Watch out for some daily habits! Dermatologist Adrienne Rencic reveals to the magazine People some of the “unexpected factors” that may be triggering psoriasis attacks on the skin. Know here what you should try to avoid.
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01/09/2026
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Redness, irregular spots on the body and a lot of itching – are the symptoms most frequently described by those with psoriasis.
Although the origin of some types of psoriasis is related to genetic issues and therefore DNA predisposition, dermatologist Adrienne Rencic reveals to People magazine some “unexpected factors” that can also trigger this phenomenon on the skin.
Known for being a chronic condition related to immune system hyperactivity, the expert reveals that psoriasis can even worsen with lifestyle and environmental factors.
Do you want to prevent this problem from arising or getting worse? Then take note of what you must consider.
These are the unexpected factors that can trigger a psoriasis crisis
Stress and anxiety
According to this expert, not all stress or anxiety can have negative motives behind it. Still, even the “positive stress” or anxiety that leads you to expect something you want very much, may be enough to trigger a psoriasis crisis.
Even if it is due to a tide of happiness, “a routine interrupted, insufficient rest, constant pressure” and other factors, according to these doctors may lead to a peak of itching throughout the body.
Poor quality of sleep
Sleep is one of the factors of the lifestyle that can contribute to psoriasis, Rencic finds a connection between them that can result in a “frustrating cycle”, since psoriasis can also “cause itching, burning and discomfort that disturb sleep.”
Rub the skin
Regardless of the origin of the problem, the ideal is to avoid touching the skin, especially if you start showing irregular spots and redness.
When psoriasis makes skin thick and scaly, the tendency is to rub it aggressively, “because it seems a logical solution”. However, this could cause more problems. Exfoliation is not recommended in these situations.
“ Some people use a sponge or rub the skin to try to remove the scale, and this actually causes skin traumas and can aggravate the condition”, says Rencic.
Use the wrong products
According to this expert, during a psoriasis crisis it is common to try to use several products, especially if they do not know what this is about. However, this may be worsening the condition and further irritate the skin.
Alcohol and tobacco
Smoking and drinking alcohol may condition the health of your skin: “These things can contribute as triggers,” he explains.
Still, it clarifies that “an occasional drink will not automatically cause a crisis,” says Rencic. The substances in these products become problematic only when they become part of a daily pattern.
Inadequate feeding
Food rich in sugar, saturated fats and low in fiber can be the starting point for a psoriasis crisis.
Still, this dermatologist clarifies that the restrictions are not synonymous with a diet of quality or less skin problems, on the contrary, it may end up with nutritional deficiencies and hydration.