Psoriasis and Dating: Can We Find A Partner?

Imagine the situation. Your psoriasis is breaking out. It covers large parts of your body. It feels like it is everywhere: your face, legs, and arms. It is very visible from all angles. Your scalp is itchy. Flakes fall off that look like you just shook a snow globe. You are down and depressed. But wait, you have something exciting to look forward to: you are going on a date.

If you have psoriasis, you may want to avoid this situation. You may feel that people will not want you because of your skin. You may not feel confident enough to sit down with a potential romantic partner. It is important to understand that you are not alone. Lots of people with this condition have felt the exact same way.

I am here to tell you to go on that date.

Often people with psoriasis will make excuses for their skin so they do not have to do things. But dating does not have to be one of them. Finding the right person is key.

What to know about the condition

The thing about this condition is that yes, it is unsightly. Yes, it is itchy. Yes, it bleeds. But at the end of the day, it is part of you. There is not anything you can do about it. You have the gene. The patches will come and go in waves. You will have better times where they do not really bother you. Other times they are horrendous and breaking out everywhere.

Care for yourself. Look after yourself. At the end of the day, if you do not love yourself, you are going to struggle. It will be hard to love another human being in the way that you want to.

Tips for talking to your date

What I find helps with dating is to be honest with the person you are seeing. If your psoriasis is visible, this is sometimes easier because the other person can see it. Can you make a joke about it? Can you educate the person you are on a date with? You do not need to downplay its impact. A bit of humor can help break the ice. It shows that you are not bothered by it to the extent that it might impact the relationship.

If it is not visible, or if you do not want to be humorous, try to bring it up casually. Mention the fact you have a chronic condition. Note that it cannot be spread and that many people have it all over the world. You will be surprised at the responses. Friends, colleagues, and dates have told me they know people with it and know how it affects them.

The right person will not care. They will see you for who you are, not for your skin condition.

Finding the right support

If your skin is affecting you, it might be worth seeking professional help. There are great therapists out there who work with people who have a skin condition. They will help you see situations, including dating, in a new way. They can help you live your life, be happy, and take chances.

Whatever decisions you make, remember to trust yourself. If you need further support, join support groups. Connect with other people with this condition and research as much as you can.

Dating with psoriasis can be difficult. You may feel that no one would want you. You may not feel comfortable showing your patches to a potential partner.

Most people will not care. And certainly the right person will not. Do not be too hard on yourself. Finding a soul mate can take time. Not everyone gets it spot on the first time. So be open, be brave, and see where life takes you. You never know—that special someone might be just around the corner.