Psoriasis diagnosed in childhood profoundly affects not only children but also their parents, especially as they transition into adolescence, a pivotal phase for identity and self-esteem development. A recent interpretative phenomenological analysis published in the British Journal of Health Psychology sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by families navigating this chronic condition.
Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 8 parent-child pairs, identifying 3 key themes: transition and transaction, stigma and social impact, and the treatment journey. During childhood, uncertainties about treatment options were central concerns. However, as children approached adolescence, their struggles shifted toward issues of identity, body image, and self-management of the condition.
The social visibility of psoriasis emerged as a recurring source of distress. Both children and parents reported significant emotional challenges due to stigmatization, which heightened during adolescence. Parents expressed feelings of helplessness while witnessing their child’s increased responsibility for managing the disease and coping with peer scrutiny.
These findings underscore the systemic impact of psoriasis on families, highlighting a pressing need for interventions that address not only medical treatment but also emotional and social well-being. Researchers recommend mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioural therapy tailored to children and parents to reduce stress and enhance resilience.
“This study suggests that childhood psoriasis can have a significant impact on children, particularly as they begin to transition to adolescence. Findings also highlight the burden of psoriasis for parents,” researchers concluded. “As such, psychological interventions (such as adapted forms of mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioural-therapy) are needed to target and reduce stress. Such interventions are likely to require a systemic focus and support validation of the real impact and fear of stigmatization.”
Reference
Day M, Heapy C, Norman P, et al. Impact of childhood psoriasis on children and parents during transition to adolescence: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Br J Health Psychol. 2025;30(1):e12763. doi:10.1111/bjhp.12763
Psoriasis has become a significant health concern in Thailand, with more than 20,000 outpatient cases recorded in 2024. It is now the third most common dermatological condition in the country. Approximately 1.7 million Thais suffer from psoriasis, with 30% experiencing severe symptoms that often require advanced treatments beyond standard medications. The average cost of treatment per visit is estimated at 3,100 baht.
Karom Polpornklang, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, shared these statistics while highlighting a breakthrough in alternative treatments. The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has collaborated with Thai researchers to develop an innovative herbal patch for psoriasis patients.
This herbal patch, inspired by the traditional formula “Karun Osot,” incorporates cannabidiol (CBD) extracts. Using transdermal delivery, the patch targets symptoms such as thickened skin patches and is particularly effective for mild to moderate cases. It offers a promising alternative for patients seeking Thai traditional medical solutions.
The patch recently earned international recognition, winning a silver medal at the iENA 2024 International Trade Fair in Nuremberg, Germany. It also received a special award from the China Association of Inventions.
Managing psoriasis during winter can be challenging. Experts share essential tips, including hydration, gentle cleansing, protective fabrics, indoor humidity, diet, sunlight moderation, and consistent care
Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that accelerates skin cell turnover, often leads to scaling, inflammation, and discomfort. Winter poses a unique challenge for individuals with psoriasis, as cold, dry air and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural moisture, exacerbating symptoms. Experts Dr. Trupti Desale and Dr. Mandeep Singh share their insights on managing psoriasis during the colder months.
Understand the Triggers
Dr. Desale, MBBS, MD (Skin) from NiTi Skin and Hair Clinic in Nashik, Maharashtra, explains that dry skin, often triggered by environmental factors such as low humidity, cold air, and indoor heating, is a significant cause of psoriasis flare-ups. Dr. Singh, HOD of Plastic, Dermatology, and Cosmetic Surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram, adds that such conditions can exacerbate dryness and irritation, highlighting the importance of proactive skin care.
Image - Canva
Hydration is Crucial
Both experts stress the importance of keeping the skin well-moisturised. Dr. Singh recommends using thick, emollient creams or ointments immediately after bathing to lock in moisture. Dr. Desale suggests looking for products with ceramides, shea butter, or glycerine, which help to retain hydration and repair the skin’s barrier.
Harsh cleansers can irritate sensitive skin. Dr Desale advises using fragrance-free cleansers and incorporating soothing additives like Dead Sea salts or bath oils to calm inflamed skin. Dr. Singh echoes this sentiment, warning against the use of hot water, which can strip protective oils from the skin. Instead, lukewarm water is recommended.
Use Protective Fabrics
To reduce friction and irritation, both experts suggest wearing soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Dr. Desale recommends layering strategically, placing softer materials close to the skin to create a barrier against potentially irritating heavier fabrics.
Maintain Indoor Humidity
Dry indoor air can exacerbate psoriasis. Dr. Desale advises maintaining a humidity level of 30-50% at home using a humidifier. This helps to combat the dryness caused by heating systems.
Indulge in a Skin-Friendly Diet
A balanced diet can support skin health. Dr. Desale suggests including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, along with water-rich fruits and vegetables. Staying hydrated internally can complement external moisturising efforts.
Sunlight and UV Protection
While brief exposure to natural sunlight can help manage symptoms, Dr. Singh cautions that UV exposure is still a concern even in winter. Using sunscreen when outdoors is essential to protect sensitive skin.
Consistency and Professional Care
Both experts agree on the importance of staying consistent with prescribed treatments. Regular dermatological consultations can help personalise care and manage flare-ups effectively. Dr. Desale also points out that it is important to perform patch tests before using new products to avoid potential triggers.
Managing psoriasis in winter requires a comprehensive approach that includes hydration, gentle care, and attention to triggers. By following these expert-recommended tips, individuals with psoriasis can minimise discomfort and keep their skin healthy through the colder months.
Frosty temperatures can do a number on our skin, especially as we get older
If perpetually cold hands and feet weren't clear tip-offs that we're now in winter's grasp, perhaps a flurry of dry, flaky skin has driven it home.
Rough, itchy patches are nearly universal at this time of year. But you may not have braced yourself for other skin problems that can crop up — or get worse — when temperatures plunge.
On this undesirable list are eczema, which is marked by dry, red areas and painful cracks; psoriasis, which typically involves patches of thick, red skin coated with silvery scales; rosacea, most often characterized by facial flushing and redness and causing red bumps on the nose and cheeks; and seborrheic dermatitis, which is known as dandruff when it's on the scalp but can take the form of a scaly rash on other skin areas, particularly around the eyebrows and the corners of the nose and chin.
Even people whose skin has been remarkably unproblematic over the years often find they're facing new winter skin woes merely because they're getting older, says Dr. Rachel Reynolds, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre. For women, the first five or so years after menopause may seem especially brutal, since diminishing oestrogen levels translate into less skin moisture.
"As we age, our skin gets drier," Dr. Reynolds says. "So unless someone has already been dealing with a skin condition, they might not experience these weather-related changes until they get older."
Problematic behaviours
Why do all of these problems converge in winter? Simply put, winter wreaks havoc with our skin barrier — the top layer of skin, which contains substances such as cholesterol and fatty acids that help seal in moisture and protect against irritants.
Frosty temperatures and dry air are winter-weather characteristics that are particularly hard on skin. "Even heating systems create more dryness," Dr. Reynolds notes. "They take more humidity out of the environment, which extracts moisture from the skin."
Certain behaviours can aggravate the situation, including
taking long, hot showers or washing hands frequently
using harsh soaps, laundry detergents, fabric softener sheets, or heavily fragranced products
spending a lot of time outdoors
wearing wool, which can irritate sensitive skin.
Surprisingly, using alcohol-based hand sanitizer — which became a staple during the pandemic — isn't as drying as hand washing can be, Dr. Reynolds says. "Ironically, for someone who has to clean their hands frequently, soap and water exposure is more harsh on skin," she says.
Skin protection tips
Applying moisturizer is a go-to measure to ward off dry skin, as well as soothe problems such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. But Dr. Reynolds suggests taking a deeper dive on products and approaches you may not have considered:
Opt for creams and ointments, since thinner lotions don't provide as much moisture.
Coat cracked skin areas with petroleum jelly and cover with cotton gloves, plastic wrap, or another barrier to seal in moisture overnight.
Use a humidifier to pump moisture into dry indoor air.
Take only lukewarm showers, and shower no more than once a day — every other day if possible.
Use moisturizing soaps and liquid body cleansers, which contain more skin-softening emollients than bar soap. "And try to avoid soap on areas you don't need it, like your arms and legs," she says.
Pat yourself dry after bathing and apply moisturizer while skin is still damp, which traps the moisture.
However you respond to dry skin, don't ignore it — especially if you're at midlife or beyond, Dr. Reynolds warns. Untreated dry skin can develop into a type of eczema called nummular dermatitis, another version of the dry-skin eczema often seen on older people's legs. This itchy condition can predispose people to cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection that can spread to the bloodstream.
"Everyone gets dry skin as they age, and the degree to which you get it varies from person to person," she says. "Anyone around 60 or older could be predisposed to this eczema, just based on age-related dry skin."
See your primary care doctor if you develop an itchy, red rash. "If it becomes more severe, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist," Dr. Reynolds says.
One last caveat: drinking water isn't a cure-all to either avoid or treat dry skin. "Keeping up with normal fluid intake is a good idea, but the benefits of skin hydration from drinking water are sometimes overemphasized," Dr. Reynolds says. "A much more effective approach is hydrating your skin from the outside by practicing diligent skin care and moisturizing regularly."
Thick, scaly patches of skin is the most significant symptom of psoriasis. These can happen anywhere on the body and can be painful. While there medications to manage the symptoms, the right diet can do wonders as well. A good psoriasis diet includes fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes as well as lean protein food items. The inclusion of these can help reduce inflammation and reduce the severity of symptoms. However, items such as red meat and processed foods must be avoided.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface. The US National Institutes of Health defines psoriasis as a chronic disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. This leads to the formation of thick, scaly patches of skin, which can be red, inflamed, itchy, and sometimes painful.
Fish is a good food for a psoriasis diet. Image courtesy: Freepik
Can food impact psoriasis?
Diet can significantly impact psoriasis, with certain foods potentially exacerbating or alleviating symptoms. Pro-inflammatory foods such as saturated fats, sugars, alcohol, and gluten may worsen the condition by altering gut microbiota. Conversely,anti-inflammatory foodslike omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and dietary fibres can improve skin health, explains dieticianKejal Shah. A study, published in the journalJAMA Networkstates that diets such as the Mediterranean diet have shown promise in reducing psoriasis severity by providing beneficial nutrients and antioxidants.
1. Fish
Fish is an important part of a psoriasis diet. Fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology observed the function of fish oil in a psoriasis diet. It was seen that there was a significant improvement in symptoms. These fish reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Omega-3 has lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are linked to psoriasis severity.
2. Lean proteins
Another major component of a psoriasis diet is lean protein found in chicken and fish. These proteins are less likely to trigger inflammation compared to red meats. A protein-restricted diet may also help decrease systemic inflammation associated with psoriasis, states a study, published in theJama Network.
3. Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables such as berries, fenugreek, spinach and broccoli are also good foods to add to a psoriasis diet. These are high in antioxidants and rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. These also contain a high amount of dietary fibre. These foods combat oxidative stress and inflammation while promoting overall skin health, states a study, published in the journalNutrients.
4. Legumes
Legumes are very important in a psoriasis diet. Beans and lentils are packed with fibre and protein. Besides this, legumes help regulate blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients without the inflammatory effects of processed meats. This is what makes them perfect for a patient suffering from psoriasis. A study, published in the journalDermatology and Therapy, observed that patients who consumed significantly less sugar, whole grain fibre, dairy, and calcium in the form of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, showed significant improvement in symptoms.
5. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds are also must-have items in a psoriasis diet. These are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They support heart health and may reduce inflammation in the body. It is important to consume flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
6. Whole grains
Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats are great on a psoriasis diet. These grains are high in fibre and help maintain healthy digestion. A study, published in the journal Nutrients also advocates a fibre-rich diet. These foods stabilise blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for overall health as well.
Incorporating these foods into your diet can create a balanced approach that supports skin health and reduces the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
7 foods to avoid while following a psoriasis diet
To effectively manage psoriasis, certain foods should be avoided due to their potential to trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms.
1. Red meat
Red meat such as sausage and bacon must be avoided in a psoriasis diet. Excessive intake of red meat may aggravate the inflammation in psoriasis, states a study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Red meat contains arachidonic acid, which can promote inflammation and may exacerbate psoriasis lesions. High consumption of red meat is also linked to increased levels of inflammatory markers in the body.
2. Dairy products
Milk, cheese and yoghurt are dairy products that must be avoided on a psoriasis diet. Dairy contains a high amount of saturated fats and casein, a protein that some people find difficult to digest, says Shah. This can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and increased inflammation, potentially worsening psoriasis symptoms.
3. Gluten
Wheat, barley, and rye all contain gluten and this is not appropriate for a psoriasis diet. Gluten has been associated with higher rates of celiac disease among those with psoriasis. For individuals sensitive to gluten, its consumption can trigger an autoimmune response that exacerbates skin lesions, explains Shah.
4. Processed foods
Fast food, sugary snacks, and pre-packaged meals are unhealthy items to add to a psoriasis diet. These foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, all of which can contribute to systemic inflammation, states this study, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology. This inflammation may worsen psoriasis symptoms and lead to weight gain, further complicating the condition.
5. Nightshades
Nightshades such as tomatoes and potatoes contain solanine, a substance that may trigger inflammation. While not universally problematic, they have been reported as triggers for some people with psoriasis. These can also impact digestion. In a study published in the journal Dermatology and Therapy, patients reported a 52.1percent decrease in symptoms of psoriasis.
6. Alcohol
Alcohol is not appropriate while dealing with psoriasis as it can make symptoms worse. Alcohol consumption can lead to liver stress and inflammation. It may also disrupt gut health by damaging beneficial bacteria, contributing to systemic inflammation that can aggravate psoriasis symptoms.
Seasonal fruits and vegetables must be part of a psoriasis diet. Image courtesy: Freepik
7. Added sugars
Sugar content in candies, cold drinks and baked goods can cause problems. These foods are high in added sugars and can increase insulin resistance. These promote inflammation through the production of cytokines. This inflammatory response may worsen symptom severity and should not be included in a psoriasis diet.
Avoiding these foods can help reduce inflammation and potentially lessen the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups. Individuals with psoriasis should monitor their diet closely and consult healthcare professionals for personalised dietary recommendations.
Discover doctor-recommended tips to manage psoriasis—including diet, exercise and stress management—for reduced flare-ups and healthier skin
If you’ve just been diagnosed with psoriasis, you’re far from alone: 125 million people worldwide have this condition, with over 8 million in the U.S. alone.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that accelerates skin cell production, leading to red, scaly patches that can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. While there’s no cure, taking the right steps early in your diagnosis can make a big difference in controlling symptoms and reducing flare-ups.
“Psoriasis is not just a skin condition,” explains Gary Goldenberg, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of Goldenberg Dermatology. “It’s a systemic condition with potential internal manifestations, such as arthritis, metabolic syndrome, depression and even a higher risk of cancer. This means management should address both the skin and internal inflammation.”
In this article, we’ll share the top dermatologist and dietitian recommendations to help you better manage psoriasis and improve your quality of life. Read on to learn more.
1. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Chronic inflammation is at the core of psoriasis, and your food choices can either help reduce or exacerbate this inflammation. A 2022 study in Nutrients suggests that eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids—while avoiding alcohol, red meat and processed foods—can help manage psoriasis and related health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
“A well-balanced diet can help manage psoriasis by reducing inflammation, supporting the immune system and improving overall skin health,” says Trista Best, RD, a registered dietitian with Balance One Supplements. “Additionally, having a BMI classified as overweight or obese is linked to more severe psoriasis. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet can significantly help reduce symptom severity.”
Lindsey Bordone, M.D., an assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University, tells EatingWell, “For patients who develop psoriasis after gaining weight, weight loss can be a major driver in reducing symptoms. In some cases, losing weight can lead to significantly less psoriasis or a return to baseline.”
2. Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your daily meals can be crucial in managing psoriasis. Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish and whole grains help reduce inflammation and provide essential nutrients for skin repair and immune support.
“Include leafy greens, berries, tomatoes and colourful vegetables for their antioxidant content,” recommends Best. “Add fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines or plant-based omega-3 sources like chia seeds and walnuts to help reduce inflammation.”
Goldenberg adds that some people may benefit from a gluten-free diet. “Studies suggest that a gluten-free diet may decrease psoriasis symptoms even in individuals without a gluten allergy. Keeping a food diary to identify triggers can also be helpful.”
3. Avoid Trigger Foods
Certain foods can worsen inflammation and trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Bordone explains, “Alcohol and stress are two of the biggest triggers for psoriasis flares. While stress can be challenging to control, avoiding alcohol is a simple yet impactful change you can make.”
Common triggers include processed foods and added sugars, red meat and gluten. “Tracking your food intake and symptoms can help you understand how certain foods impact your condition,” says Best.
4. Stay Active with Regular Exercise
According to a 2022 review, regular exercise offers plenty of benefits for those with psoriasis, including healthy weight management, stress reduction and improved mood. As per the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
“Exercise is essential for managing stress and supporting a healthy immune response,” says Bordone. “Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis, and staying active can help counteract it.”
5. Manage Stress Effectively
Stress is a well-known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Some stress in life is inevitable, but healthy ways to manage it are important for overall health and psoriasis management. “Stress reduction is critical,” says Goldenberg. “Simple practices like meditation, yoga or even deep breathing can help regulate cortisol levels and reduce inflammation.”
6. Get Enough Quality Sleep
It’s no secret that quality sleep is vital for healthy immune function and healthier skin. “Sleep is one of the most important factors for managing autoimmune conditions like psoriasis,” explains Bordone. The National Institutes of Health recommends getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night for optimal health. Some strategies to help support healthier sleep include having consistent sleep and wake times, setting a bedtime routine, avoiding screens before bed and limiting late-night alcohol.
Other Tips for Managing Psoriasis
While these tips can be helpful for those looking to better manage their condition, they’re not the only factors that can impact inflammation and skin health. Here are additional ways you can manage psoriasis:
Support Gut Health: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir and fermented vegetables and prebiotic-rich foods like vegetables, legumes and whole grains to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Get Enough Vitamin D: Many people with psoriasis have low vitamin D levels. Safe sun exposure or supplementation can help. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, and to get individualized advice.
Protect Your Skin: Use sunscreen or protective clothing daily to help prevent sunburns, which can worsen symptoms and cause flare-ups.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your skin hydrated and reduce irritation.
The Bottom Line
Receiving a psoriasis diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, you can take control of your health. To help manage psoriasis, reduce flare-ups and improve your quality of life, eat a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, exercise regularly, manage stress and prioritize quality sleep. Speak with your health care provider or a dermatologist to help create a personalized treatment plan for addressing your psoriasis.
