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Some people wonder whether mold exposure could be an environmental trigger for psoriasis and whether it contributes to flare-ups or makes symptoms worse. Psoriasis is a complex condition influenced by genetics, the immune system, and environmental factors. Certain triggers, such as stress and cold weather, are known to cause flare-ups. Because of this, it makes sense to ask whether other triggers in your environment, like mold, may play a role too.
“I believe mold counts are through the roof, and I think mold might be a trigger for me,” one MyPsoriasisTeam member said about a recent flare. Another member said, “I had a wonderful day! I changed the filter in my shower and a new showerhead, and after my shower, my psoriasis nearly disappeared! There was mold in the shower head. I feel like a new person!”
If you suspect mold may be contributing to your psoriasis flare-ups, you can take steps to regain control of your symptoms. Here’s what scientists know about the possible connection between mold and psoriasis, as well as how to reduce mold’s impact on your skin.
Many different factors play a role in who develops psoriasis, and there’s still a lot that scientists don’t know. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This causes the skin to make new cells at an abnormally fast rate. Researchers believe that something triggers a change in the immune system that leads to psoriasis, but the exact cause is still unclear.
Research has shown that mold exposure in childhood homes is linked to higher risks of health problems such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema). Some studies suggest that psoriasis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis may be caused by similar problems in the immune system. With this in mind, it makes sense to wonder whether mold exposure could also be linked to the development of psoriasis. More research is needed to confirm whether this link exists.
Research shows that allergic diseases may raise the risk of developing psoriasis. About 1 in 5 people with allergies are allergic to mold. Like other allergies, mold allergies involve an overreactive immune system — in this case, the immune system reacts to mold spores as if they were harmful invaders. In response, the body makes antibodies to fight them, which can cause symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, wheezing, and skin rashes.
Even though allergies and psoriasis can both involve the immune system, the two conditions may not always be linked. You might just have both psoriasis and a mold allergy at the same time.
Mold allergies often go unnoticed. Many people don’t realize they’re being exposed to mold or that it could be causing symptoms. If you think you might have a mold allergy, talk to your healthcare provider.
Because mold is a fungus, scientists are also looking at the role fungi may play in psoriasis. It’s known that bacterial infections can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Fungal infections may do the same by causing unusual immune reactions and high inflammation.
The fungus Malassezia may contribute to psoriatic skin lesions, especially on the scalp. Research has also found significantly higher rates of Candida fungus in people with psoriasis compared to those without the condition.
“Quite a few people are noticing the link between psoriasis and Candida,” explained one MyPsoriasisTeam member. “All this time, I have been focusing on malnutrition, malabsorption, and allergies. The thought that a yeast infection could be the underlying cause never crossed my mind. I’ve had oral thrush for years and did not pay it any attention. I started an over-the-counter Candida treatment a few days ago. Talk to your doctor, and watch out for the signs and symptoms.”
Psoriasis can make nails grow in unusual ways, which raises the risk of fungal finger and toenail infections for people with psoriasis.
One common issue is that nail fungus and nail psoriasis can look very similar, which makes it difficult to tell them apart. Sometimes, nail psoriasis is misdiagnosed as nail fungus because both conditions can cause discolored, thickened nails. Other times, both conditions happen at the same time, since nails damaged by psoriasis are more likely to get infected.
One MyPsoriasisTeam member shared their frustration: “I’m confused if it’s nail fungus or psoriasis. Does anyone have experience with foot psoriasis and toenail issues? One doctor told me it was nail and foot fungus. But a dermatologist said I have psoriasis on my feet. How can I be sure this is diagnosed and treated correctly?”
If you notice any new symptoms on your nails, call your dermatologist for an evaluation. They can help you find the right diagnosis and treatment.
Some psoriasis medications, called biologics, change how the immune system works. Because of this, they can make it harder for your body to fight infections. Studies show that some people taking biologics for psoriasis developed fungal infections on their skin. If you’re using biologics, take steps to lower your risk of getting sick, and talk with your healthcare provider about any new symptoms.
Right now, there’s no clear evidence that mold directly causes psoriasis. Psoriasis is a complex autoimmune condition, and while many environmental factors can cause flare-ups, mold exposure has not been shown to be one of them.
Still, mold may play an indirect role. Mold allergies can trigger immune responses, and some fungi (like Malassezia and Candida) are linked to changes in psoriatic skin. Even if mold itself isn’t a direct cause, exposure may make other problems worse — like asthma or skin irritation — which could stress the immune system and contribute to flare-ups in people with psoriasis.
If your psoriasis is flaring up and you think mold might be a trigger, ask your doctor about an allergy test. Testing can show if you’re allergic to mold or other common allergens that may make psoriasis symptoms worse.
If you do have an allergy to mold (or anything else), your doctor may suggest treatments such as over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines to prevent an allergic reaction. You’ll also need to make lifestyle changes to lower your exposure to allergens.
Even if you’re not allergic, it’s important to keep mold out of your home. Mold can cause other health problems and damage the structure of your home.
Some simple steps can help you keep mold out of your home:
It’s also important to think about mold at work or in other places where you spend a lot of time. People who repair furniture, practice carpentry, bake, make wine, do millwork or logging, practice farming, or work in a greenhouse have a higher chance of mold exposure. Working in an older building or an area with poor ventilation or high humidity can also put you at risk.
If you believe mold at work is causing your health problems, talk to your supervisor or the building’s maintenance staff. You can also reach out to your local health department, state labor department, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for help.
On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
What tips can you share for preventing mold to maintain healthy skin? Let others know in the comments below.
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