You Asked, We Answered: Your Top Questions About Psoriasis

Why Can Treatments That Used to Work Eventually Stop Working?

Even then, once you find a treatment that works, your body can develop a resistance to it over time, causing that treatment to lose its effectiveness, explains Shira Wieder, MD, a dermatologist at WestDerm Skin and Laser Center, in New York.

“[Patients] may start seeing some plaques, and some people don’t mind: They feel comfortable on that medicine, and they want to stay on it,” says Dr. Wieder. “But other people want to be completely clear.”

In that case, it’s important to open up to your doctor to discuss your treatment goals and the possibility of switching to a new class of drugs. “You [can] achieve clearance again, but sometimes it’s a little bit of trial and error,” adds Wieder.

“It’s all about having a great relationship with your dermatologist and having those conversations,” emphasizes Marlene Medina, community development manager at the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF).

Will Psoriasis Ever Go Away?

While there’s currently no cure for psoriasis, options available in today’s treatment landscape can help clear your skin better than ever before.

And every new medication that’s approved seems to offer even more promise for people with psoriasis. “Every time one of these new medications comes out, we’re getting longer remissions and clearer skin,” emphasizes Wieder. “We’re talking about even coming off medicines and going for longer periods of time without psoriasis.”

Meanwhile, research efforts to find a cure continue. “I am hopeful that someday we’ll have something that gives us really long remissions and helps our patients stay clear for long periods of time,” Wieder says.

Can Seeing a Therapist Help?

One solution? Seek emotional support from a professional. “I recommend seeing a therapist or psychiatrist. There are actually some psychologists who specialize in patients who have skin diseases,” says Wieder. That can be especially helpful when you have a visible condition, such as psoriasis, and are dealing with issues like people staring at your skin or judging you based on your appearance.

If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, ask your doctor to refer you to a mental health professional who can help.

How Can I Connect With Other People Who Have Psoriasis?

When it comes to life with psoriasis, Jeanette Grego, a psoriasis patient advocate, has had moments when she’s felt isolated. “I knew I wasn’t alone, but I still felt alone, because I felt I know no one who’s gone through what I’m going through; I need to find people who are like me.”

Not sure where to look? “There are many ways that you can connect,” emphasizes Medina. “Team NPF has 11 regions across the United States where we put together fundraising events and invite all psoriasis patients to come out.” These events provide an opportunity to connect in person with people who understand what you’re going through and to share stories and strategies for overcoming obstacles you face when you’re living with psoriasis, she explains.

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