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Youth with psoriasis in focus

Young adulthood is a critical period of life—when people are figuring out who they are, build relationships and make decisions about their future. Nearly one third of adults with psoriasis develop the disease before the age of 18. Experiencing the onset of psoriasis during these formative years—between 18 and 35 years of age—can make a serious impact on self-esteem, confidence and ability to realize one’s full potential. The theme of World Psoriasis Day 2026 aims to give young people a platform to share their stories and speak openly about their lived experience of psoriasis—helping to overcome shame, stigma and silence around the disease. With the slogan “Look Beyond My Skin”, this year’s campaign calls for a shift in perspective: to recognize the person behind the disease, to listen to their experiences, embrace them for who they are, and to encourage greater understanding of psoriasis.

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World Psoriasis Day reception

About the campaign

IFPA presents World Psoriasis Day. Each year, the global community unites to raise awareness and call for action in support of people living with psoriatic disease. World Psoriasis Day has been celebrated on October 29th for more than a decade. Today, World Psoriasis Day is observed in over 70 countries.

Youth in focus – Look Beyond My Skin

This year, we will bring attention to young people living with psoriasis, provide space for sharing their stories and support them in navigating life and standing up for themselves.

Young adulthood is a critical period of life—when people are figuring out who they are, build relationships, make decisions about education and careers, and discover their place in the world. Nearly one third of adults with psoriasis develop the disease before the age of 18. 

The theme of World Psoriasis Day 2026 aims to empower young people and encourage them to speak openly about their lived experience of psoriasis—helping to overcome shame, stigma and silence around the disease.

Many young people living with psoriasis say they feel alone, isolated and misunderstood. People around them—including wider society and sometimes even their own families—may not fully understand what they are going through or be able to support them. As a result, young people are frequently left to explain their condition themselves.

With the slogan “Look Beyond My Skin”, this year’s campaign calls for a shift in perspective: to recognize the person behind the disease, to listen to their experiences, embrace them for who they are, and to encourage greater understanding of psoriasis. 


By sharing the real stories of young adults, we aim to foster empathy, encourage education, and create a world where no one has to justify their condition to be accepted, included, and supported.

To support this effort, we have developed a series of videos, portraying young heroes who live with the disease. Join us in raising awareness around the theme. 

 #LookBeyondMySkin 

World Psoriasis Day Supporters

Contact Person

  • Elena ex 002 Linkedin WEBB

    Elena Krivovyaz

    Communications Lead

    Elena oversees IFPA’s communications and outreach strategies, media relations and engagement with audiences across IFPA’s channels. She brings a strong expertise in journalism together with her extensive experience in strategic communications and digital marketing. She holds master’s degrees in journalism and in media and communications. Elena strongly believes in the power of storytelling to shift mindsets and drive humanity forward.