This Common Skin Condition on Your Hands May Be More Than Just Dry Skin

Although the exact cause isn’t fully understood, genetics and the immune system both play important roles. People with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition. Certain triggers—including stress, skin injuries, infections, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and some medications—can also cause flare-ups or make symptoms worse. For many people, the disease comes and goes in cycles, with periods of improvement followed by sudden worsening.

Because several skin disorders can look similar, doctors usually diagnose psoriasis through a physical examination and medical history. Occasionally, a small skin biopsy may be recommended if the diagnosis is uncertain. Distinguishing psoriasis from fungal infections, allergic reactions, eczema, or contact dermatitis is important because each condition requires a different treatment approach.

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases often improve with medicated creams containing corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or other anti-inflammatory ingredients. Thick moisturizers can help reduce cracking and restore the skin barrier. For more severe or widespread psoriasis, dermatologists may recommend light therapy or systemic medications that target the overactive immune response responsible for the disease.