In people with psoriasis, immune system dysfunction causes inflammatory cells to build up in the middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis. The condition also speeds the growth of skin cells in the epidermis, the outer skin layer.
Typically, skin cells grow and flake off in the span of a month. This process speeds up to just a few days in people with psoriasis. Instead of shedding, skin cells pile up on the skin’s surface, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as raised plaques, scales, swelling, and redness or discoloration.
Even though psoriasis is a skin condition, the inflammation associated with psoriasis affectsTrusted Source the entire body. It can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.
In psoriasis, inflammation is primarily caused by an overactive immune system. Here’s how it works:
1. Immune system malfunction
In psoriasis, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. It treats them as if they were harmful invaders like bacteria or viruses.
2. T-cell activation
Special white blood cells called T-cells become overactive. Instead of protecting the body, they trigger inflammation and send signals to produce more skin cells.
3. Overproduction of skin cells
Due to this immune reaction, skin cells are produced too quickly—within 3–5 days instead of the normal 28 days. These extra skin cells pile up on the surface, forming thick, scaly patches.
4. Release of inflammatory chemicals
The immune system releases cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-17, and IL-23, which are chemicals that cause redness, swelling, and itching. These cytokines maintain and worsen the inflammation.
Common Triggers that Worsen Inflammation in Psoriasis:
Stress
Infections (especially strep throat)
Injury to skin (cuts, sunburns, bug bites)
Certain medications (like beta-blockers, lithium)
Cold, dry weather
Smoking and alcohal
Psoriasis inflammation is caused by an immune system error where T-cells attack healthy skin, leading to rapid skin cell growth and the release of inflammatory chemicals. This results in red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin.
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