Psoriasis & Stress - Unlocking The Skin-Mind Connection

Psoriasis Is More Than Skin Deep

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disorder affecting 2–3% of the global population. People with psoriasis may have red, scaly plaques found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk. Why does psoriasis occur? Scientists have discovered that this condition is due to an over-activation of our immune system. While commonly treated with topical steroids, phototherapy, or medications, flare-ups may occur. However, most conventional treatments focus on suppressing symptoms rather than addressing root causes—especially those rooted in our nervous system.

 

Stress: A Major Psoriasis Trigger

It is well-known that stress is a key trigger and exacerbator of psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Psychological stress can activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and promote inflammatory cascades that worsen psoriatic flares. A review in The British Journal of Dermatology emphasized that over 70% of psoriasis patients report stress as a flare trigger, and many experience a cyclical relationship where visible skin symptoms provoke further emotional distress. Chronic anxiety and poor sleep worsen systemic inflammation, reduce skin barrier recovery, and perpetuate immune dysfunction.

 

The Mental Health Burden of Psoriasis

The connection between mental health and psoriasis is profound. Psoriasis patients have significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation compared to the general population according to an article in JAMA Dermatology. Traditional dermatologic care often fails to address this psychosocial dimension—yet it is essential to true healing.

 

Acupuncture as a Proven Supportive Treatment

This is where acupuncture offers a powerful, research-supported solution. Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can help reduce the severity of psoriasis while also improving associated anxiety and depression. Annals of Palliative Medicine reported that acupuncture reduced the size and itchiness of skin plaques, had fewer side-effects compared to pharmaceutical treatments and was more cost-effective. Experts believe that acupuncture may boost the immune system and increase the circulation in the affected areas, resulting in reduced inflammation and improvement in the skin. Furthermore, acupuncture alters inflammatory cytokines and improves patient-reported quality of life. However, the powerful anxiety-reducing effect of acupuncture may be what relieves psoriasis the most. 

 

How We Treat Psoriasis at Seyhart

At Seyhart, we take a holistic, integrative approach to psoriasis—recognizing that the skin, immune system, and nervous system all interact in dynamic ways. Our acupuncture treatment plans are customized and comprehensive. For patients with psoriasis and stress-related flares, our acupuncturists use points known to regulate immune function, clear heat and dampness, and calm the spirit. These are selected based on both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnosis and Western neuroimmune understanding.

 

Supporting Therapies for Whole-Body Healing

We often integrate cupping therapy, especially along the upper back (lung and bladder channels), to support detoxification and qi flow, as well as Tuina massage to help restore autonomic balance. Auricular acupuncture and ear seeds are frequently used to support stress relief between sessions.

 

A Calmer Mind, A Clearer Skin

We recognize that your skin and your emotional health are not separate. Our clients often report not only improved lesions and reduced itching but also fewer anxiety attacks, deeper sleep, and a restored sense of calm. By gently recalibrating the nervous system and immune system together, we help people break the cycle of flare-ups and emotional distress—and guide them toward long-term resilience.

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