Keeping the skin moist and supple is of paramount importance in psoriasis. Any dryness is bound to increase the scaling, flaking and itching which will further aggravate the condition. It will be useful to learn how to care for your skin in psoriasis.
The Bath. Prepare yourself a lukewarm oatmeal bath and soak in it for about 15-20 minutes daily. Oatmeal along with water permeates through the epidermal layers, softening and soothing the disturbed cells. This relieves itching and hydrates the skin layers.
After Bath. Do not rub or scrub the skin vigorously after the bath. Research shows that about 50% of people with psoriasis experience the ‘Koebner phenomenon’ — developing a psoriatic lesion at the site of a skin injury. Hence patients should carefully avoid any direct injury to the skin. Scrubbing to remove the scales is a mistake, as this can worsen the disease. Developing a habit of gently patting your skin dry is advisable.
Apply Moisturizers. One of the best ways to lock in moisture is to apply a good moisturizer after bathing. Regular use of moisturizers can help prevent the itch and pain of dry skin and reduce scaling and inflammation. A urea containing lotion is preferred during the day and a cream or ointment (if you don’t mind a little messiness) at night to maintain the hydration of the epidermal layers. Remember your skin is crying in psoriasis, soothe it with cool moisturizers!
Use Effective Sunscreen. Patients using retinoids should apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before going outdoors and wear protective clothing. Sun exposure can cause sunburn, which can in turn trigger psoriasis by the Koebner phenomenon.
Also keep in mind that complete avoidance of sun can cause more harm than good. A moderate supply of UV rays is indeed necessary for clearing up of the psoriatic lesions.
Use Cotton Dresses. Synthetic dress can irritate and heat up the skin and worsen psoriasis. If you cannot avoid wearing them, wear thick cotton undergarments beneath.
Avoid Dry Skin in Cold Weather. Cold, dry weather dries up the skin and worsens psoriasis. Emollient creams and ointments should be used copiously during winter months. Before application of the moisturizer, remember to moisten the skin with lukewarm water.
Use Humidifiers. The use of humidifiers, both at home and work, can add moisture to the air in winter months and help in avoiding exacerbations.
Air Conditioning Tips. Remember that air-conditioning can dry out the skin and aggravate psoriasis just like winter! Keeping the AC to minimum required coolness and regular application of moisturizing creams can overcome this problem.
Never Scratch, Scrub or Pick at the Skin. New psoriasis lesions appear at sites of dermal injury. Hence every care should be given to see that you do not, directly or indirectly, cause any skin damage.
Do Not Stop any Topical Applications Suddenly. Psoriasis can worsen if topical applications like corticosteroids are withdrawn suddenly. Hence such applications should be withdrawn gradually and replaced with good emollients.
Readers who found this article on psoriasis skin care interesting may find how to avoid psoriasis flare ups, handling the psycho-social problems in psoriasis and psoriasis treatment guidelines also useful.
Reference
- Psoriasis, in Rook’s Textbook of Dermatology, 7th Edition, 2004
Hanish Babu - Dr.Hanish Babu, MD is a dermatologist and a feature writer on Suite101.com with more than 200 articles related to skin diseases on the ...
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