9 Home Remedies for Psoriasis: Do They Work?

From healthline.com

Every case of psoriasis is unique, so no single treatment method is guaranteed to help every case. That said, certain home remedies may provide relief for psoriasis symptoms.

The following are nine home remedies that have shown some promising results in providing relief for psoriasis symptoms and may provide some benefit to you.

1. Warm baths

A warm (not hot) bath can be soothing to the skin, especially if you’re living with psoriasis. You can try adding Epsom salt, mineral oil, colloidal oatmeal, or olive oil to help with itching and irritation.

The following tips will help ensure that your bathing doesn’t worsen your symptoms:

• Only bathe or shower once per day.
• Limit showers to 5 minutes and baths to 15 minutes.
• Use a moisturizing soap.
• Pat yourself dry and avoid rubbing.
• Apply a moisturizer following the bath.

Learn about oatmeal or Epsom baths for psoriasis.

2. Aloe vera

You can apply creams made from aloe vera plant extracts directly to the skin to help reduce discoloration, scaling, itching, and inflammation.

In a 2018 studyTrusted Source, researchers tested the effects of creams with either 50% propolis and 3% aloe vera or a placebo on over 2,000 people. They concluded that aloe vera may help lessen psoriasis symptoms.

The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends using creams that contain up to 0.5% aloe vera. You can apply these creams up to 3 times per day.

Learn more about using aloe vera for psoriasis.

3. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids may help decrease inflammation in your body. This may be beneficial for psoriasis symptoms since systemic inflammation is the underlying cause of the itchy, discolored flakes.

Omega-3s can be found in a variety of foods, including:

• flaxseed oil
• nuts
• seeds
• soy
• fatty fish

Fish oil is also available as a dietary supplement.

However, existing research on omega-3 fatty acid supplements and psoriasis is mixed. According to an older 2014 meta-reviewTrusted Source of 15 trials evaluating fish oil for the treatment of psoriasis, 12 trials showed a benefit in psoriasis, and three showed no benefit.

In a 2017 survey of 1,206 people with psoriasis, about 45% of those who added omega-3 fatty acids to their diet saw an improvement in their skin.

However, a 2019 meta-analysisTrusted Source found there’s not enough evidence to support the use of fish oil supplements to treat psoriasis.

If you decide to take fish oil supplements, read the label carefully and consider talking with a doctor first. They may advise you to avoid taking them if you have other medical conditions or take other medications.

Learn more about omega-3 and psoriasis.

4. Turmeric (curcumin)

Turmeric is a spice used extensively in Indian, Middle Eastern, and other Asian cuisines. This distinctive yellow spice has an active ingredient called curcumin. Researchers have looked into the effects of curcumin on various skin disorders, including psoriasis.

In a 2018 review of studiesTrusted Source, researchers concluded that enough evidence exists to support the use of curcumin to help treat psoriasis. However, they did note the need for more extensive, placebo-controlled studies.

In a 2021 studyTrusted Source, researchers tested curcumin’s effects on mice. They found that it could help alleviate the symptoms in the mice test subjects, which is promising for potential human application.

Learn more about turmeric and psoriasis.

5. Oregon grape

Oregon grape or Mahonia aquifolium is an antimicrobial herb in the barberry family.

In a 2018 reviewTrusted Source, the authors found seven studies supporting the use of Oregon grape to treat psoriasis. These studies determined it safe and effective in treating psoriasis symptoms.

You can find Oregon grape in ointment and cream forms online or at some pharmacies or health stores.

Learn more about Oregon grape.

6. Maintaining a moderate weight

If you’re living with psoriasis, your chances of developing a comorbidity (a condition that develops due to or in association with an existing condition), such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or obesity are higher.

Some ways to lose or maintain a moderate weight include:

• eating more whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables
• eating lean meats and other healthy proteins
• eating less sugar
• cutting out highly processed foods
• exercising consistently

Find out your ideal weight based on your height and age.

7. Using a humidifier

Try using a humidifier to keep the air in your home from getting too dry. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which may help to prevent dryness that can irritate your already sensitive skin.

Experts say that dry, cold air is a potential trigger for psoriasis is a trigger for some people. If you find your psoriasis symptoms worsen during winter months or in dry air, a humidifier may help.

Learn more about humidifiers.

8. Stress-relieving activities

Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Finding ways to reduce and manage your stress can potentially prevent flares or lessen their severity.

While no studies have been done to determine whether the following activities have a direct effect on psoriasis symptoms, they may help you to reduce stress in general, which may have some benefits to your psoriasis symptoms:

• meditation
• yoga
• deep breathing exercises
• aromatherapy
• writing in a journal

Learn more ways to relieve stress and anxiety.

9. Moisturisers

Keeping your skin moist plays an important role in managing your psoriasis symptoms. Moisturizers can help keep the skin from flaking and itching.

In fact, organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) note that moisturizer creams and emollients are standard therapy for psoriasis, alongside other therapies.

You should apply moisturizer at least once per day, following showers, in the morning, or before bed. You may find it helpful to establish a routine for moisturizing.

However, make sure you avoid moisturizers with heavy amounts of fragrance, dyes, or other additives. These can irritate the skin.

Learn more about psoriasis-safe moisturizers.

Frequently asked questions

The following sections provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

What foods clear up psoriasis?

No diet is currently recommended for psoriasis. But you may find that eating a diet that promotes a moderate weight and includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent flares or worsening symptoms. It may also help prevent comorbidities from developing.

What triggers psoriasis?

There are several potential triggers for psoriasis. It’s important for you to learn your triggers, track them, and try to avoid them as much as possible. Not everyone will have the same triggers, but some common ones include:

• stress
• injury to the skin
• illness
• dry air
• weather
• certain foods
• alcohol

How can I get rid of psoriasis quickly?

Though home remedies may help soothe your symptoms, your best bet to clear psoriasis quickly is to talk with a doctor about formal treatments. A doctor can provide therapies that may help get your psoriasis under control and stop a flare-up.

The bottom line

Home remedies aren’t a replacement for your doctor’s prescriptions to treat psoriasis. But remedies like fish oil supplements, Oregon grape, and warm baths may help alleviate your symptoms.

However, there aren’t enough large, well-controlled clinical trials to prove that these remedies work well for everyone.

Anecdotal evidence or results from studies that only include a small number of people should be taken cautiously and with some skepticism. Keep in mind that what works for one person might not work for you.

Always tell your doctor before you start a new treatment or home remedy for psoriasis. Stop using any treatment that causes irritation, pain, or worsening of your symptoms.

https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/moderate-to-severe/8-home-remedies-for-psoriasis-do-they-work?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=psoriasis&utm_content=2023-07-25&utm_term=s:hl_n:pso&apid=39239719&rvid=058431b717dcfa59c0cdd27cd0a9313769e8b3dd4ad59d88efd0ded7ddb4774e 

Vitamin D Might Ease the Agony of Psoriasis

From usnews.com

People who have psoriasis may want to get their vitamin D levels checked.

New research suggests that blood levels of the so-called "sunshine vitamin" may affect the severity of their condition. In psoriasis, skin cells build up and form dry, itchy, sometimes painful patches.

While synthetic vitamin D creams are an emerging therapy, the study suggests that a diet rich in vitamin D or oral supplements could also ease psoriasis symptoms, said Rachel Lim, a study author and MD candidate at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.

If the role of vitamin D can be proved after further study, “it may present a very accessible and safe addition to the treatment regimen of the millions of Americans living with psoriasis,” Lim said.

About 8 million Americans have psoriasis.

For the study, researchers analyzed 491 cases in a U.S. national health and nutrition survey, including 162 from 2003 to 2006 and 329 from 2011 to 2014.

Their analysis found that lower vitamin D levels and deficiency were significantly associated with more severe psoriasis.

Patients with the highest average vitamin D levels had the least amount of psoriasis-affected skin. Those who had the most affected area had the lowest average vitamin D levels.

The amount of vitamin D a person would need to consume isn’t clear.

“While we can’t talk about the optimal vitamin D intake, there are current recommendations regarding safe amounts of vitamin D supplementation to avoid toxicity,” Lim said. “People may want to speak to their doctors about starting vitamin D supplementation safely.”

There could also be other contributors to a person’s psoriasis. Skin pigment inhibits vitamin D synthesis, Lim said. And psoriasis affects many people with darker skin tones.

“Coupled with socioeconomic factors and barriers to proper care, we could be misattributing the increasing psoriasis severity we found with lower vitamin D levels solely to lower vitamin D levels, instead of to more complex societal constructs obstructing care,” Lim said.

The study is a reminder that lower vitamin D is associated with worse psoriasis and that supplementation might help, said Dr. Deirdre Hooper, a dermatologist with Audubon Dermatology in New Orleans. Hooper was not involved in the study.

“Are we going to take away from this that every person with psoriasis should supplement with vitamin D regardless of their blood levels?" she said. "I think this is an unanswered question, but I think that what I will probably do based on the study is suggest that my psoriasis patients supplement with vitamin D.”

While it appears vitamin D will improve a person’s psoriasis, it can also help with some associated health issues, including diabetes and high blood pressure, Hooper said.

Sunshine is a major source of vitamin, but it's not safe to get all the vitamin D you need from the sun, because its UV rays can cause skin cancer.

And, Hooper said, although a person might be able to get enough of the nutrient through diet, “the best way to consume vitamin D is to take a supplement.”

Some foods that contain vitamin D are fatty fish, like salmon and mackerel, and egg yolks. Some fortified foods like cereal, milk and orange juice also contain the nutrient.

But, be aware that food sources can be unreliable because how much vitamin D a particular food contains may vary.

If a person does have psoriasis and hasn’t received medical care, Hooper recommends seeing a dermatologist.

Psoriasis can affect a person’s daily life and potentially interfere with sleep.

A variety of treatments are available, including creams, light therapy and both oral and injectable drugs.

“It's evolving constantly, which is great because it's a common disease and it's super frustrating and it's associated with real systemic problems,” Hooper said.

Lim was scheduled to present her findings on Tuesday at a meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, in Boston. Findings presented at medical meetings are considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-07-25/vitamin-d-might-ease-the-agony-of-psoriasis 

Your PsA Treatment Failed—Now What?

From healthcentral.com

Medications for psoriatic arthritis are rarely one and done. Here’s guidance on how to know it’s time for a change 

The right treatment plan is crucial to control symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic, inflammatory condition characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. But many people living with PsA don’t respond to first-line treatments prescribed by their rheumatologist at the time of diagnosis. “There is no single therapy that is best for everyone with psoriatic arthritis,” says Veronika Sharp, M.D., an affiliated clinical professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and chief of the division of rheumatology at Santa Clara Valley Healthcare in San Jose, CA. “Patients may have to try multiple medications to find the type that works best for them.”

Like many other autoimmune diseases, psoriatic arthritis comes with potentially debilitating and life-changing consequences due to the pain and challenges with physical activity. And although we have many more treatment options now than we did 20 years ago, none of them are curative.

Current guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation advise the use of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor biologics, such as infliximab or adalimumab, as the first-line treatment for PsA. They suggest that people whose symptoms don’t improve with their first TNF inhibitor should try another TNF inhibitor.

But there is no one-size-fits-all approach for treating psoriatic arthritis. And if your first PsA treatment didn’t work, there are many reasons to stay hopeful. “There has been tremendous progress in treatment of psoriatic arthritis in the past few years,” says Dr. Sharp. “While doctors continue to use traditional disease modifying drugs (DMARDs) and TNF inhibitor biologics, which have been around for years, there are now a number of other therapies with different mechanisms of action, including several other classes of injectable biologics and new oral medications.”

Let’s dig into the second-round PsA treatments worth learning about.

                                                                                                                   GettyImages/puckons

Injectable Biologics

While there have been several new treatments for psoriatic arthritis approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within the last five years, Michelle T. T. Ngo, D.O., a rheumatologist with Providence St. Jude Heritage Medical Group in Fullerton, CA, highlights the IL-17 inhibitor and IL-23 inhibitor therapies—both injectable biologics—as “game changers.”

There are three IL-17 inhibitors approved by the FDA to treat psoriatic arthritis: secukinumab, ixekizumab, and brodalumab. They all work in the same way—by targeting the IL-17A receptor, they block its inflammatory pathway to help reduce inflammation and improve psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

As for IL-23 inhibitors, risankizumab was approved for the treatment of active PsA in adults in 2022. A phase 2 study of the biologic tildrakizumab, which also targets IL-23 and stops the release of inflammatory, showed a significant improvement of most joint- and skin-related symptoms (with few side effects), and phase 3 studies are currently ongoing. 

“These more targeted therapies essentially allow rheumatologists to get a handle on inflammation without blocking as much of the immune system that is important for cancer and infection detection,” Dr. Ngo explains.

Oral Medications

The newest class of drugs approved by the FDA to treat psoriatic arthritis is called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These are taken daily in pill form and work in a more targeted way than traditional disease-modifying psoriatic arthritis treatment options, by blocking immune response pathways believed to be specific to PsA. This reduces the inflammation that fuels psoriatic arthritis (and other inflammatory diseases).

Most recently, upadacitinib was FDA-approved for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis in adults who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. The results of phase 3 trials were promising, with participants reporting improvements in joint pain and physical function.

Deucravacitinib, a new tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor, works in a similar way to JAK inhibitors and appears to be as safe. Participants in a phase 2 study experienced symptom improvement, and phase 3 studies are currently ongoing.

Doubling Up on Biologics

Several case studies as well as promising findings from phase 2 clinical trials suggest that combining two biologics could be an alternative strategy to improve patient response to treatment.

Researchers working on the VEGA trial found that combining the IL-23 inhibitor guselkumab and the anti-TNF agent golimumab was more effective than either drug used alone as an initial treatment for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis—another autoimmune-driven condition—with almost no adverse side effects. The AFFINITY trial is now trying the same combination therapy for patients with active PsA.

Reports have also highlighted the possible benefits of combining a TNF inhibitor and an IL-17 inhibitor in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and PsA, as well as the combination of a TNF inhibitor and an IL-23 antagonist for PsA. However, these combinations require controlled clinical trials.

How to Know When It’s Time to Discuss a Change

Generally, doctors still follow a stepwise approach to treat PsA. “We recommend starting off with the less immunosuppressive therapies and working our way up systematically to protect our patients from the secondary side effects of autoimmune treatment, namely their increased risk for infections,” says Dr. Ngo. “Our focus in rheumatology is treating to target disease stability.”

If you’re trying a new med and not seeing results, be patient. “Often, it takes three to six months to see meaningful clinical change when we start a PsA patient on a new therapy, so it’s not uncommon to see flare ups during this time,” Dr. Ngo says. That’s because the origin and development involve many different mechanisms (including combinations of genetic and environmental factors), and scientists haven’t yet been able to pinpoint all the different genes involved in disease activity. As a result, it’s common for PsA patients to try multiple treatments before discovering the right pathway, says Dr. Ngo.

All medications come with possible side effects—in the psoriatic arthritis field these range from diarrhoea and nausea with oral meds to an increased risk of infections with biologics, per the Mayo Clinic. “Side effects are something we take seriously in rheumatology because of the multisystem effects of our medications,” says Dr. Ngo. “Routinely, we will counsel the common side effects that may come with treatment. Often, medications will have a ‘warming up’ period which may come with mild symptoms that gradually wane over the course of treatment, hopefully within two to four weeks.”

After four weeks, if any side effects are intolerable—to the point where they affect a patient's daily activities—Dr. Ngo says it would be reasonable to consider discussing other treatment options. “This is of course as long as there are no existing drug interactions or other underlying medical conditions which may prevent the rheumatologist from switching to another drug easily,” she adds. “We will treat to target and tailor the drugs to fit our patients' needs and we do so by having lengthy discussions and shared medical decision making.”

Side effects aside, if you’re not seeing an improvement in your symptoms after six to 12 months, Dr. Ngo believes it’s reasonable to take a step back and re-assess if other conditions may contribute to your symptoms.

Generally, if you’re having flare ups of your PsA symptoms that are longer, more frequent, or more severe than usual, it may be time to reassess your treatment plan. Working with your doctor will help you gain the best possible control over your condition.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/your-psa-treatment-failed-now-what 

Psoriasis: Recognizing its Symptoms

From sportskeeda.com

Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from the persistent, autoimmune skin disorder known as psoriasis. The fast accumulation of skin cells that results in the development of large, red areas coated in silvery scales is one of its defining characteristics.

This condition typically affects the skin, but it can also affect how someone feels in general. Understanding the signs and symptoms of this skin condition is essential for early diagnosis and successful treatment. In this article, we will explore the common signs and symptoms associated with psoriasis.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis?

1. Red Patches of Skin

Raised, reddish spots on the skin are one of the defining signs of this skin condition. These patches can form everywhere on the body, but the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and genitalia are where they most frequently occur. Depending on how bad the problem is, the patches may be tiny and isolated, or they may be large and widespread.

2. Silvery Scales

Typically, a thick covering of silvery-white scales covers the red spots of psoriasis. Skin cells that have grown too quickly build up on the surface and flake off, causing these scales. If scratched or plucked at, the scales may be unpleasant and uncomfortable or even bleed.

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3. Dry and Cracked Skin

The skin that is afflicted by this disease frequently becomes dry, rough, and prone to breaking. The skin could feel constrictive and look like it's going to burst. Skin cracks can hurt and occasionally result in bleeding.

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4. Itching and Discomfort

Itching and irritation are common symptoms of this skin condition in the afflicted regions. From mild to severe, the itching might get worse as it flares up. Constant scratching can make the problem worse and raise the danger of infection.

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5. Nail Changes

Moreover, this disease can damage the nails, which can vary their appearance in many ways. Pitting (little depressions or dents), discoloration, thickness, cracking, and detachment of the nail from the nail bed are a few examples of these modifications. Psoriasis of the nails can be difficult to treat and make it painful or difficult to go about regular tasks.

6. Joint Pain and Stiffness

Psoriatic arthritis is a disorder that develops when psoriasis affects the joints in addition to the skin. Psoriatic arthritis frequently presents with symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, edema, and restricted range of motion. Each joint in the body can be affected, and if ignored, it might cause long-term joint damage.

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7. Scalp Psoriasis

On the scalp, psoriasis can appear as red spots, silvery scales, and irritation. Furthermore, dandruff-like flakes from the scalp may appear, giving the appearance of a severe case of common dandruff. Due to the presence of hair, scalp psoriasis can be difficult to maintain, but there are therapies available that specifically target this region.

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8. Emotional Impact

Those who suffer from this condition may experience severe emotional effects. Feelings of humiliation, poor self-esteem, and even melancholy or anxiety may result from the condition's apparent form as well as from the possibility of discomfort and self-consciousness.

It is crucial to take care of the mental well-being of people who suffer from this skin condition and provide them with the assistance they need.

You have to identify the type (Image via NutritionFact.in)

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It's vital to remember that everyone experiences these symptoms slightly differently. During times of remission and flare-ups, the intensity of symptoms can change over time. If you believe you may have this skin condition, based on the symptoms listed above, it is essential to see a dermatologist or healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis and recommended course of action.

In conclusion, successful management of psoriasis depends on being aware of its signs. Common symptoms of this condition include silvery scales, dryness, itching, nail changes, joint discomfort, and emotional effects. People who suffer from this skin condition can improve the quality of their lives and lessen the condition's negative effects on their physical and mental health by getting treatment as soon as possible after being diagnosed.

https://www.sportskeeda.com/health-and-fitness/psoriasis-recognizing-symptoms

What to Avoid Putting on Psoriasis Skin: Hot Water and More

From healthline.com 

Many common skin care products can help you manage psoriasis, but others can cause irritation and flare-ups of symptoms. It’s important to read skin care ingredient labels, plus know what to look for and avoid before you choose a product.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that shows up on the skin. It can lead to painful patches of raised, shiny, and thickened skin.

The patches often appear red or pink with white or silver scales on light skin tones. On darker skin tones, they may be salmon-coloured, violet, or sometimes difficult to see, according to experts. 

Here are seven things to consider not putting on your skin if you have psoriasis.

1. Lotions with alcohol

It’s important to keep your skin moist by applying creams and lotions. Dry skin often makes psoriasis symptoms worse.

But you may want to choose your lotion carefully. Many contain ingredients can dry out your skin even more. One of the biggest ingredients that can cause dry skin is alcohol.

Companies often use alcohols like ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and methanol to make a lotion feel lighter or to act as a preservative. These alcohols can dry out your skin’s protective barrier and make it difficult to lock in moisture.

When it comes to lotions for psoriasis, your best bet is one that’s thick and oily, like petroleum jelly or shea butter. These help trap moisture.

Unscented lotions that include ceramides are also better for people with psoriasis. Ceramides are the same type of lipids that we have in the outer layer of our skin.

Apply your moisturiser within a few minutes of bathing, showering, and washing your hands. You may also want to apply it right before you go to bed.

2. Fragrance

Fragrances are added to products to make them smell good. For some people, though, they can cause skin irritation.

To avoid making psoriasis worse, aim for a fragrance-free product when choosing a skin care or hair care product, the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) suggests. Try to avoid spraying perfumes directly on your skin as well.

3. Sulphates

Sulphates are ingredients often used in shampoo, toothpaste, and soap to help the product foam up. But some types of sulphates can cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin and conditions like psoriasis.

Because of this, you may want to avoid products containing sodium lauryl sulphate or sodium laureth sulphate. If you’re unsure, look for product packaging that specifically says “sulphate-free.”

4. Wool or other heavy fabrics

You may want to consider wearing light fabrics that won’t irritate your skin. Heavy fabrics like wool can irritate your already sensitive skin and even make you itchy.

Instead, choose gentler fabrics that allow your skin to breathe, such as cotton, silk blends, or cashmere, the NPF advises. Or, if you want to wear wool for warmth, layer it over a less irritating fabric.

5. Tattoos

Getting a tattoo requires making tiny cuts in the skin. This repetitive injury can trigger a psoriasis flare.

In one case, it even resulted in skin lesions all over the body, not just where the tattoo was applied, the NPF reports. This is known as Koebner phenomenon. It can result from any traumatic injury to the skin.

Some tattoo artists may not agree to tattoo a person with psoriasis, even when someone doesn’t have active plaques. Some states even prohibit tattoo artists from tattooing a person with active psoriasis or eczema.

Despite the risks, some people with psoriasis still get tattoos. If you’re considering a tattoo, always talk with your dermatologist before making the decision.

6. Too much sunlight

You may have heard that vitamin D from the sun can benefit your skin. The ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight slow the growth of skin cells, which is good for psoriasis.

Phototherapy is a treatment for psoriasis that involves carefully exposing your skin to UV light. Phototherapy is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and uses UVA and UVB light. This process is also done with the assistance of a dermatologist.

However, moderation is key. If you want to naturally expose your skin to the sun, it’s essential that you don’t go overboard.

Aim for about 15-30 minutesTrusted Source at a time, which is the amount of time a doctor would typically perform phototherapy. Also remember to use sunscreen. Sunburn may trigger psoriasis symptoms and can increase your risk of skin cancer.

While tanning beds may seem similar to phototherapy, you should avoid using them. Tanning beds use only UVA light, which isn’t effective for psoriasis. They also greatly increase your risk of skin cancer.

The NPF doesn’t support the use of indoor tanning beds in place of phototherapy

7. Hot water

Use warm water instead of hot water every time you bathe or shower. Hot water can be incredibly drying and irritating to your skin.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends taking just one daily shower or bath. They also recommend keeping your showers to 5 minutes and baths to under 15 minutes.

The takeaway

Injuries, dry skin, and sunburns can all trigger psoriasis flare-ups, so it’s important that you take excellent care of your skin.

When considering a new skin care treatment, try to find out if it’s been endorsed by dermatologists and check the ingredient list of any products you’re considering. Be wary of any product claiming it can “cure” psoriasis.

If you’re unsure about a particular household or skin care product, check to see if it has earned the NPF’s Seal of Recognition.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin. Certain skin care products can worsen the symptoms or trigger flares.

Always check the label of any product to make sure it does not contain a harsh ingredient. Knowing how to take care of your skin will help you keep psoriasis symptoms at bay.

Frequently asked questions

Here you’ll find answers to additional questions about safe things to put on your skin if you have psoriasis.

Is Vaseline good for psoriasis?

Thick and oily emollients like Vaseline are good for skin with psoriasis. In fact, research from 2021Trusted Source shows they can help protect the skin’s barrier function. “Barrier function” refers to the skin’s ability to protect your body from the external environment while also keeping in moisture.

What products trigger psoriasis?

Any scented skin care products or those containing alcohol or sulfates may trigger psoriasis.

What is the best lotion to put on psoriasis?

The NPF recommends a number of moisturizing and emollient lotions for skin with psoriasis. For over-the-counter products, consider choosing something with ceramides or salicylic acid.

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