Will Psoriasis Get Worse With Age?​

Established in 2008, Derrow Dermatology is committed to providing the highest standard of dermatological care in a convenient, state-of-the-art setting to patients of all ages.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people, but its progression over time remains a concern for many. While some individuals experience stable symptoms, others notice worsening flare-ups as they age. This raises an important question: Will psoriasis get worse with age? The answer is not straightforward, as multiple factors—including immune system changes, lifestyle habits, and overall health—can influence how psoriasis evolves over the years.

Understanding how psoriasis changes with age is key to finding the right treatments and lifestyle strategies. In this article, we explore the potential ways psoriasis may progress, common triggers for older adults, and the most effective treatments to help manage symptoms at any stage of life.

 

How Psoriasis Progresses Over Time

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, but its severity and presentation can change over time due to a combination of internal and external factors. While some individuals may experience mild symptoms for years, others may notice an increase in flare-ups or more persistent plaques as they age. The immune system plays a critical role in this progression. As the body ages, immune function shifts, sometimes leading to heightened inflammatory responses that can trigger more frequent or severe psoriasis outbreaks. On the other hand, some people experience a natural decline in immune activity, which may lead to a reduction in psoriasis symptoms.

External factors also contribute to how psoriasis develops over time. Stress levels, hormonal changes, and overall health conditions such as metabolic syndrome or diabetes can exacerbate symptoms. Lifestyle habits, including diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking, can also influence disease progression. Additionally, long-term use of certain medications, including beta-blockers and some arthritis treatments, has been linked to psoriasis flares in older adults.

For many, psoriasis follows an unpredictable course, with periods of remission followed by sudden flare-ups. The location of psoriasis plaques may shift, with some individuals developing psoriasis in new areas, such as the hands, feet, or scalp, while others experience more widespread patches. Recognizing these changes and identifying triggers early can help in adjusting treatment approaches and improving long-term management.

 

The Aging Impact on Psoriasis

As the body ages, the skin undergoes significant changes that can influence the severity and behavior of psoriasis. One of the most notable shifts is the natural thinning of the skin, which can make plaques more fragile and prone to irritation or cracking. This increased sensitivity may lead to more discomfort, a higher risk of secondary infections, and slower healing times after flare-ups. Additionally, the body’s ability to retain moisture decreases with age, which can exacerbate the dryness and scaling associated with psoriasis, making symptoms more persistent and uncomfortable.

Beyond skin-related changes, the immune system also evolves over time. In some individuals, immune activity declines, which can reduce the intensity of psoriasis flare-ups. However, for others, chronic low-grade inflammation increases with age, potentially making psoriasis more difficult to manage. This heightened inflammatory response is often linked to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, which are more common in older adults and can contribute to more severe psoriasis symptoms.

Older adults with psoriasis may also face challenges when it comes to treatment. Certain systemic medications, including biologics and immunosuppressants, require careful monitoring due to potential interactions with medications used for age-related conditions. Additionally, some traditional treatments, such as strong topical steroids, may become too harsh for aging skin, requiring a more customized approach to management.

 

Managing Psoriasis as You Age

Effectively managing psoriasis as you age requires a more tailored approach that considers changes in skin health, immune function, and overall well-being. Aging skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making it essential to use gentle, hydrating treatments that help maintain the skin barrier. Fragrance-free moisturizers, ceramide-rich creams, and emollients can prevent excessive dryness and irritation, which often worsen psoriasis symptoms. Regularly applying a thick moisturizer after bathing can help lock in hydration and reduce scaling.

Lifestyle factors play a significant role in psoriasis management over time. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can help regulate flare-ups. Avoiding triggers like alcohol, processed foods, and smoking can also make a noticeable difference in symptom control. Since stress is a well-known psoriasis trigger, incorporating stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce flare-ups.

Treatment strategies may also need to be adjusted with age. Some traditional treatments, including high-potency steroids, may no longer be ideal for older adults due to increased skin sensitivity. Instead, dermatologists often recommend lower-strength corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or targeted biologic therapies that provide effective symptom relief without compromising skin health. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are essential to monitor changes in psoriasis severity and to ensure that treatments remain effective while minimizing potential side effects. Adapting skincare and treatment strategies can help keep psoriasis manageable at any stage of life.

 

Effective Psoriasis Treatments for Seniors

As individuals age, managing psoriasis effectively requires treatments that balance efficacy with skin sensitivity and overall health considerations. Older adults may experience changes in skin texture, immune function, and medication tolerance, making it important to adjust psoriasis treatments accordingly. Dermatologists often recommend a combination of topical, systemic, and lifestyle-based treatments tailored to the unique needs of aging skin. Below are some of the most effective psoriasis treatment options for seniors:

  • Gentle Topical Treatments: Lower-potency corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and calcineurin inhibitors can help reduce inflammation without causing excessive skin thinning. Thick moisturizers and emollients also help protect the skin barrier.
  • Light Therapy (Phototherapy): Narrowband UVB therapy is a safe and effective option for seniors with widespread psoriasis, as it reduces inflammation without systemic side effects.
  • Biologic Medications: Targeted biologic treatments, such as TNF inhibitors and IL-17 inhibitors, provide long-term relief by suppressing overactive immune responses. They may be recommended for seniors with moderate to severe psoriasis who do not respond to topical treatments.
  • Oral Systemic Medications: In some cases, dermatologists may prescribe oral medications like methotrexate or apremilast, but careful monitoring is necessary to avoid interactions with medications for other age-related conditions.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Adjustments: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, regular physical activity, and stress-reduction techniques can help manage flare-ups naturally and support overall health.

A well-rounded approach that includes both medical and lifestyle-based treatments ensures that psoriasis remains manageable while minimizing complications in older adults. Regular consultations with a dermatologist help refine treatment plans to maintain long-term skin health.

 

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition that can evolve with age, but it does not have to control your quality of life. While some individuals may experience worsening symptoms due to aging skin, immune system changes, or lifestyle factors, proactive management can help keep flare-ups under control. By adopting a personalized treatment plan that includes gentle skincare, effective medical therapies, and lifestyle adjustments, seniors can successfully manage psoriasis and reduce its impact on daily life.

At Derrow Dermatology, we understand that psoriasis care is not one-size-fits-all. Our team provides expert guidance and tailored treatment options to help you manage your symptoms at any stage of life. Whether you need to adjust your current treatment plan or explore new therapies, we’re here to support you. Call us today at 407-389-2020 to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward healthier, more comfortable skin.