National Psoriasis Foundation Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Education Center
About Psoriasis

Psoriasis on Specific Locations

Psoriasis can show up anywhere—on the eyelids, ears, mouth and lips, skin folds, hands and feet, and nails. The skin at each of these sites is different and requires different treatments. In addition, psoriasis can vary widely among individuals and in its response to treatment. Light therapy or topical treatments are often used when psoriasis is limited to a specific part of the body. However, doctors may prescribe oral or injectable drugs if the psoriasis greatly affects a person’s quality of life. Effective treatments are available, no matter where your psoriasis is located.

Psoriasis on the Face

Facial psoriasisFacial psoriasis most often affects the eyebrows, the skin between the nose and upper lip, the upper forehead and the hairline. You might need a biopsy to confirm that it is psoriasis. Read more about facial psoriasis »


Genital Psoriasis

The most common type of psoriasis in the genital region is inverse psoriasis. There are various regions of the genital area that can be affected by psoriasis. More information about genital psoriasis »

Hands, Feet and Nails

Psoriasis on the hands, feet and nails It is important to treat acute flares of psoriasis on the hands and feet promptly and carefully. In some cases, cracking, blisters and swelling accompany flares. Nail changes occur in up to 50 percent of people with psoriasis and at least 80 percent of people with psoriatic arthritis. Learn more about how to treat psoriasis on hands, feet & nails »


Skin Folds

Inverse psoriasis can occur in skin folds such as the armpits and under the breasts. This form of psoriasis is frequently irritated by rubbing and sweating. Read more about treating psoriasis in skin folds »

Scalp psoriasis

Scalp psoriasisScalp psoriasis can be very mild, with slight, fine scaling. It can also be very severe with thick, crusted plaques covering the entire scalp. Psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline onto the forehead, the back of the neck and around the ears. Learn about treating scalp psoriasis »

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