World Psoriasis Day on 29 October: Why It Matters So Much
Every year on 29 October is World Psoriasis Day. On this day, people with psoriasis, patient organisations and doctors around the world raise awareness of the condition. The aim: more knowledge, less prejudice and better care for everyone living with psoriasis. Here you'll find out where the awareness day comes from, why it is so important and how you can take part yourself.
In short: what is World Psoriasis Day?
World Psoriasis Day takes place every year on 29 October. It was launched by the international umbrella organisation of psoriasis patient organisations, the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA). It aims to inform people about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, break down prejudice and draw attention to the concerns of those affected. Its symbol is a purple and orange ribbon.
Where does World Psoriasis Day come from?
The awareness day was launched by the IFPA in 2004 and has been held every year on 29 October since then, often with its own annual theme. An important milestone came in 2014: the World Health Assembly of the WHO recognised psoriasis as a serious, chronic, non-communicable disease and called on member states to do more for awareness and care.
In Germany, it is above all the German Psoriasis Association (Deutscher Psoriasis Bund, DPB) that organises events, talks and information services around the awareness day, often together with clinics and self-help groups.
Why the awareness day is so important
Around two million people in Germany live with psoriasis, and estimates put the figure worldwide at well over 100 million. Even so, many people know little about the condition.
- Breaking down prejudice: some people still believe that psoriasis is contagious or a result of poor hygiene. Neither is true. More on this in our myth check.
- More than skin: psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that can also affect the joints. More on this in Psoriatic arthritis.
- Considering the mind too: visible patches of skin, itching and people's stares are a burden. Many withdraw. You can read how closely skin and mind are connected in The mind and psoriasis.
- Good care for everyone: not everyone affected receives suitable treatment early on. The awareness day puts the spotlight on diagnosis, therapy and care.
How you can take part in World Psoriasis Day
- Talk about it: tell the people around you what psoriasis is and what it isn't. Even one conversation can dispel a prejudice.
- Share information: share reliable information on social media, for example with the hashtag #WorldPsoriasisDay.
- Attend events: check with the Deutscher Psoriasis Bund, clinics or self-help groups near you to see whether there are talks or information days.
- Connect with others: self-help groups and online communities bring together people who know what life with psoriasis feels like.
- Look after yourself: use the day as an opportunity to make an appointment with your dermatologist if your treatment no longer suits you well or if you notice new symptoms such as joint pain.
- Show the ribbon: the purple and orange ribbon is the symbol of the day. Wear it visibly, as a pin or in your profile picture.
natüür and World Psoriasis Day
World Psoriasis Day is particularly close to our hearts, because our story is closely connected with psoriasis. We developed our first skincare cream specifically for skin prone to psoriasis, and many of our products have come out of conversations with people who live with it.
In 2023 we were there in person: at the Deutscher Psoriasis Bund's information event “Psoriasis: Good care for everyone!” in Munich, we had our own stand as a sponsor and exhibitor. Alongside expert talks and an exhibition on new treatment options, we had many moving conversations with people affected and learned a great deal.
Since 2024, we have supported the awareness day without our own stand, but with no less conviction: for us, 29 October is a fixed date every year on which we raise awareness and thank everyone who shares their experiences with us.
More about psoriasis
Our skincare with NEEMAVERA® has been developed specifically for skin prone to psoriasis and can accompany treatment, for example the fragrance-free Cream forte for very dry, flaky skin.
Frequently asked questions
When is World Psoriasis Day?
World Psoriasis Day takes place every year on 29 October.
Who launched World Psoriasis Day?
The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), the international umbrella organisation of psoriasis patient organisations. The first World Psoriasis Day took place in 2004.
What is the symbol of World Psoriasis Day?
A purple and orange ribbon. Many people wear it on 29 October as a sign of solidarity with people living with psoriasis.
How many people have psoriasis?
In Germany, it is around two million people; worldwide, estimates put it at well over 100 million.
How can I take part in World Psoriasis Day?
Talk about psoriasis, share reliable information, attend an event near you or wear the purple and orange ribbon.