Weight Loss Interventions Linked to Clinically Meaningful Psoriasis Improvement

From patientcareonline.com

By Sarah Morrow, MSc, MRCP

Data from a new meta-analysis shows weight loss therapies were associated with clinically and statistically significant improvements in psoriasis severity. Study investigator sheds light. 

“In dermatology clinics, what we're finding is that increasingly patients are asking us, “What can I do for my skin apart from these medications? What else can I do? How can I take control of my condition?” We're particularly finding that they're very interested in how they can change their diets, and whether things like weight management and exercise can help,” Sarah Morrow, MSc, MRCP, a clinical doctoral fellow in the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences at the University of Oxford, said in an interview with Patient Care Online. Morrow sat down with Patient Care to discuss a systematic review and meta-analysis she co-authored of 13 randomized controlled trials evaluating weight loss interventions in persons with psoriasis.

The analysis included behavioural strategies—diet alone and diet plus exercise—as well as pharmacologic weight loss therapies. Participants in weight loss programs lost approximately 7 kilograms more than those in control groups. Importantly, weight reduction was associated with clinically meaningful improvements in psoriasis severity.

Patients undergoing weight loss interventions were approximately 60% more likely to achieve PASI 75—a 75% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score—compared with controls. Significant improvements in quality-of-life measures were also observed, a finding highlighted as particularly meaningful by the study’s patient panel.

When researchers compared intervention types, they did not identify a meaningful difference between diet alone, diet plus exercise, or medication-based approaches. Instead, outcomes appeared to correlate with the magnitude of weight loss achieved rather than the specific method used.

Morrow explains that the study was designed to address both growing patient interest in lifestyle modification and clinician uncertainty about the strength of the evidence. For physicians managing patients with psoriasis—particularly in primary care settings—the findings suggest that weight management may serve as a clinically relevant adjunct to traditional psoriasis therapies.

https://www.patientcareonline.com/view/weight-loss-interventions-linked-to-clinically-meaningful-psoriasis-improvement

How to Get Better Sleep When You Have Psoriasis

From everydayhealth.com

From itchy skin to ongoing stress and anxiety, psoriasis symptoms can make getting a good night’s sleep difficult.

As many as 50 percent of people with psoriasis have sleep problems at least once a month — and another 11 percent say their sleep is disturbed on more than half of each month’s nights. And when sleep is disrupted night after night, it can take a real toll on both mental and physical health. It can play a role in fatigue, stress, and even increased inflammation and disease severity.

Taking steps to better control your symptoms and make your sleep space as comfortable as possible may help reduce night-time flare-ups and help you get better shut-eye. Here’s a look at dermatologist-backed tips for managing psoriasis and improving sleep quality.

Optimize Your Skin Care Routine Before Bed

Itching and pain are common reasons people with psoriasis struggle to sleep. That's why dermatologists focus first on treating its root cause: your psoriasis. When it comes to night-time psoriasis management, the goal is simple: Calm irritation and lock in moisture so you can rest more comfortably.

Adjust Your Treatment Plan

If plaques or rashes are keeping you awake, it may be time to review your medications. Your doctor may adjust your medications or introduce a new one, whether they’re topical creams, medicines taken by mouth, or biologics, says Chris Adigun, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in private practice in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. “As a dermatologist, I’m going to focus on the skin disease component of your care first. The best thing I can do in my role is optimize disease control,” she says.

When psoriasis is under control, it should affect 1 percent or less of your skin, says Steven Daveluy, MD, a professor and director of Wayne State University School of Medicine's dermatology residency program in Detroit. He specializes in treating patients with skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. “We have such great options for psoriasis, that everyone's skin should be clear or almost clear. The right treatment plan can significantly reduce night-time itch and help you sleep better,” Dr. Daveluy says.

Take a Warm Bath or Shower Before Bed

A warm — never hot — shower or bath can help loosen and remove scales, which may otherwise make itchiness worse. This can be especially helpful if you have visible plaques or build-up on your skin, says Lawrence Green, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C.

Moisturize Immediately After Bathing

Timing matters, and you should apply moisturizer right after bathing, says Dr. Green. He recommends using thick, heavy creams or ointments — think jar-based products rather than pump lotions — to help seal in moisture and reduce itching overnight.

Petroleum-based moisturizers, like Vaseline, tend to work best for psoriasis, particularly on stubborn or itchy areas. “These heavier-cream moisturizers help prevent the scales from building up because that, again, can be causing a lot of itch,” he says.

Some people do well with using salicylic acid, lactic acid, or urea creams or lotions to help soften thick scales, says Mary Wu Chang, MD, an associate professor of dermatology and paediatrics at the University of Connecticut.

Look for “sensitive-skin,” or “fragrance-free” labelling, since these products have the least risk of irritation, too, Daveluy says.

Use Topicals That Target Itch Relief

Using prescription topical treatments, including topical steroids, should also help to soothe your psoriasis itch, Daveluy says. But for lingering itch, use of some over-the-counter anti-itch products may offer short-term relief, like pramoxine and menthol, he says.

Take an Oral Antihistamine or Sleep Aid if Needed

Antihistamines don’t treat psoriasis-related itch, because this itch isn’t driven by histamine, a chemical your immune system releases. But taking antihistamines can help some people fall asleep. Look for over-the-counter sedating antihistamines or natural sleep aids like melatonin, Dr. Chang says. “This would be more of an add-on medication to use from time to time, rather than a cure for problematic sleep from psoriasis,” she says.

Dr. Adigun says you can take an antihistamine for just a few nights as you bridge the gap with your new treatment plan, which could take up to two weeks.

Keep Fingernails Trimmed

Short, smooth nails reduce the risk of skin injury, especially if you scratch in your sleep. Scratching can worsen inflammation and may even trigger new psoriasis patches through the Koebner phenomenon, a response in which skin trauma (like scratches) can cause psoriasis to spread to areas of your skin that hadn't been affected in the past, Green says.

As an extra layer of protection, wear cotton gloves if you find you’re scratching yourself at night, Daveluy says. “[Gloves] can also help keep creams or ointments on the hands, if you have psoriasis there,” he says.

Create a Psoriasis-Friendly Sleep Environment

Even with well-controlled psoriasis, your sleep environment can soothe your skin — or make night-time itchiness worse. Dermatologists recommend creating a sleep space that stays cool, breathable, and gentle on skin through small adjustments:

Keep the Room Cool

Sleeping in a cooler room — aim for around 68 degrees F — can help prevent overheating and sweating, which can make itching worse and disrupt sleep, says Chang. A fan gently blowing across the bed may also feel soothing. This is especially important for children with psoriasis, who can become hot and uncomfortable if they’re over-bundled at night, she says.

Choose Breathable Fabrics

Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or bamboo, because they're less likely to irritate psoriasis-prone skin, Daveluy says. He notes that natural fabrics are generally better than synthetic ones, which can trap heat and moisture.

Unlike atopic dermatitis, psoriasis is generally less sensitive to fabric types or thread count, Green says. Your goal is to pay attention to which fabrics may be rubbing against plaques or triggering itchiness, he suggests.

Do Laundry With Gentle Detergent

Scented detergents and fabric softeners contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, Daveluy says. Dermatologists recommend using fragrance-free, dye-free products like Tide Free and Gentle or All Free Clear, Chang says. “Also skip the fabric softener and use dryer balls to bounce around in the dryer and soften fabrics,” she says.

Practice Good Sleep Hygiene and Relaxation Techniques

When you’re facing symptoms like itchiness, anxiety, or stress at night, your bedtime routine is going to make a difference. That’s why dermatologists talk to their psoriasis patients about sleep hygiene, Green says. “It’s about creating an environment that is in your favour when you're already working against something,” he says.

Some good sleep habits are:

• Set up — and stick to — a consistent bedtime and waking schedule.
• Make sure your room is dark and quiet.
• Limit your exposure to bright lights in the evening.
• Turn off your electronics about an hour before bedtime.
• Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature.
• Unwind with quiet reading, low-impact stretching, or listening to soothing music.
• Limit caffeine and avoid having it later in the day.
• Don't eat large meals for dinner.
It’s worth doing an audit of sorts of your overall health, too, Adigun says. For instance, if you smoke, try to quit. If you drink alcohol, cut back on how much you have. And aim to get regular exercise. “All of these factors can improve psoriasis severity – but they can also improve sleep quality,” she says.
See Your Doctor if Sleep Problems Persist
If itching or pain are keeping you awake, talk with your dermatologist, Green says. “Everything that psoriasis is doing to your body besides being visible on the skin, you should mention to your dermatologist. They can help you through it,” he says.
They may:
• Adjust your current topical or systemic treatment plan.
• Recommend a different type of medication.
• Talk with you about healthy sleep habits in more detail.
• Refer you to specialists who can check for underlying sleep disorders.
While itching and pain are common reasons for worse sleep in people with psoriasis, they're not the only causes. People with psoriasis can develop other health conditions — such as anxiety and depression, sleep apnoea, and restless legs syndrome — all of which affect sleep, Daveluy says.
The Takeaway
• Fine-tuning your skin care routine with dermatologist-recommended psoriasis treatments and consistent moisturizing can help reduce night-time itching and improve your sleep quality.
• Creating a comfortable sleep space may also help you sleep better. For instance, lower the bedroom temperature and choose breathable fabrics.
• Practice habits that can help sleep. For example, wake up and go to sleep at the same times each day, and try relaxation techniques. Good sleep hygiene can positively impact your overall psoriasis management and sleep.
• Don't hesitate to talk with your dermatologist or healthcare providers if your psoriasis symptoms continue to disturb your sleep. Your doctor can provide tailored treatment options and remedies to address any underlying sleep disorders you might have.
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• https://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/how-to-get-better-sleep-when-you-have-psoriasis/

Scientists uncover why psoriasis can turn into joint disease

From sciencedaily.com

A hidden immune cell journey from skin to joints may explain psoriatic arthritis

Researchers have figured out how psoriasis can quietly turn into joint disease for some patients. Immune cells formed in inflamed skin can travel through the blood and reach the joints, where they sometimes trigger inflammation. The key difference lies in the joint’s ability to keep those cells in check. This insight could help doctors identify warning signs early and prevent lasting joint damage.

Roughly 20 to 30 percent of people with psoriasis eventually develop painful joint inflammation. This condition, known as psoriatic arthritis, can cause lasting damage to bones and joints if it is not treated. For years, doctors did not fully understand why psoriasis progressed to joint disease in some patients but not in others.

Researchers from the Department of Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology at Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), have now identified the specific immune cells responsible and uncovered how they move from the skin into the joints. Their findings point toward new ways to detect and prevent psoriatic arthritis before permanent joint damage occurs. The study has been published in Nature Immunology.

Scientists discovered that immune cells from psoriatic skin can migrate to the joints and ignite inflammation under the right conditions. Spotting these cells early could help stop psoriatic arthritis before it causes permanent damage. Credit: Shutterstock

How Immune Cells Travel From Skin to Joints

Psoriasis causes inflammation in the skin that leads to the formation of specialized immune precursor cells. These cells do not stay confined to the skin. According to the researchers, they can enter the bloodstream and later reach the joints.

"These cells can migrate from the skin to the bloodstream and from there to the joints," explains Dr. Simon Rauber, head of the working group at Department of Medicine 3. However, he notes that their presence alone does not automatically cause joint inflammation. "It is interesting that the mere migration of immune cells into the joint is not sufficient to trigger inflammation there."

Why Joint Inflammation Develops in Some Patients

What happens inside the joint itself plays a critical role. Once immune cells arrive, they interact with fibroblasts, which are connective tissue cells that normally help maintain balance and protect the joint. In people who go on to develop psoriatic arthritis, this protective response is weakened.

"The protective function of these connective tissue cells is usually considerably reduced in people who develop psoriatic arthritis," says Prof. Dr. Andreas Ramming, team leader and deputy head of department at Department of Medicine 3. "As a result, the inflammatory cells that enter the joint cannot be brought into check, and go on to trigger an inflammatory reaction in the joint." This breakdown helps explain why joint disease develops in some psoriasis patients but not others.

Early Warning Signs and New Prevention Strategies

The researchers also found that these migratory immune cells can be detected in the blood before joint inflammation begins. This discovery could make it possible to identify patients at higher risk earlier than ever before.

In the future, treatments may focus on targeting these immune cells before they reach the joints, stopping inflammation before it starts. Such approaches could help prevent psoriatic arthritis rather than treating damage after it has already occurred.

Research Funding and Support

The research is being funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) within the framework of the CRC/TRR 369 - "DIONE: Degeneration of bone due to inflammation," by the European Research Council (ERC) as part of the project "Barrier Break," and by the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research in Erlangen (IZKF) as part of the project "Tissue imprinting of skin-derived immune cells in psoriatic arthritis."

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260204121549.htm 

Is it true that … red light therapy masks prevent wrinkles?

From theguardian.com

While there may be benefits to the treatment, anti-ageing probably isn’t one of them – which is something better left to the professionals 

Red light therapy, where LED lights are shone on your skin, has been around for a while,” says Afshin Mosahebi, a professor in plastic surgery at University College London. But what was once an expensive treatment you’d go to a professional to receive is now becoming widely available in the form of light-up masks you can wear at home.

“Reasonable reports show that the treatment is good for wound-healing,” says Mosahebi. This is why it is recommended for inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis and psoriasis, as it increases circulation, decreases inflammation, and improves cell regeneration.

When it comes to preventing wrinkles though, there’s less proof. “One of the things we know that happens as we age is the fibroblast cells become a little bit sleepy. The theory is the light will stimulate them into action to produce collagen, which is something we need for thicker, plumper, less wrinkly skin.” But there’s no substantial evidence to back this up, he says. And if it does work, professional sessions are far more likely to be effective as they’re stronger than the at-home masks.

                                                             Illustration: Becky Barnicoat/The Guardian

Mosahebi also warns there is limited research into using red light therapy as a repeated, long-term treatment – something manufacturers encourage with the masks. “We don’t know what happens when people use it in the long term. We don’t know if it actually causes more aged skin because light is the main cause of ageing, or whether it has any effect on skin cancer.”

Mosahebi says he believes red light therapy is safe, but that the best way to delay the onset of wrinkles is to make sure your diet is nutritious, drink enough water, exercise regularly, and wear a nourishing moisturiser and high protection sunscreen. If you’re not doing those things, it’s not worth shelling out for a mask.

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/jan/26/is-it-true-that-red-light-therapy-masks-prevent-wrinkles

Dermatology nurse says avoid long hot showers to avoid dry skin

From devonlive.com

Flaky, dry skin is common in winter, but a dermatology expert has shared her top tips to protect our skin

As the winter chill continues, some of us are thinking about how we can get the most out of our skincare routine - especially those who suffer from dry skin.

Paula Oliver, a dermatology nurse consultant, has provided expert commentary on why our skin tends to become dry and flaky during the colder months.

She also advises on when we should start adapting our skincare routine. She said: "As temperatures drop, our skin often struggles with increased dryness and flakiness as the cold winter air holds far less moisture than warmer air.

"This, combined with indoor central heating, can strip hydration from the skin. As a result, the skin's natural moisture barrier weakens leading to dry, irritated, flaky skin - prone to flare-ups of conditions like eczema and psoriasis."

She added: "It's important to start adapting your skincare routine as soon as you feel the weather starting to get colder - ideally in early autumn. This allows your skin time to adjust before the harsher winter weather arrives."

                                                                                                 (Image: Getty Images)

How should we adapt our skin care?

Paula said: "It's essential to use products that not only hydrate but also help to soothe and protect the skin. Moisturising regularly and switching to a richer emollient can help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and it's important to reapply throughout the day as needed to keep your skin feeling soft and protected.

"I'd also recommend applying an emollient immediately after a bath or shower to trap moisture in. Try to avoid long, hot showers - lukewarm water is best to prevent the skin from being stripped of its natural oils.

"Indoor heating can also take a toll on your skin by drying out the air, so using a humidifier is a great way to add moisture back into your environment and help your skin stay hydrated.

"When you're heading outdoors, make sure to wear gloves and scarves to shield the skin from the harsh winter wind, but stick to soft, breathable fabrics like cotton wherever possible.

"Rough materials, like wool, can easily rub against the skin, causing increased irritation - exacerbating conditions like eczema. Layering cotton underneath these harsher fabrics can also protect your skin while helping you to stay warm."

When is dry skin a warning sign of something more worrying than just winter skin?

"Dry skin is common in winter, but if you're noticing persistent redness, itching, flakiness, cracking, or soreness that doesn't improve or ease with the right regular care, it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as eczema or psoriasis," Paula explained.

"In these cases, it's important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to get the right treatment and prevent further irritation."

What products are available?

For those looking for an emollient option, the EPIMAX® range from Aspire Pharma is available for anyone with eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin, to buy over the counter and online without prescription.

Priced from just £3.99 for a 100g tube (or 125g tub for EPIMAX® Ointment) they are perfect for those looking for a small emollient to take with them on the go.

The EPIMAX® range is also available in 500g tottles (top-down bottle) and tubs, for a more substantial size to sit in the bathroom cabinet. All products are free from: SLS, gluten, and perfumes.

Cetraben is also created with a special blend of ingredients to help manage dry and eczema-prone skin. It locks in moisture to help protect against irritants and water loss. It is unscented and contains glycerin. It is available in a 475ml bottle on Amazon for £12.08.

Another brand marketed towards dry and sensitive skin is the Aveeno daily moisturising cream, which is fragrance free. A 400ml pot is available on Amazon for £8.95.

https://www.devonlive.com/whats-on/shopping/dermatology-nurse-says-avoid-long-10770519

Try These Top-Recommended Tips for Psoriatic Arthritis Pain

From healthcentral.com

Ease the ache with expert-approved tips for managing pain and stiffness 

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) pain is driven by inflammation that can affect joints and tendons. Inflammation may start where tendons attach to bone, known as enthesitis, leading to discomfort in areas like the shoulders, elbows and knees, says Bret Sohn, M.D., a rheumatologist at Stamford Health in Stamford, CT. As inflammation spreads into the joints, the immune system attacks synovial cells that produce joint-lubricating fluid, causing red, swollen joints and stiffness—often worse after rest or inactivity. The good news? There are effective ways to manage PsA pain, starting with the strategies here.

                                                                                             GettyImages/kieferpix

Heat Therapy: When Warmth Works Best

Heat helps chronic psoriatic arthritis pain by reducing stiffness, improving function, and suppressing inflammatory mediators. Try morning hot showers, apply heating pads before workouts, experiment with warm pool exercises, or explore paraffin wax treatments. However, avoid heat on new, acute pain—it can worsen inflammation during a PsA flare. Also, “any topical use of heat should be discussed with your physician,” says Julius Birnbaum, M.D., an associate professor of rheumatology at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania.

Cold Therapy Brings Relief

For acute arthritis pain and swelling—like after exercise, during a flare-up, or in the initial few days after an injury—applying a cool compress can help. “Cold therapy can reduce inflammatory proteins in a joint and provide modest pain relief in these situations,” says Dr. Sohn. Cold also constricts blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the area to relieve swelling, and it interrupts pain signals as they travel across nerve fibres. Press an ice pack (or a bag of frozen veggies in a pinch) to the sore area for 15 minutes a few times a day.

Topical Relief Options

                                                         GettyImages/simarik

Topical pain relievers may irritate psoriasis plaques, experienced by one in three people with PsA. “Topical treatments aren’t typically recommended for PsA joint pain,” says Dr. Sohn. However, many people with psoriatic arthritis also have osteoarthritis, which can contribute to symptoms. In those cases, topical NSAIDs such as diclofenac or ketoprofen may help, particularly for knee or hand pain. These creams contain the same active ingredients as oral NSAIDs but with lower gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney risks because they aren’t absorbed through the digestive system.

Gentle Movement Reduces Pain Over Time

When you’re uncomfortable, you might feel inclined to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity. But regular, consistent movement actually helps calm inflammation. And strengthening your muscles eases the burden on your joints. “In general, exercise and physical activity can reduce pain and improve overall function for people with psoriatic arthritis,” says Dr. Sohn. “Studies demonstrate that physical activity correlates inversely with disease activity, meaning that more activity is associated with less pain and inflammation.” Consider low-impact workouts like yoga, tai chi, swimming, cycling, or walking.

Pacing Your Activities Protects Joints

The benefits of movement outweigh the risks, but it’s important to avoid overdoing it. “Excessive mechanical stress, especially at the spots where tendons attach to bone, may trigger or worsen the inflammatory process in people with psoriatic arthritis. There’s no clear threshold where beneficial exercise ends and harmful overloading begins,” says Dr. Sohn. That’s why it’s important to start slow and ramp while listening to your body: Be consistent with your exercise routine, but don’t push through pain. Break workouts or strenuous tasks into shorter intervals with regular breaks and rest days in between.

Easing Morning Stiffness

                                                     GettyImages/GoodLifeStudio

People with psoriatic arthritis often experience “gelling,” a type of stiffness after rest that can last more than 30 minutes, says Birnbaum. Medications and gentle movement help, but small routine changes can also make mornings easier. The Arthritis Foundation suggests using heat overnight or setting an electric blanket to warm up before waking. Keep topical or oral NSAIDs by your bed. When your alarm goes off, take or apply medication, then do gentle stretches in bed to get your joints moving before standing. A brief warm shower can also help loosen stiff muscles and joints.

Supportive Tools and Daily-Life Modifications

Assistive devices can make everyday tasks easier when you have sore joints or lower range of motion. An occupational therapist can help you identify tools that suit your specific needs. “Examples include splints or braces, adaptive footwear, or a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit to relieve pain,” says Dr. Sohn. You can also adapt your home environment with modifications like safety grips and grab bars in the bathroom, an electric jar opener or toothbrush, a sock puller, a grabber tool for out-of-reach items, or a voice-to-text function on your computer or phone.

Pain Management During a Flare

During a psoriatic arthritis flare, staying in close contact with your rheumatologist is key. An individualized plan may include a short course of NSAIDs or steroids, or adjustments to your current medications, says Dr. Sohn. Rest is also essential, since added physical stress can prolong recovery. Avoid heat on painful areas, which may worsen swelling; use ice packs or topical NSAIDs instead. Finally, note what was happening before the flare—such as stress, injury, or dietary changes—to help identify triggers and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

Building Your Personalized Pain Plan

                                                              GettyImages/pocketlight

During a psoriatic arthritis flare, staying in close contact with your rheumatologist is key. An individualized plan may include a short course of NSAIDs or steroids, or adjustments to your current medications, says Dr. Sohn. Rest is also essential, since added physical stress can prolong recovery. Avoid heat on painful areas, which may worsen swelling; use ice packs or topical NSAIDs instead. Finally, note what was happening before the flare—such as stress, injury, or dietary changes—to help identify triggers and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/psa-pain-management-strategies?ap=nl2060&rhid=67ec2b8321f52bf01b0cca01&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGfeujDbp0w1RsMzNzh6lxjMhu61Su7IvOjPGvG8FbB2SNxLvoby-Xi6hXEelboMDuNM6QAI9nNrz2gZsnawo4q_8Ll3k8k7RheIPl3gWJYotowe3g