The 4 Best Convenience Foods to Stock Up On If You Have Psoriasis

From eatingwell.com

These convenient frozen and canned staples are packed with nutrients that help reduce inflammation and support gut health and skin wellness for people living with psoriasis 

• KEY POINTS
• Certain nutrients and dietary patterns help psoriasis by reducing inflammation.
• Canned and frozen foods like sardines, berries, lentils and spinach are great options.
• Reducing stress, eating consistently and moving your body also help.

Did you know that psoriasis affects more than just the skin? It’s a chronic condition that’s closely connected to overall immune health and inflammation throughout the body. While diet doesn’t cause or cure psoriasis, research suggests that certain eating patterns may help reduce inflammation and potentially reduce the severity of a flare-up. Experts often recommend focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods like colourful fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, healthy fats and omega-3-rich fish.

Eating a nutrient-dense diet can sometimes feel expensive or difficult to maintain, especially when fresh produce and healthy ingredients spoil quickly and can require extra preparation. Fortunately, healthy eating doesn’t require everything to be fresh. Convenience foods like frozen and canned can be incredibly convenient, budget-friendly and nutritious additions to a psoriasis-supportive eating pattern. According to Danielle Smiley, RDN, frozen and canned foods can be excellent tools for supporting consistency, affordability and nourishment. “If healthy foods are easier to access and prepare, people are more likely to eat them regularly,” she notes.

                                                                             Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell Design

Here are a few of the best frozen and canned foods that dietitians recommend stocking up on if you have psoriasis.

1. Canned Sardines

 “Canned sardines are a great option for people with psoriasis, as they’re packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help minimize the inflammatory response associated with psoriasis,” says Amy Brownstein, M.S., RDN. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, help reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of inflammatory compounds in the body. In psoriasis, the immune system becomes overactive, which triggers inflammatory pathways that accelerate skin cell turnover and contribute to redness, itching and plaque formation.

According to Brownstein, research has linked Mediterranean-style eating patterns—which emphasize fatty fish, olive oil, fruits, vegetables and legumes—with lower psoriasis severity and reduced inflammation. “These foods provide antioxidants, fibre, polyphenols and healthy fats that may support a calmer inflammatory response,” adds Brownstein.

2. Frozen Berries

Frozen berries are loaded with antioxidants, including anthocyanins and vitamin C, which may help to combat oxidative stress linked to inflammation. Since berries are frozen shortly after harvest, they retain many of their nutrients and are available year-round, making them very convenient.

In addition to their antioxidant content, berries provide fibre. “Fibre-rich eating patterns also support gut health, which is important because emerging research suggests a strong gut-skin connection in inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis,” says Samaria Garrett, M.S., RDN.

Fibre acts as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria. When these bacteria ferment fibre, they produce short-chain fatty acids, which may help strengthen the gut lining, regulate immune function and reduce systemic inflammation. Supporting gut health through consistent intake of fibre-rich foods may help support skin health and overall psoriasis management.

3. Canned Lentils

Canned lentils are an affordable, versatile staple that provides plant-based protein, fibre, antioxidants and several other important nutrients. Lentils support gut health and help regulate blood sugar levels, both of which may influence inflammation.

Brownstein notes that canned lentils deliver vitamin E, which may help protect against cellular stress and support the skin barrier. In inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, oxidative stress is believed to contribute to increased inflammation, skin irritation and accelerated skin cell turnover. That’s why nutrients that support skin integrity, like vitamin E, are especially important. The skin barrier helps retain moisture, protects against environmental irritants and defends against bacteria and allergens. When the barrier becomes compromised, skin may become drier, more irritated and more prone to flare-ups. Vitamin E may help to support the skin barrier by protecting skin cell membranes from damage and helping maintain skin hydration and resilience.

4. Frozen Spinach

Frozen vegetables like spinach are a convenient way to boost your intake of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants without worrying about food waste. Smiley recommends frozen spinach because it contains nutrients associated with inflammation support and overall wellness. Spinach is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress, a process linked to chronic inflammation and inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis.

Frozen spinach is also a good source of vitamin A, which is a nutrient that plays an important role in skin cell growth and repair. Since psoriasis involves rapid skin cell turnover, nutrients that support healthy skin, such as vitamin A, may be especially beneficial. Additionally, spinach contains vitamin K, folate, magnesium and iron, which support circulation, immune function and overall cellular health.

Frozen vegetables can make it easier to consistently include produce in meals, especially during busy weeks. “One thing I often say is: nourishment that is accessible and repeatable will almost always outperform nutrition perfectionism,” says Smiley.

Other Tips for Psoriasis

While nutrition can play a supportive role, managing psoriasis involves more than just food. Experts recommend taking an inclusive approach to support overall inflammatory health.

• Prioritize stress management: Chronic stress may influence inflammation, sleep quality and psoriasis flare severity. Brownstein recommends practices like stress management, exercise and quality sleep to help reduce inflammation.
• Focus on consistent meals: Smiley encourages eating regular, balanced meals rather than cycling between restriction and overeating, which can affect blood sugar and energy levels.
• Get enough movement: Regular physical activity can support immune health, reduce stress and promote overall recovery. Even small lifestyle shifts may positively affect quality of life and inflammation levels.

Our Expert Take

Psoriasis is a complex inflammatory condition, and while there’s no single food that can cure it, research suggests that anti-inflammatory eating patterns rich in omega-3 fats, fibre, antioxidants and colourful plant foods may help support overall inflammatory balance and skin health.

Convenient staples like canned sardines, lentils, frozen berries and frozen spinach can make it easier to nourish your body consistently and conveniently without relying solely on fresh ingredients. Combined with healthy lifestyle habits, these foods may help support overall wellness and quality of life for people living with psoriasis.

https://www.eatingwell.com/best-convenience-foods-for-psoriasis-11989964

Can Housecleaning Irritate Your Psoriasis?

From everydayhealth.com

Keeping your home clean can be more complicated when you’re living with psoriasis. While cleaning itself isn’t considered a direct trigger of psoriasis symptoms, some aspects of the standard housecleaning routine can irritate already sensitive skin and increase the risk of flare-ups.

Most conventional cleaning products contain fragrances and harsh chemicals that may dry out or irritate the skin, while repetitive scrubbing or pressure on areas like the knees and elbows can worsen psoriasis symptoms in some people. Environmental irritants around the home — including dust mites — may also contribute to itching and, in turn, cause plaques to spread.

It’s still possible to get your weekly cleaning sessions in, though. With a few simple adjustments — like using gentler products and protecting your skin during chores — you can make housecleaning more psoriasis-friendly.

1. Choose Your Cleaning Products Strategically

If you’re grappling with symptoms like a rash or dry, flaky plaques, be aware that many cleaning products contain ingredients that can aggravate your sensitive and inflamed skin, says Sandy Johnson, MD, a dermatologist in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

“Oftentimes, people with psoriasis will have lesions on their skin that can make harsh chemicals even more irritating and enter the skin, causing more problems,” Dr. Johnson says.

That’s why you should stock your cleaning caddy with products that have “gentle formulations,” says Sheilagh Maguiness, MD, the director of paediatric dermatology at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and the president of the Society for Paediatric Dermatology.

That means choosing cleaning products that are “fragrance-free” instead of “unscented” (which may contain chemicals to mask the scent) or “chemical-free” (which often includes essential oils that can also irritate the skin), Dr. Maguiness says.

You should also scan product labels for ingredients that can dry out the skin, including alcohol, dyes, parabens, and sulfates.

Choose a pump spray over an aerosol, and watch out for harsh ingredients, preservatives, irritants, and allergens, Maguiness says.

If you don’t need to do heavy-duty cleaning and disinfecting, even everyday household items — like lemon, baking soda, or vinegar — can get the job done, Johnson says.

                                                                                                       Getty Images; Everyday Health

2. Wear Gloves to Protect Your Hands

Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands while washing the dishes or working with cleaning products, especially if you have nail psoriasis.

“Wearing gloves is a great way to protect the hands from irritants, allergens, and the impact of chronic water exposure,” Maguiness says.

She recommends non-latex, waterproof, powder-free nitrile gloves. You can double up if your hands are a concern for psoriasis and use a cotton liner underneath.

But gloves should not stay on for too long. “Gloves should be removed and hands moisturized promptly after use, as prolonged occlusion with sweat inside gloves can itself be irritating,” she says.

3. Let Cleaning Tools Do the Heavy Lifting

Psoriasis can worsen with skin injury in a process known as the Koebner phenomenon, where trauma like scratches, itching, or cuts can cause plaques to spread to completely unaffected areas.

Repeated scrubbing, scratching, pressure on the knees or elbows, or even small abrasions may contribute to new plaques forming, says Chris Adigun, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in private practice in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Dr. Adigun notes that while normal cleaning activities are usually fine, minimizing unnecessary skin trauma is still a good idea. She recommends using knee pads or a gardening pad if you need to kneel while cleaning floors or bathrooms. You can also cover up affected areas with loose-fitting clothes so they aren’t exposed to cleaning products.

Breaking chores into shorter, manageable cleaning sessions may help reduce sweating, friction, and joint strain — especially for people living with psoriatic arthritis.

Sweating can be particularly irritating for some people with inverse psoriasis, which commonly affects skin folds.

Appliances like dishwashers, vacuums with HEPA filters, long-handled scrubbers, and spray mops can do the heavy lifting, saving you from the repetitive strain on your body, Johnson says.

4. Protect Your Skin Post-Cleaning

What you do after cleaning matters, too. Adigun recommends rinsing your hands — or showering after heavier cleaning sessions — to remove any lingering cleaning products, sweat, dust, or debris from the skin.

“If you are going to be exposed to cleaning products, you definitely should shower to remove the cleaning products and immediately moisturize and tend to any active areas of psoriasis,” says Adigun.

Warm water is generally preferable to hot water, which can further dry out or irritate the skin. Applying moisturizer immediately after washing and while your skin is still slightly damp may help support the skin barrier, too.

Maguiness recommends using a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer or barrier cream after cleaning, while Johnson says products like petroleum jelly can help act as a protective barrier before and after exposure.

5. Be Mindful of Allergies and Airborne Irritants

Allergens aren’t considered a primary psoriasis trigger in the same way they are for eczema, but they may still contribute to itching and skin irritation in some people — especially those who also have allergies.

Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens are not typically part of the psoriasis inflammatory pathway. But bear in mind, allergic reactions can make the skin itchier, and repeated scratching or friction may trigger the psoriasis-spreading effect of the Koebner phenomenon, Adigun says.

Cleaning can also stir up dust, mould spores, and airborne particles that can irritate the skin or airways. “I do recommend opening windows and making sure you’re set up for success with good airflow to minimize the chance of respiration concerns and airway irritation,” Maguiness says.

6. Know When to Call Your Dermatologist

Some mild dryness or irritation after cleaning should improve with moisturizing, staying on top of your psoriasis treatments including topicals and oral medication, and gentler cleaning habits, Adigun says.

But symptoms like a worsening rash or plaques, persistent burning, cracked skin, bleeding, or signs of infection may warrant a call to your dermatologist.

The Takeaway

• Many cleaning products have harsh ingredients that can irritate sensitive, psoriasis-prone skin. Choose brands labelled fragrance-free (not “unscented” or “chemical-free”) to reduce your exposure.
• Because repetitive friction, scratching, and minor skin trauma can trigger the Koebner phenomenon, wear protective clothing and use knee pads and tools like vacuums, spray mops, and long-handled scrubbers.
• After cleaning, rinse off lingering cleaning products with warm water and apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer or barrier cream while the skin is still slightly damp to help support the skin barrier.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/tips-for-safe-housecleaning/

What Is Psoriasis? Symptoms, Causes And Treatments

From forbes.com

By Suzie Glassman

An estimated 7.5 million people in the U.S. live with psoriasis, making it one of the most common immune-mediated disorders in the country. Immune-mediated conditions occur when overactive immune cells attack normal cells within the body, causing inflammation. In the case of psoriasis, this manifests as a rash, which most often appears as raised red or silvery scales, or plaques, on the skin—but the rash can also present as small white pustules or shiny smooth lesions in more rare forms of the disease.

“Despite the chronic nature of psoriasis, there’s no reason for anyone to suffer,” says Lawrence Green, M.D., clinical professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine. “There are many effective treatments, and delaying care can lead to other serious conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and depression.”

Below, learn everything you need to know about psoriasis, from types and causes to diagnosis and available treatments.

                                                                                                                   Getty Creative

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition resulting from an overactive immune system and is often characterized by thick, red skin and silvery plaques. Despite its rash-like appearance, psoriasis is not contagious. Normal skin cells grow and shed over a month. In the case of psoriasis, however, skin cells grow faster, piling up on the skin instead of shedding and causing plaques that can be irritating, painful and itchy.

Different Types of Psoriasis

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NFP), there are five types of psoriasis. These include:

• Guttate psoriasis: Affecting up to 8% of people with psoriasis, this appears as small, raised, round spots that are sometimes scaly and often appear on the arms, legs and trunk.
• Pustular psoriasis: This type is characterized by small, white pustules on the skin that often develop quickly and in tandem with fever, chills, itching, fatigue and muscle weakness. It’s essential to see a doctor as soon as these signs appear.
• Plaque psoriasis: The most common type of psoriasis, affecting up to 80% of those with the condition, plaque psoriasis causes raised, scaly patches of skin and can show up anywhere on the body. Patches may vary in colour depending on a person’s skin tone. For example, on dark skin, plaques can appear purple, dark brown or grey. On lighter skin, plaques typically appear more reddish.
• Inverse psoriasis: Around 25% of people with psoriasis experience shiny, smooth lesions (rather than scaly) ranging from bright red to purple or brown, depending on skin tone. Lesions appear in skin folds like armpits, under the breasts, or in the groin.
  People may experience inverse psoriasis simultaneously with one of the other types, and friction or sweat can exacerbate symptoms.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis: This rare form of psoriasis causes intense swelling, redness, and, sometimes, skin shedding in sheets. This is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to increased heart rate, body temperature changes and severe itching and pain, so it’s imperative to see a doctor immediately if symptoms appear.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is also associated with psoriasis. This condition causes inflammation and pain in the joints, tendons and ligaments that connect to bones. About 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, according to the NFP, and many develop the condition about ten years after a psoriasis diagnosis. However, it’s possible to develop psoriatic arthritis without ever developing psoriasis.

“Psoriatic arthritis can cause irreversible joint damage,” says Mary Stevenson, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at New York University Langone Health. “This is why seeing a board-certified dermatologist if you have psoriasis is essential. There is no cure, but there are medications that can lessen the severity and slow the progression.”

Common Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis

While psoriasis can appear on any part of the body, the most common places are in skin folds, the scalp, genitals, face, hands, feet and nails. Psoriasis can begin at any age but is most common in adults ages 50 to 69.

Symptoms on the skin range from red, scaly, itchy patches to pus-filled bumps, depending on the type. A study published in Reumatologia found that around 50% of people with plaque psoriasis experience nail symptoms like deformation, pitting, discoloration, and splitting from the nail bed.

Symptoms in the hands and feet, such as thickened skin and deep cracking, may also appear and can be painful, according to the study.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but genetics, stress and lifestyle choices may play a role, according to a global psoriasis report by the World Health Organization (WHO). “It can run in families, so the more family members who have it, specifically your parents, the more likely you are to have it,” says Dr. Stevenson. “Smoking can also increase your risk.”

What Triggers Psoriasis?

There are a few known triggers that can worsen existing symptoms of psoriasis or cause new ones to appear:

• Stress is a major trigger for psoriasis and can make itching worse, according to the NFP. Also, the appearance of psoriasis can be stressful for those embarrassed by the condition. “I’ve had patients tell me they’ve been kicked out of swimming pools by lifeguards who think they have a contagious rash,” says Dr. Green.
• Injury, like a scrape to the body in people with the genetic tendency to develop psoriasis, can also cause the immune system to develop an overactive response, adds Dr. Green.Sunburns, vaccinations, and bug bites can also have a similar effect due to the Koebner phenomenon, in which new psoriatic skin lesions appear after an injury to otherwise healthy skin, according to Dr. Stevenson. While uncommon, some studies have linked psoriasis flares after vaccination for influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and yellow fever. The Covid-19 vaccine has also triggered reactions in a small number of documented anecdotal cases, according to a series of case studies in Cureus, but more research is needed into this potential link.
• Viruses and illness are other triggers because they affect the immune system. The NPF says psoriasis can flare due to an ear infection, bronchitis, tonsillitis or a respiratory infection, and strep throat can trigger the onset of guttate psoriasis in children.
• Certain medications may cause psoriasis flares, including common blood pressure medications called beta-blockers and lithium, so patients on these medications should be aware, says Dr. Stevenson.
• Dietary factors, such as diets high in refined sugars, sodium, meat and alcohol have been implicated in increasing inflammation and psoriasis symptoms, according to a 2020 study in the International Journal of Molecular Science.
• The weather can also be a trigger. Cold weather brings less sunlight and humidity, as well as potentially more stress and illness. “There may also be some other environmental triggers we aren’t aware of, but the underlying [disposition] to get psoriasis has to be there, or it won’t develop,” says Dr. Green.

The NPF recommends patients keep track of their psoriasis triggers to anticipate flares and know when to seek treatment.

Psoriasis Risk Factors

According to a 2019 review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, extrinsic risks of psoriasis come from the external environment and include air pollutants, certain medications, lifestyle factors, illness or skin injury. Intrinsic risks come from certain medical conditions, such as suffering from obesity, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, mental stress and dyslipidemia, a condition where lipid levels are too high or too low.

Smoking and alcohol consumption are associated with psoriasis, according to research. A 2012 study in the American Journal of Dermatology reports smoking to be a risk factor for developing psoriasis.

Untreated psoriasis causes inflammation throughout the body, which, according to Dr. Green, can also contribute to heart damage and high blood pressure.

Complications of Psoriasis

As mentioned above, psoriasis can progress into the chronic skin and nail disease, psoriatic arthritis. 

In addition to that risk, the American Journal of Medical Care (AJMC) notes that some individuals may be at an elevated risk for certain cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma, lymphoma and basal cell carcinoma. A higher chance of being impacted by more severe disease may also be associated with psoriasis, including cardiovascular disease, endothelial dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity and diabetes. 

Research into the condition of psoriasis continues, as scientists still aren’t fully clear on the connection between psoriasis and other more serious conditions. To learn more about what potential psoriasis complications might look like for you or a loved one, consult your doctor or a dermatologist.

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Psoriasis is typically diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist. “Psoriasis is usually diagnosed clinically by a skin exam, including [an examination of] your scalp and nails,” says Dr. Stevenson. “Your clinician will also ask you questions about your [health] history, including joint pain, as psoriasis is associated with psoriatic arthritis. [Psoriasis] can also be diagnosed by biopsy, where a sample of tissue is sent to the lab.”

What Does Psoriasis Look Like and Where is it Found on the Body?

Plaque psoriasis, typically the most prevalent type of psoriasis, often appears as thick, scaled patches on the skin in a silvery colour, popping up on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back and potentially other areas of the body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).

Scalp psoriasis can be thick or thin, with thicker patches creating a greater risk for hair loss. This type of psoriasis can be found on the scalp, forehead, neck or ears. Other types, such as nail psoriasis, include yellow-brown colouring on the fingernails or toenails, and are associated with crumbling or pitted nails. Another, guttate psoriasis, most common in children and often brought on by strep throat, can appear as small, scaly spots. 

Additional types of psoriasis can have other visual characteristics and appear in different spots on the body, however many will have the scaly appearance mentioned above.

Psoriasis vs. Eczema: What's the Difference?

While often confused with eczema, psoriasis is believed to be an autoimmune condition, while eczema is commonly associated with allergic conditions, such as asthma or food sensitivities. 

Eczema is often itchier than psoriasis and presents itself most commonly in folds of the body, such as the inside of the elbows or back of the knees. Psoriasis may also show up on the knees or elbows, as well as the scalp, buttocks and face. (It’s important to note that both conditions can show up in the same areas in some cases.) Psoriasis lesions are also typically more well-defined with sharper borders and thicker scaling.

Expert-Recommended Treatments for Psoriasis

Treatments for psoriasis fall into four categories: topicals, phototherapy, systemics and complementary or integrative medicine, according to the NPF. The choice of therapy depends on the severity of the disease, says Dr. Green.

Topical treatments are creams applied directly to the affected area, slowing the rapid production of skin cells and reducing inflammation. The most common topical medications are topical steroids, which contain an anti-inflammatory ingredient to heal swelling and redness and usually require a prescription from your doctor. However, topical steroids can’t be used in some areas because they may cause side effects like bruising, pigmentation and redness.

In 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new, nonsteroidal topical cream for adults for the first time in 25 years called tapinarof. “Patients can use this treatment from head to toe without any limitations, which is great for those who have mild to moderate psoriasis,” says Dr. Green.

The FDA has also approved several over-the-counter (OTC) topical treatments for psoriasis, such as lotions, shampoos, tars and bath foams that often contain coal tar and salicylic acid.

Phototherapy is a type of light therapy that a dermatologist may prescribe if topical treatments are ineffective. This therapy involves regularly exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light—, particularly UVB light. UVB rays are found in natural sunlight and slow the growth of skin cells.

There are several types of phototherapy, and it’s most effective when patients receive therapy at least two to five times a week for several weeks, according to the AAD. Phototherapy is not prescribed for patients with skin cancer or in the case of any condition or medication that makes them more sensitive to UV light.

Systemic treatments are prescription drugs taken orally or through an injection or infusion and are usually prescribed when topicals and phototherapy are unsuccessful. These drugs, known as biologics or biosimilars, work throughout the body to target specific molecules inside immune cells and correct the overactive immune response causing psoriasis flares.

Biologics and biosimilars include medicines that come from live organisms, including animal cells and microorganisms like yeast and bacteria. Both treatments are highly regulated by the FDA and deemed by the organization to be safe and effective.

Can You Prevent Psoriasis Flares?

“The best way to prevent psoriasis flares is to follow your dermatologist’s treatment recommendations, moisturize well and avoid trauma to the skin. Lowering stress can also help,” says Dr. Stevenson.

The AAD suggests practicing stress-relieving activities, such as yoga, meditation and attending support groups. Lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, avoiding skin exposure to dry, cold weather, treating infections and avoiding cutting yourself while shaving can also help prevent flares. Dietary considerations, such as increasing fruits and vegetables and avoiding foods that are high in fat, sugars, sodium and meat as well as limiting processed foods, may play an important role in minimizing psoriasis symptoms, according to an article in Immunity.

What is the Best Medication for Psoriasis?

The best medication for psoriasis will depend on your unique experience, such as the type and severity of symptoms. As mentioned above, topicals, phototherapy and systemic treatments are used, with a combination of these treatments typically providing the most promising results.

For the best possible outcome, it’s important to regularly visit with your general practitioner or a dermatologist to manage symptoms.

Are Home Remedies Effective for Psoriasis?

In addition to prescription treatments, the AAD notes that OTC products, shampoos, creams, ointments and bath solutions for psoriasis containing the active ingredient coal tar may reduce symptoms of psoriasis and slow the growth of skin cells. Mild corticosteroids or hydrocortisone can also assist in decreasing itch and inflammation. However, either should first be tested on a small area of the skin before using regularly, as skin irritation is possible.

Other OTC solutions, like scale softeners with salicylic acid, can remove and soften scales, as well as reduce swelling. Anti-itch products containing ingredients like calamine or menthol may also assist with treatment.

Dermatologists also recommend using cold compresses and moisturizing the skin every day to help alleviate itching, in addition to taking medication and applying ointments and creams as directed.

When to See a Doctor About Psoriasis

Dr. Green recommends seeing a doctor as soon as signs of psoriasis appear on the skin, even if it’s just one flare.

Seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible is critical, as even people with mild psoriasis (covering less than 3% of their body) may have significant internal inflammation, according to the NPF.

While most types of psoriasis aren’t life-threatening, seek immediate medical care if you notice an increased heart rate, fatigue and skin shedding in sheets, as those are signs of erythrodermic psoriasis and can be fatal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How common is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is common. According to the AAD, about 2% of people in the U.S. have psoriasis, while the National Psoriasis Foundation attributes the condition to over 8 million Americans and between 2% and 3% of people, or 125 million, worldwide.

Is there a permanent cure for psoriasis?

While there may not be a permanent cure just yet, treatment can keep psoriasis at bay, allowing some with the condition to go into “remission” (meaning they have clear skin and no symptoms) for up to months and even years.

Treatment can help keep psoriasis stable, clear and control flare-ups. While psoriasis can be unpredictable and may return, knowing your personal triggers can help you to best avoid it.

Is psoriasis contagious?

No, psoriasis is not contagious. A large part of the possibility of developing psoriasis often comes down to genetics.

How do you know if it's dandruff or scalp psoriasis?

With dandruff, you may find white flakes and experience a tight or dry feeling in the scalp. Psoriasis is typically characterized by red, scaly plaques that are well-defined. In lighter skin, psoriasis can sometimes have a silver-white appearance, while those with darker skin tones may find plaques appear a bit darker in colour, such as purple or grey. 

Treatments for dandruff and scalp psoriasis can overlap. If you’re unsure, you can visit your primary care doctor or a dermatologist to determine a diagnosis.

What should you avoid putting on psoriasis?

You should avoid harsh skincare products that may irritate the skin, such as lotions containing alcohol. Products with alcohol can dry out the skin and worsen psoriasis. Opt for mild soaps instead of those that are scented or contain other harsh ingredients.

https://www.forbes.com/health/conditions/psoriasis/?utm_source=synd&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=msnadvisorgallery