HGTV star Nate Berkus has been battling psoriasis for nearly a decade and recently opened up about the emotional toll of living with the skin condition, describing it as both depressing and isolating.
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory disease that affects up to 3.2% of the U.S. population, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. The condition occurs when the body produces skin cells too rapidly, leading to a buildup of cells that form visible patches or spots on the skin.
Berkus, now 51, was diagnosed with psoriasis nine years ago and shared his experience in a candid interview with Peoplemagazine, discussing how he’s managed the condition over the years.
The celebrity interior designer revealed that he frequently experiences rashes on his face and body. While not painful, they are often “dry and uncomfortable” and can be triggered by stress, making him more conscious of managing those triggers.
“It’s definitely a downer and can feel depressing at times,” the Nate & Jeremiah by Design co-host shared. “I put so much effort into my life—being a good husband, a good dad, eating well, working out with personal trainers. I care about looking good and feeling confident in my own skin.
“But this isn’t something I can control. It’s something I have to live with, and it can be incredibly frustrating when flare-ups happen, often at the worst possible moments.”
The former Nate Berkus Show host is among many celebrities who have openly discussed their struggles with psoriasis. Others include reality TV stars Kim Kardashian and Jonathan Van Ness, singers Art Garfunkel and LeAnn Rimes, actor-model Cara Delevingne, and Scandal star Katie Lowes.
Berkus also delved into the emotional impact of living with a chronic skin condition, particularly the feelings of frustration and isolation it can cause.
“As someone in the public eye—and let’s face it, with social media, we’re all in the public eye now—it’s been really difficult not to be able to rely on my appearance or the condition of my skin,” he explained.
Berkus revealed that he and his dermatologist, whom he jokingly says he has “on speed dial,” have developed a successful two-step treatment plan to manage his psoriasis.
The Oprah Winfrey Show alum, who is now collaborating with pharmaceutical company AbbVie on an awareness campaign, expressed surprise when he discovered that some of his closest friends also deal with psoriasis or eczema but had never discussed it with him. This realization inspired him to be more open about his own experience and raise awareness about living with chronic skin conditions.
Heart Break
Nate Berkus faced a life-altering tragedy in 2004 when his then-partner, photographer Fernando Bengoechea, was killed in the Indian Ocean tsunami while the couple was vacationing in Sri Lanka.
The experience was devastating for Berkus, who survived the disaster but lost the man he loved. In the years following the tragedy, Berkus has spoken candidly about how Fernando’s death deeply affected his mental health and changed his perspective on life.
Berkus has described the overwhelming grief, trauma, and emotional turmoil that followed. Losing someone so close not only left him heartbroken but also profoundly shaped his understanding of loss, resilience, and healing.
He struggled with intense feelings of sadness, isolation, and survivor’s guilt in the aftermath of the disaster. This emotional toll lingered for years as Berkus navigated the process of moving forward while honoring the memory of Fernando.
In his interviews, Berkus has shared that the experience taught him the importance of mental health and self-care. His journey of grief involved seeking therapy, surrounding himself with loved ones, and focusing on finding joy and purpose again in his life.
Berkus has also highlighted how the loss changed his approach to relationships and personal growth, helping him appreciate the fragility of life and the need to live fully despite difficult circumstances.
Through his openness about his grief, Berkus has not only processed his own pain but also provided comfort and support to others dealing with loss, showing that it’s possible to heal even after unimaginable heartbreak.
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