Is Psoriasis Hereditary?

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with psoriasis, you might be wondering: “Is this genetic?” The answer is: it could be, but not always.

Psoriasis does have a genetic component, but that doesn’t mean everyone with a family history will develop it. Even people with no family history can get psoriasis if they’re exposed to specific triggers.

A Quick Look at Psoriasis Symptoms

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply too quickly. The result? Thick, red patches of skin with silvery scales that may itch or hurt. It commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, hands, or feet.

Psoriasis can also affect the nails at times. Signs include pitting (minor dents), thickened nails, or nails detaching from the nail bed.

The Role of Genetics: How Big Is the Risk?

Here are some key facts:

• If one parent has psoriasis, your risk of developing the condition is approximately 10%.
• If both parents have it, your risk increases to 50%.

So yes, psoriasis can be inherited, but it’s not guaranteed. Many people who carry psoriasis-related genes never develop any symptoms of the condition.

Why? Because having the gene isn’t enough. Psoriasis often needs an environmental trigger to become active.

Environmental Triggers That Can Activate Psoriasis Genes

In addition to family history, the following factors can trigger psoriasis, even if you’ve never had symptoms before:

1. Hormonal Changes
   Fluctuating hormone levels can impact the immune system and contribute to the development of psoriasis. Typical phases include puberty, pregnancy (especially postpartum), and menopause.
2. Stress
   Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers for psoriasis flare-ups. Chronic or intense stress can cause the immune system to overreact.
3. Infections
   Certain infections, particularly strep throat, are associated with specific types of psoriasis, especially in children and teenagers.
4. Skin Trauma
   The Koebner phenomenon refers to the appearance of psoriasis in areas where the skin has been injured, like from a scratch, insect bite, or sunburn.
5. Weight and Metabolic Syndrome
   Obesity and metabolic syndrome (a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and excess body fat) increase the risk of developing psoriasis and can worsen existing symptoms. People with psoriasis are twice as likely to have metabolic syndrome compared to the general population.
6. Smoking & Alcohol
   Both smoking and heavy alcohol use are associated with the onset and worsening of psoriasis symptoms.

Can Psoriasis Be Prevented?

Just because you have a family history of psoriasis doesn’t mean you’re destined to develop it. You can lower your risk or manage symptoms by:

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Managing stress effectively
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding skin trauma
• Not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption

Psoriasis does have a genetic link, but without environmental triggers, many people with the gene may never show symptoms.

On the other hand, those with no family history can still develop psoriasis if exposed to the right combination of risk factors.

That’s why it’s so essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay alert to early signs, especially if you’re in a higher-risk group.

If you have questions about psoriasis or suspect you may have it, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist!

References

Healthline. Accessed in 2025. Is Psoriasis Hereditary?

WebMD. Accessed in 2025. Your Genes and Psoriasis

Verywell Health. Accessed in 2025. Is Psoriasis Hereditary?