Skin Plaques: Causes, Treatments, and What You Need to Know

When your skin develops raised, scaly patches that won’t go away, you’re likely dealing with skin plaques, thickened, inflamed areas of skin that often appear on elbows, knees, or scalp. Also known as plaque lesions, these aren’t just cosmetic—they’re a sign your body’s immune system or skin barrier is out of balance. They’re not contagious, but they can be itchy, painful, or embarrassing. And while they often show up in adults, they can start in childhood too.

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition where skin cells grow too fast is the most common cause of skin plaques. The plaques here are usually red with silvery scales, and they tend to come and go in cycles. But eczema, a skin inflammation triggered by irritation, allergens, or dryness can also form plaques, especially when it’s long-term and scratched often. Then there’s lichen planus, a less common condition that causes purple, flat-topped bumps that can merge into plaques. Each has different triggers, different treatments, and different long-term risks.

What you do about them matters. Topical steroids, moisturizers, and coal tar can calm mild cases. For stubborn plaques, light therapy or oral meds might be needed. But skipping treatment can lead to thicker skin, infections, or even joint pain in psoriasis. And while some people try home remedies like coconut oil or apple cider vinegar, they won’t fix the root issue—only a proper diagnosis will.

You’ll find real-world advice here: how to tell if your plaque is psoriasis or something else, what over-the-counter options actually work, when to see a dermatologist, and how to avoid treatments that make things worse. These aren’t theory-based guesses—they’re lessons from people who’ve lived with it, doctors who’ve treated it, and studies that tracked outcomes. Whether you’re dealing with flaky elbows, a scaly scalp, or red patches on your back, you’ll find clear, no-fluff guidance below.