Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes a rash with scaly, itchy patches. These are normally found on the knees, elbows, and scalp. As you can imagine, inflammation in your skin can severely impact your day-to-day life, not to mention ruin your body’s confidence and self-esteem.
While there may be occasions where you have got the skin condition under control, should a flare-up strike, it can take you by surprise. Thankfully, there are certain tactics and lifestyle changes you can make which can help in reducing how many psoriasis flare-ups you have. Here are some things you can do to minimise symptoms and get relief quickly.
Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise!
This cannot be stressed enough. To prevent dry, itchy skin that’s caused by a psoriasis flare-up, you must keep your skin moisturised. Doing so helps in reducing redness and healing the skin. This makes it much easier to manage a flare-up. It’s recommended to use ointments or heavy creams which lock in water. Seek out moisturisers that are alcohol-free or fragrance-free as alcohol and fragrances can dry out your skin and make symptoms worse.
To help protect your skin’s moisture, it’s advised to take shorter showers and stick with lukewarm water. Always apply moisturiser after you have showered. Those who prefer taking baths should look at adding oil to the water. This can help in soothing dry, itchy skin. It also pays off to check out Patient’s guide on psoriasis. They go into detail about this skin condition and other steps you can take to reduce flare-ups.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress is part and parcel of life. Whether you’re having trouble keeping on top of your workload or have endless household chores, too much stress can wreak havoc and cause a psoriasis flare-up. This is because your body handles stress through inflammation. Anyone with psoriasis releases too many chemicals which are released during an injury or infection.
If your psoriasis is causing stress and anxiety, it’s time to speak to your GP. They can provide advice on how to best cope with stress. Some ways to combat stress include practicing meditation, exercising regularly, or taking up a hobby that takes your mind off things.
Keep On Top of Scalp Itching and Irritation
During a psoriasis flare-up, we appreciate how tempting it can be to scratch or rub your scalp. However, the more you do this, the worse your symptoms will be. You could end up with scabbing, bleeding, or the risk of hair loss. Try and avoid using shampoos that contain alcohol and fragrances. Such products can dry out your scalp.
When you wash your hair, do so with care. Some people find relief by using a scale softener. These contain salicylic acid that can help in softening and loosening patches of psoriasis plaque during flare-ups.
Follow a Nutritious Diet
It’s drilled into us from childhood the importance of following a nutritious diet, and for good reason, especially if you have psoriasis. It’s suggested what you eat may boost your risk for psoriasis, as well as how well your psoriasis reacts to treatment. Making changes to your diet and eating more healthily can lower the severity of psoriasis flare-ups.
Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, have been linked to a decrease in inflammation. Some of the best foods to incorporate into your diet that contain sources of omega-3 include fatty fish like sardines, fish oil supplements, and nuts. It’s best to talk to your GP before you increase the amount of fish oil in your diet. High levels can thin your blood are not advised for individuals who take blood thinners.
Join a Support Group
Psoriasis affects roughly 1 in 50 people. Therefore, if you have this skin condition, never feel as though you’re alone. The chances are you will know someone else who has psoriasis who you can lead on for advice and support. For those who don’t have anyone in their close circle going through the same experiences, you may benefit from joining a support group.
A quick google search will bring up dozens of psoriasis support groups. You can become a member at a forum and engage with those in the same boat as you. There, you can share tips, advice and support one another. Don’t be afraid to reach out. You could end up connecting with others that become lifelong friends.
Stop Smoking
People with psoriasis could potentially benefit enormously from packing in smoking. Some of the benefits of doing so include a lower risk of inflammation that affects the liver, heart, and gums, and a reduced chance of developing autoimmune conditions like Chron’s disease.
When stopping smoking, it is possible your psoriasis symptoms will improve. What’s more, your psoriasis treatment will work better too. Understandably, giving up smoking is easier said than done. However, that’s not to say it’s impossible. If you’re ready to stop, it’s wise to make an appointment with your GP. Alternatively, look into stop-smoking services and support groups in your local area. You may benefit from NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) to help wean you off cigarettes.
Lower Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can have an impact on how effective your prescribed psoriasis treatment plan is. If you consume alcohol, your treatment may not work as effectively. Should you cut down on alcohol, you may experience increased remissions, a lower risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, and a lower risk of developing fatty liver disease.
Like with smoking, lowering your alcohol consumption can be challenging. But, as long as you remain committed and have goals in place, swapping that glass of wine or pint of beer for water can truly do wonders for your skin and psoriasis.
Take Notice of The Weather
For some individuals, psoriasis flares are more prevalent in autumn and winter. This is because when temperatures fall and you switch your central heating on, the dry indoor heat can cause dry skin. Unfortunately, this can worsen psoriasis. Moisturising dry skin can reduce the risk of flare-ups, particularly during the colder months.
Make sure to use a quality moisturiser on your skin once you’ve taken a shower or anytime you notice your skin feels dry. You may benefit from plugging in a humidifier too. This adds moisture to indoor air and can relieve dry skin.
Get a Little Sun
Both topical vitamin D and the vitamin D your body produces after being in the sun could help lower how many psoriasis flare-ups you have. There are many benefits of getting outdoors and soaking up some sun. These include lowering stress levels, maintaining strong bones, strengthening your immune system, and fighting off anxiety and depression.
Too much sun exposure can do more harm than good, especially for those with psoriasis. If you’re outside in the sun for longer than 10 minutes, make sure to apply sun lotion. You should opt for sun lotion that has an SPF of at least 30. Also, make sure that it’s irritant and fragrance-free. Should you get a sunburn, this causes injury to your skin and could increase the chances of a psoriasis flare-up.
For those with psoriasis, we can’t lie and say you’ll always have the condition under control. However, what we can say is should a flare-up occur, there are things you can do immediately that can provide relief and reduce the frequency of how often you get flare-ups.
