Stigma about psoriasis may stem from the common and harmful myth that it's infectious or contagious. Psoriasis can really affect your self-confidence because it's something on your skin that everybody can see. If you're having trouble coping with the stigma of psoriasis, it's important to talk to support groups, your care team, or your family and friends.
Heather Summe, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Dr. Summe is the Chief of the Division of Dermatology at Lenox Hill Hospital.
References
National Psoriasis Foundation. (2025). Life with psoriasis.
Donigan J. M., et al. (2015). Psoriasis and herpes simplex virus are highly stigmatizing compared with other common dermatologic conditions: A survey-based study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Pearl, R. L., et al. (2018). Stigmatizing attitudes toward persons with psoriasis among laypersons and medical students. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Zhang, H., et al. (2021). Stigmatization in patients with psoriasis: A mini review. Frontiers in Immunology.
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