Nevada Esthetics State Board License Practice Exam

Psoriasis is indeed a hereditary skin condition that can be influenced by environmental factors. It is characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin's surface. The genetic component means that individuals with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

Environmental factors can act as triggers for psoriasis flare-ups. These triggers can include stress, skin injuries, infections, certain medications, and weather conditions. Thus, a person who has a genetic predisposition to psoriasis may find that their symptoms worsen under specific environmental circumstances, making it a complex interplay of heredity and environmental impact.

In contrast, eczema and atopic dermatitis are often considered synonymous, with atopic dermatitis being a form of eczema that is also influenced by hereditary factors but is primarily seen as a chronic inflammatory condition rather than distinctly hereditary. Contact dermatitis is related to specific allergens or irritants and is not inherently a hereditary condition.