If you live with psoriasis, it can impact your self-esteem. Tips, like discussing your condition with those you trust and stepping out of your comfort zone, may improve your confidence.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that causes a buildup of skin cells. There may be signs of inflammation, such as scales on the skin and raised plaques, that appear differently based on skin types:

  • On light or very light skin tones, psoriasis tends to be pink or red with a silvery-white scale.
  • On medium skin tones, psoriasis appears as salmon-colored with a silvery-white scale.
  • On dark skin tones, psoriasis can be violet with a gray scale or it can appear dark brown and be difficult to see.

These patches may flare up without warning.

If you’re living with psoriasis and feel self-conscious about your symptoms, you’re not alone.

Psoriasis affects more than 7.5 million people in the United States 20 years old and older. A 2016 study suggested that it may have a significant impact on self-esteem. However, you don’t have to let psoriasis control your life.

Here are some helpful tips on how to boost your self-confidence when coping with a psoriasis flare.

Your skin is only one aspect of who you are. It doesn’t define you as a person.

When you begin to feel frustrated or embarrassed about psoriasis symptoms, remind yourself of the many positive qualities you have that other people appreciate.

It’s likely that others admire your loyalty, intelligence, sense of humor, and listening skills.

Instead of dwelling on negative feelings about psoriasis, try to focus on the qualities you like about yourself. This may help you accept that others care more about those traits, too.

You might be tempted to avoid your mirror during a flare-up, but looking at your skin without judgment may begin to normalize your condition.

This may help you feel more comfortable with your body.

When you learn to accept that flare-ups are a regular part of life, you may begin to see psoriasis as a small part of a much bigger picture. Your skin doesn’t change your other physical attributes, such as your eyes, smile, or personal sense of style.

It’s also worth reminding yourself that you’re likely your own harshest critic when it comes to your appearance.

If you can learn to love your body, others can, too.

When you’re around people you trust, you don’t need to pretend you don’t have psoriasis.

Trying to ignore your condition might make situations more awkward. If you seem uncomfortable discussing it, your friends and family will likely feel the same way.

A better strategy may be to address your psoriasis openly. Let your social circle know it’s OK to ask questions. Help them understand it’s not something they need to tiptoe around.

Talking about your condition with friends may do wonders for your confidence. It may also encourage others to open up about experiences they’re insecure about.

There’s no need to hide it.

You may find it helpful to join a support group to talk about your psoriasis with people who understand what you’re going through.

Sharing your experience with others who have the same condition may be therapeutic and energizing. Even if you don’t feel comfortable speaking at first, listening to your fellow support group members may provide a powerful reminder that you’re not alone.

If there aren’t any psoriasis support groups in your area, consider joining an online discussion forum or message board.

Feeling like you’re part of a community that accepts you without judgment could help you feel more confident and help you develop a positive outlook.

Regular physical activity is good for your body and mind.

Whether playing a team sport, working out at the gym, or hiking in the woods, staying active may help boost your confidence and make you feel more connected with your body.

Physical activity also helps decrease stress, which has benefits for managing psoriasis. Stress and psoriasis flares are often closely related.

Feeling stressed out about your psoriasis could lead to a flare-up. Having a flare-up could cause you more stress.

Managing your stress levels may help minimize the severity of your psoriasis symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

You may be tempted to hide psoriasis patches with clothes that cover up your skin, but wearing long sleeves and pants during the summer isn’t always comfortable or fun.

Give yourself permission to wear clothes that feel most comfortable, even if they don’t hide your psoriasis.

You’ll feel more confident when you’re dressed in something you like rather than something you feel forced to wear.

Fashion is a form of expression. Expressing yourself is a chance to separate your sense of identity from your psoriasis.

When you feel down about your psoriasis, venturing outside your comfort zone may help challenge your negative emotions and build confidence.

Consider pushing yourself to do things your psoriasis has held you back from. For example, say yes when someone invites you to a party, or wear shorts or a dress when you go to the beach.

The more you live a free and full life with psoriasis, the less power the condition will have over you. It may not be easy at first, but it will be worth it.

There’s currently no cure for psoriasis, but treatment can help you manage symptoms. And learning to be confident in your own skin may significantly reduce its emotional impact.

If you’re having difficulty managing self-esteem related to your psoriasis, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor about mental health support.

They may refer you to a mental health specialist who can help you develop a positive relationship with your body and strategies for coping with the emotional challenges psoriasis may pose.