Psoriasis
These itchy red patches can affect the skin — from the scalp to genitalia to nails — but the most common areas are the elbows, knees and scalp.
Expert treatment designed around you
Psoriasis is more than dry or irritated skin. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition that can cause uncomfortable plaques, persistent itching, and flare-ups that affect your daily life. Symptoms often come and go, making it important to have a long-term treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Dr. Chynna Steele Johnson, a board-certified dermatologist, and her experienced dermatology team provide personalized care for patients living with psoriasis. After carefully evaluating your skin and symptoms, Dr. Johnson develops an individualized treatment plan focused on reducing flare-ups, relieving discomfort, and helping you maintain healthier skin over time.
With offices in Buckhead and Alpharetta, Steele Dermatology provides trusted medical dermatology care for patients of all ages.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition of the body that affects the skin. Instead of shedding gradually, skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, forming thick, inflamed patches known as plaques.
- On the skin, it presents as red, flaky raised patches that can occur anywhere on the body. It is usually itchy, and sometimes, because people may scratch, the patches may bleed.
- The disease can extend beyond the skin. Another common manifestation is psoriatic arthritis. This is inflammation of the small joints, like in the fingers, wrists and neck.
- People with extensive psoriasis have higher rates of cardiovascular disease and associated conditions.
Psoriasis signs and symptoms
Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but may include:
- Thick, raised plaques
- Silvery-white scales
- Dry, cracked skin
- Itching or burning
- Tender or painful skin
- Scalp flaking
- Nail changes
• Areas of skin that bleed after scratching
Some patients also develop joint pain or stiffness associated with psoriatic arthritis.
Psoriasis treatment, at a glance
Although psoriasis is a lifelong condition, many patients successfully manage their symptoms with consistent care and the right treatment plan.
Depending on your diagnosis and the severity of your condition, Dr. Johnson may recommend:
Prescription Topical Medications
Prescription creams, ointments, or other topical medications may help reduce inflammation, slow excessive skin cell growth, and relieve itching.
Light-Based Therapy
For some patients, carefully supervised light therapy may be an effective option for controlling psoriasis symptoms.
Oral or Injectable Medications
Patients with more widespread or difficult-to-control psoriasis may benefit from prescription medications that target inflammation throughout the body.
Lifestyle Guidance
Daily skincare, trigger avoidance, and proper moisturization often play an important role in long-term psoriasis management. We’ll provide practical recommendations to help support your treatment plan between visits.
Ongoing Follow-Up
Because psoriasis can change over time, regular follow-up appointments allow Dr. Johnson to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Psoriasis FAQs
Psoriasis develops when the immune system mistakenly speeds up the skin’s natural renewal process. Genetics play an important role, but environmental factors often contribute to flare-ups.
Common triggers include:
- Emotional stress
- Illness or infection
- Skin injuries
- Cold, dry weather
- Certain medications
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Understanding your personal triggers can help reduce future flare-ups and improve long-term control of the condition.
No. Psoriasis cannot be spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Flare-ups may be triggered by stress, illness, skin injuries, certain medications, smoking, alcohol, or changes in the weather. Triggers vary from person to person.
It also displays the Koebner effect, which is where you get psoriasis in a scratch or otherwise traumatized area of skin.
Dr. Johnson diagnoses and treats several forms of psoriasis, including:
Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, plaque psoriasis causes raised, well-defined patches covered with silvery-white scales. The plaques may itch, crack, or become painful.
Guttate Psoriasis: Often appearing after a bacterial infection such as strep throat, guttate psoriasis causes numerous small, drop-shaped spots across the trunk and limbs. It is more common in children and young adults.
Inverse Psoriasis: This type develops in skin folds such as the underarms, groin, beneath the breasts, or between skin folds. The affected areas often appear smooth, red, and irritated rather than scaly.
Scalp Psoriasis: Psoriasis affecting the scalp may cause persistent itching, flaking, redness, and thick plaques that can extend beyond the hairline.
Nail Psoriasis: Some patients develop changes in their fingernails or toenails, including pitting, discoloration, thickening, or separation of the nail from the nail bed.
Most cases of psoriasis can be diagnosed through a thorough skin examination.
During your appointment, Dr. Johnson will evaluate the appearance and distribution of your skin changes, review your medical history, and discuss your symptoms and family history. In some situations, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or rule out another skin condition.
An accurate diagnosis helps ensure your treatment plan is appropriate for the specific type of psoriasis you have.
There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but many patients experience significant improvement with personalized treatment and ongoing management.
No. Although both conditions can cause red, itchy skin, psoriasis and eczema have different underlying causes and often require different treatment approaches.
Yes. Some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which can cause joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. Let Dr. Johnson know if you’re experiencing joint symptoms.
Schedule a psoriasis consultation at Steele
Living with psoriasis doesn’t have to mean living with constant discomfort. If you’re experiencing recurring plaques, itching, or flare-ups, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson and the Steele Dermatology team. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on healthier skin and long-term management at our Buckhead or Alpharetta office.
Dr. Johnson takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to psoriasis care. Every treatment recommendation is based on a comprehensive evaluation, your medical history, and your treatment goals. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have managed psoriasis for years, our team is committed to helping you find an approach that supports healthier skin and lasting confidence.
Request an appointment
Schedule online, call (770) 464-6000 or text us, and one of our specialists will assist you.
