Smokers have double the risk of developing psoriasis (and that includes ex-smokers), with the risk increasing directly related to the number of cigarettes smoked per day. Additionally, smoking also triggers—and heightens—flares, decreases remission time, and reduces the effectiveness of treatment in current psoriasis patients.
The influence of smoking on psoriasis is thought to be related to nicotine, which alters the immune system and cell growth, and it is directly associated with skin inflammation.
If you want to quit smoking, it is highly recommendable that you seek help from a specialist, who can give you advice about the best method to do so based on your own needs.
References
- National Psoriasis Foundation. [Internet] Available at: https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/how-cigarettes-and-alcohol-affect-psoriasis. Accessed: 06/07/2018
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