp scales that trap hair or from certain medications, such as salicylic acid.

Low humidity leads to dry, itchy skin in the winter, often prompting scratching, picking, and scrubbing, and the formation of new lesions. To prevent this, using a moisturizer is recommended, as is patting the skin dry rather than rubbing it after bathing.

Yes. This condition is known as Koebner's phenomenon. Psoriasis patients with Koebner's phenomenon can develop a psoriatic lesion at the site of a skin injury or in the same place as another skin condition. About 10 percent of psoriasis patients develop a psoriatic lesion each time the skin is injured. Lesions are especially likely to form at an injury site when psoriasis is active.

Natural sunlight in moderation can lessen the effects of psoriasis. In fact, psoriasis is sometimes treated using ultraviolet light.

Although there is currently no cure, many cases of psoriasis can be successfully treated, with outbreaks not occurring for months or years.

Treatment for psoriasis focuses on clearing the skin of current symptoms. Treatments for the root cause of psoriasis aim to interrupt the abnormal cycle that drives increased skin cell production. This can be achieved through topical treatment, oral medication, light therapies, or a combination of the three.

Patients with psoriasis can help relieve symptoms by keeping the skin clean and moisturized, covering the affected areas while sleeping, and avoiding catalysts such as stress, smoking, and alcohol. By adhering to a doctor's treatment plan and following the recommended home remedies, effective relief from psoriasis is possible.

Psoriasis is classified based on the extent of skin involvement and its impact on daily life. Mild psoriasis covers less than 3% of the body, moderate affects 3-10%, and severe covers more than 10% or significantly disrupts quality of life.

Ask about the best treatment options for your symptoms, possible side effects, how long treatments take to work, and what to do if a treatment isn't effective. You should also ask about managing triggers and preventing flare-ups.

Yes, psoriasis can lead to eye conditions such as uveitis, which can cause redness, pain, and vision problems. It is important to report any eye discomfort to your doctor for prompt evaluation and treatment.

Climate can significantly affect psoriasis. Cold, dry weather may worsen symptoms, while moderate sunlight and humidity can often improve them. However, too much sun can lead to sunburn, which may trigger flare-ups.

Yes, genetics can play a role in psoriasis. If one or both parents have psoriasis, the likelihood of developing it increases, but environmental factors also contribute.

Psoriasis causes thick, raised patches of red skin with silvery scales, while eczema often causes itchy, red, inflamed skin without scales. Eczema is more commonly linked to allergies, while psoriasis is an autoimmune condition.

Yes. Psoriasis involves immune system activity that can raise inflammation throughout the body. When inflammation is elevated, many people experience fatigue, sluggishness, or low energy. 

In some cases, related conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, anemia, or depression may further contribute to fatigue. Managing symptoms, improving sleep routines, and addressing underlying inflammation with medical treatment can often help patients regain steadier energy levels throughout the day.

Scalp psoriasis and dandruff can look similar, but they are not the same. Dandruff usually involves oily flakes caused by irritation or yeast on the scalp. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an immune-driven condition that creates thicker, well-defined plaques covered by silvery scales. 

Psoriasis patches may extend beyond the hairline, feel sore, or lead to temporary hair shedding when scales loosen. Scalp psoriasis also, in many cases, requires prescription treatments, medicated shampoos, or light-based therapies. Dandruff generally responds to over-the-counter shampoos.

A dermatologist can clearly distinguish between the two and recommend the most helpful approach.

Studies, including one published by Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, show that psoriasis, particularly moderate-to-severe forms, is associated with a higher cardiovascular risk. The condition involves ongoing inflammation that can influence blood vessels and contribute to plaque buildup over time. People with psoriasis may also be more likely to have related risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or metabolic syndrome.

Treating psoriasis and maintaining regular medical checkups can support long-term health by helping manage inflammation. Lifestyle habits such as nutritious eating, regular activity, and limiting alcohol or smoking may further support heart health in individuals with psoriasis.

Yes. Weight can influence psoriasis symptoms because excess body fat releases inflammatory chemicals that may worsen flare-ups. Skin folds may also trap moisture and friction, which can aggravate certain types of psoriasis, such as inverse psoriasis.

Many patients report improvement when they reach a healthier weight, though results vary from person to person. Even modest changes may help reduce triggers and improve treatment response.

A balanced eating plan and regular activity can support both general wellness and symptom control. Working with a medical provider can also help patients make gradual, sustainable changes that support clearer skin.

Most people begin noticing changes within the first few weeks of starting a biologic, but the full benefit often develops over several months. The timeline depends on the specific medication, dosage, and how active the condition is at the start.

Many patients see reduced redness, scaling, and itching early on, followed by steady clearing of plaques. Regular follow-ups allow the provider to monitor progress and make adjustments if needed. Even when improvements take time, biologics can offer long-term symptom relief for many individuals.

Hormonal shifts can influence psoriasis in some people. Periods of change — including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause — may alter immune activity or skin behavior, leading to either improvement or flare-ups.

Some patients notice increased symptoms around menstrual cycles due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. Pregnancy may bring temporary relief for some, while others experience worsening symptoms. After childbirth, flare-ups can reappear as hormone levels return to baseline.

Because responses vary widely, it's helpful to track symptoms and discuss any patterns with a dermatologist, who can adjust treatment during times of hormonal change.