Inverse Psoriasis
Found in body folds such as the armpits, groin and under the breasts; it shows moist, glossy, sharply bordered and almost scale-free red plaques often mistaken for fungus.
Clinic and treatment images
Tap to enlargeDo you recognise these signs?
If one or more of these applies to you, we recommend a dermatological assessment.
- Sharply bordered red plaques in the armpit, groin and under-breast folds
- A glossy, smooth surface where moisture has rubbed the usual scale away
- A thin, at times painful fissure forming right in the depth of the fold
- Burning, itch and discomfort that worsen with friction and with sweating
Causes and triggers
- The psoriatic immune process settling in folds exposed to sweat and friction
- Moisture, warmth and skin-on-skin rubbing that continually trigger the signs
- Obesity and deep folds that add local load and make the flares easier
- Co-existing fungal or bacterial overgrowth that aggravates and mimics the picture
How we treat it
Clarifying the fungal and bacterial differential and treating both if needed
Gentle, low-irritation regional care with thin, cortisone-free topical agents
Reducing the moisture, limiting friction and supporting the skin barrier
Considering systemic therapy for widespread or resistant flexural disease
Why Clinovia?
Psoriasis and eczema are not only a surface problem. We assess the skin barrier, inflammation, nutrition and lifestyle, comorbidities and dermatological treatment together. Evidence-based dermatology remains the backbone; nutrition and lifestyle support that plan.
The Gut–Skin Relationship
We review digestive symptoms, dietary pattern and food-sensitivity history. The link between gut microbiome and inflammatory skin disease is still being researched, so it is addressed alongside — never instead of — dermatological treatment.
Cortisone-Free Protocol
First-line calcineurin and PDE-4 inhibitors, ceramide-based barrier repair and phototherapy instead of steroids; systemic and biologic steps when needed.
Systemic Repair
Vitamin D, zinc, omega-3 and iron levels plus thyroid and insulin resistance are screened, and any deficits found are built into the plan.
Measurable Follow-up
PASI/EASI and DLQI scores are tracked alongside laboratory values; steps that do not deliver a response are removed from the plan.
Because in the folds moisture rubs the scale away, leaving glossy, red, scale-free plaques that look very much like a fungal infection. The two can also occur together. For this reason the distinction is made on examination, with a sample taken if needed, and treatment is planned accordingly.
Fold skin is thin and sensitive to irritation, and the environment is moist and prone to friction. We therefore prefer gentler, low-irritation, cortisone-free topicals rather than those used on trunk plaques. Reducing moisture, limiting friction and supporting the barrier are an essential part of care.
Yes. For infant eczema and paediatric psoriasis we use age-appropriate topical stepping, a moisturising routine and, when indicated, paediatric phototherapy dosing.
Our standard protocols are cortisone-free. We work with topical calcineurin inhibitors, PDE-4 inhibitors, ceramide-based barrier repair, NB-UVB phototherapy and biologic agents when needed. Cortisone is considered only for very short, unavoidable situations and with the patient's consent.
Other conditions
Plaque PsoriasisThe most common form of psoriasis; it presents with well-defined, thickened plaques topped by silvery scale on the elbows, knees and trunk, often with itch.
Learn more
Guttate PsoriasisAn abrupt-onset form that often follows a throat infection, marked by numerous small, teardrop-shaped, lightly scaled plaques scattered across the trunk and arms.
Learn more
Scalp PsoriasisA stubborn form affecting the scalp, hairline and area behind the ears with thick, adherent scale; it often itches and can cause temporary hair shedding.
Learn more
NB-UVB PhototherapyNarrowband UVB at 311 nm calms inflammation in psoriasis and eczema without cortisone. Sessions run two to three times a week, with a typical course of 20–30 and PASI/EASI tracking.
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Biologic TreatmentsBiologic drugs selectively block targets such as IL-17 and IL-23 in psoriasis and IL-4/13 in eczema. They are considered in moderate-to-severe, resistant disease after screening.
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Systemic TherapySystemic drugs such as methotrexate, cyclosporine and acitretin are used in widespread or resistant psoriasis and eczema, alongside laboratory and safety monitoring.
Learn more
Let's build the right plan for your skin today
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- Consultation in five languages
- Written treatment plan
- Defterdar, Fethi Çelebi Cd. No:15, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Türkiye
- Mon–Sat: 09:00 – 19:00