How to care for psoriasis skin

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, systemic inflammatory disease that occurs in episodes. It occurs when skin cells are replaced more quickly than normal (about every 28 days), causing a buildup of skin cells, creating flaky, rough patches covered with scales. It can be painful and intensely itchy.

Skin care is an important part of managing psoriasis symptoms. Products applied to the skin that cause dryness or irritation can make symptoms worse. A damaged skin barrier can leave the skin sensitive and vulnerable to external factors. The immune response combined with the inflammation already present in psoriasis can cause painful, itchy flare-ups. Following a psoriasis-friendly skin care routine can help reduce inflammation, pain, and itching.

Should avoid

People with psoriasis should avoid unhealthy habits such as taking long hot baths (more than 10 minutes), rubbing the skin vigorously, shaving with a blunt blade or pressing hard, and waxing regularly. Sometimes washing your face too much, even with a gentle cleanser, can cause irritation.

Avoid using any products that contain ingredients that can strip moisture from your skin or contain harsh chemicals. Carefully check the ingredient list before using a new product and monitor for symptoms afterward. Ingredients in skin care products to watch out for with psoriasis include fragrance, alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate.

Many ingredients can aggravate psoriasis depending on the formulation and frequency of use. For example, some essential oils can be beneficial in treating psoriasis, but applying too much or using a less pure formulation can make the condition worse.

Salicylic acid is another example of an ingredient that can be overused. A dermatologist may recommend a salicylic acid product to help reduce scaling. However, using many products containing salicylic acid or using them too often can easily cause dry skin and worsen symptoms. Consult a dermatologist for instructions on how to use these products properly.

Should use

Moisturizer: Moisturizing throughout the day, at key times like right after a shower, can soothe and hydrate the skin. However, sufferers should pay attention to product ingredients. Some additives or fragrances can cause flare-ups.

Sunscreen: While moisturizing the skin, it also protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. You should choose a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Avoid using sunscreen with fragrances, additives, and chemicals.

Urea cream: Urea products help balance the skin’s moisture levels, while also helping to slough off dead skin cells.

Shower gel: People with psoriasis should choose a body wash that is free of fragrances or other additives. A 2019 study in the US of 36 people with psoriasis showed significant skin improvement when using body washes containing ceramide/keratolytic.

Shampoo: Most people with psoriasis experience scalp psoriasis. Your doctor may prescribe shampoos or topical products for the scalp. Patients can also use over-the-counter shampoo products containing coal tar (tar). Coal tar helps inhibit the proliferation of skin cells, reducing inflammation, itching and scaling. Products containing 0.5-5% coal tar are effective for this skin condition.

Daily skin care

In the morning, patients can use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. To maximize absorption into the skin, apply the product prescribed by your dermatologist immediately after cleansing. Allow the medication to dry or absorb, then apply moisturizer or lotion to the face and body.

After the moisturizer has been fully absorbed into the skin, apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Avoid applying sunscreen to inflamed areas. Patients can apply makeup lightly with their fingers or a soft makeup tool. Avoid applying multiple layers of makeup or leaving the product on for too long.

In the evening, repeat the above process, minus the sunscreen. Shower for less than 10 minutes, using warm water and a mild, moisturizing soap or body wash. Scrub with your hands, rather than a washcloth or loofah, to avoid irritating your skin. Wait until after your shower, when your hair is softest, to shave, and use a moisturizer instead of regular soap.