Can you kiss someone with psoriasis?

Before doctors knew what caused psoriasis, they often confused it with leprosy -- and people who had it were considered contagious. But now we know that you cannot catch the condition by brushing up against someone who has it. You also cant get it from kissing, having sex, or swimming in the same water.

Can psoriasis spread from one person to another?

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot spread between people. It can, however, spread from one area of the body to another, especially if it is left untreated. Psoriasis is a common immune system disease that affects the skin.

What will happen if psoriasis is not treated?

Left untreated, patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis could develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA), which affects up to 40% of patients. Similar to rheumatoid arthritis, PsA can cause pain, disability, and permanent joint deformities.