Why Less Stress Means Better Skin With Psoriasis

From healthcentral.com 

Life is full of unavoidable drama—but a few changes to your routine can help curb stressors and calm your PsO symptoms

If you have psoriasis (PsO)—a chronic, autoimmune condition that causes itchy, painful plaques on your skin—chances are, your doctor has already told you how stress can make your symptoms worse.

Whether it’s from a major ordeal (such as moving to a new house or getting divorced) or a minor one (like the customer service call that puts you into an endless loop of automated options), emotional pressure of all kinds can build up and have physical consequences. In fact, “stress is a trigger for many inflammatory diseases,” points out Christopher Sayed, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, in Chapel Hill, NC. Which can set you up for vicious circle of symptoms and your reaction to them, since experiencing a PsO flare also causes stress. So, how do you escape the maddening disease-stress loop?

You’re not powerless, says Aaron Farberg, M.D., a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, in Dallas, TX. Managing your stress levels can help you get the upper hand on your PsO, and slow or even stop its progression. “If you can decrease or better control your stress, you have a great opportunity to really help control your disease state,” he adds.

Now, you’re probably thinking: Let’s do this, sign me up! Here’s all you need to know about the stress-inflammation connection—and how specific lifestyle changes throughout your day can help you stave off the next psoriasis flare and even slow (or stop) the progression of your disease.

How Stress Makes PsO Worse

According to research, there’s a well-established connection between how someone responds to stress and their genetic makeup and environment. However, people with PsO seem to be particularly sensitive to stress. Scientists aren’t exactly sure why, but studies suggest that people with psoriasis secrete less cortisol, a hormone that regulates the body’s response to stress, plus more epinephrine (or adrenaline), a stress hormone, and norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a role in the body’s fight-or-flight response, than people without the disease. As a result, the production of PsO-initiating mast cells and inflammation-promoting cytokines increase and trigger flares, as well as contribute to the progression of the disease.

What’s more, another study published in May 2024 further supports an association between chronic stress and PsO and a related condition, psoriatic arthritis (PsA, which affects the joints of roughly 30% of people with psoriasis). Researchers psychologically tested and tracked 1.6 million Swedish men who’d enlisted in military service between 1968 and 2005. The study showed that young men who didn’t handle stress well were 1.3 to 1.7% more likely to develop PsO and 1.2% to 1.5% more likely to develop PsA.

Managing Stress Through Diet and Exercise

Stress is unavoidable, and it’s a normal part of life—we all know that. But controlling your response to it may help you minimize PsO flares and its progression, says Allison K. Truong, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist specializing in psoriasis at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles.

Besides being a top skin specialist, Dr. Truong also happens to have PsO. After experimenting on herself with holistic therapies and Western medicine, this expert says she has dramatically reduced her own symptoms—which included thick psoriatic plaques on her scalp and nail psoriasis so severe, her nails were crumbling off.

During this self-discovery process, Dr. Truong learned that she could relieve her stress best by focusing on what she can control: her diet and the amount of exercise she gets. She does her best to let go of everything else, she adds.

Eating a healthy diet is one way to prevent the physical stress of being overweight, which studies show can exacerbates PsO. Dr. Truong says she avoids processed foods (think: French fries, chips, and cookies), which have a high glycemic index and can therefore increase inflammation in the body, per The Cleveland Clinic. Instead, she loads her plate with plenty of healthy fats (such as nuts, seeds, and avocado), plus lean meats such as chicken and fish, and lots of vegetables.

Additionally, she runs and practices yoga to relieve mental stress. Aerobic exercise including swimming and walking is particularly helpful for reducing stress, she notes. And yoga helps loosen your joints and reduces inflammation. “Exercise will also help people reduce risk of heart attack and stroke, since psoriasis is a whole-body inflammatory disease,” she adds.

Meditation

This mind-body wellness technique has been scientifically proven to lower stress, according to the American Psychological Association. It also helps increase pain tolerance, per The Cleveland Clinic, which can help those with PsO better cope with flares. And you don’t have to sit for hours and chant “om” to yourself. There are free, guided meditation apps such as Insight Timer and Healthy Minds, which offer short meditations for beginners, as well as longer meditations for those already practiced in the art of quieting the mind. These meditations can take place in a quiet room, or when you’re on the go—so they’re easy to fit into your day, whatever it holds.

Get 7 Hours of Sleep Each Night

Research has found that being deprived of consistent, uninterrupted sleep is associated with an increase in inflammation in the body, per Harvard Health—and there is a well-established connection between sleep disorders and PsO, most recently confirmed in a 2022 study. If you suspect you may have a sleep disorder, seeking treatment for it can dramatically improve your sleep quality, which will naturally reduce stress levels in the body and can reduce your PsO symptoms and progression, says Dr. Truong.

Build a Solid Support System

A 2022 study found that people with PsO are 1.5 times more likely to have depression and anxiety than those without the skin condition. Joining a support group for those with PsO, or building a trusted network of loved ones that will support you, can help minimize stress levels and any feelings of isolation that many people experience while trying to cope with a chronic illness, says Dr. Sayad. Engaging on such platforms also connects you with others with whom you'll likely relate, he adds.

Consider Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

A 2019 study demonstrated that CBT—in which a therapist will teach you how to restructure inaccurate of helpful thoughts and behaviour, as well as better coping techniques—helped reduce the severity of symptoms of those with moderate and severe PsO, whereas non CBT-based therapy was not effective in helping to combat the skin condition.

Focus on Self-Care

Get a massage, take a walk, grab some coffee with a friend—whatever it is that helps you relax and de-stress, Dr. Sayed suggests. Self-care is linked to improved mental health and optimism, according to Psychology Today, both of which can help you minimize PsO flares and cope with them when they do occur.

Remember, minimizing stress may improve your PsO symptoms or slow their progression—and Dr. Truong is living proof. “In medical school, stress was a leading factor of my psoriasis flares,” she shares. “Nowadays, I believe that despite my stressful schedule as a dermatologist and mother of two young children, my psoriasis is managed better with my healthy diet and exercise regimen. Psoriasis is a part of me but does not affect me day-to-day anymore.”

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriasis/stress-management?ap=nl2060&rhid=&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGXkwNJEk4c6Gp22xYw1aH4VzMRTzzg3Jmwp5buShLULBdIvc65OIYEgXxYvNd-9EwWM7_I-sPj69ZraGsn-DZlGUKL5eh7sWU75RGy3ENvA4LUqJA

Childhood Psoriasis: Emotional Toll on Families During Adolescence

From hmpgloballearningnetwork.com

Psoriasis diagnosed in childhood profoundly affects not only children but also their parents, especially as they transition into adolescence, a pivotal phase for identity and self-esteem development. A recent interpretative phenomenological analysis published in the British Journal of Health Psychology sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by families navigating this chronic condition.

Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 8 parent-child pairs, identifying 3 key themes: transition and transaction, stigma and social impact, and the treatment journey. During childhood, uncertainties about treatment options were central concerns. However, as children approached adolescence, their struggles shifted toward issues of identity, body image, and self-management of the condition.

The social visibility of psoriasis emerged as a recurring source of distress. Both children and parents reported significant emotional challenges due to stigmatization, which heightened during adolescence. Parents expressed feelings of helplessness while witnessing their child’s increased responsibility for managing the disease and coping with peer scrutiny.

These findings underscore the systemic impact of psoriasis on families, highlighting a pressing need for interventions that address not only medical treatment but also emotional and social well-being. Researchers recommend mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioural therapy tailored to children and parents to reduce stress and enhance resilience.

“This study suggests that childhood psoriasis can have a significant impact on children, particularly as they begin to transition to adolescence. Findings also highlight the burden of psoriasis for parents,” researchers concluded. “As such, psychological interventions (such as adapted forms of mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioural-therapy) are needed to target and reduce stress. Such interventions are likely to require a systemic focus and support validation of the real impact and fear of stigmatization.”

 

Reference

Day M, Heapy C, Norman P, et al. Impact of childhood psoriasis on children and parents during transition to adolescence: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Br J Health Psychol. 2025;30(1):e12763. doi:10.1111/bjhp.12763

https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/thederm/news/childhood-psoriasis-emotional-toll-families-during-adolescence 

Thailand Develops Herbal Patch Innovation for Psoriasis Treatment

From thainews.prd.go.th

Psoriasis has become a significant health concern in Thailand, with more than 20,000 outpatient cases recorded in 2024. It is now the third most common dermatological condition in the country. Approximately 1.7 million Thais suffer from psoriasis, with 30% experiencing severe symptoms that often require advanced treatments beyond standard medications. The average cost of treatment per visit is estimated at 3,100 baht.

Karom Polpornklang, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, shared these statistics while highlighting a breakthrough in alternative treatments. The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has collaborated with Thai researchers to develop an innovative herbal patch for psoriasis patients.

This herbal patch, inspired by the traditional formula “Karun Osot,” incorporates cannabidiol (CBD) extracts. Using transdermal delivery, the patch targets symptoms such as thickened skin patches and is particularly effective for mild to moderate cases. It offers a promising alternative for patients seeking Thai traditional medical solutions.

The patch recently earned international recognition, winning a silver medal at the iENA 2024 International Trade Fair in Nuremberg, Germany. It also received a special award from the China Association of Inventions.

https://thainews.prd.go.th/nbtworld/news/view/771386/?bid=1 

How to Protect Psoriasis-Prone Skin from Winter Flare-Ups

From timesnownews.com

Managing psoriasis during winter can be challenging. Experts share essential tips, including hydration, gentle cleansing, protective fabrics, indoor humidity, diet, sunlight moderation, and consistent care 

Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that accelerates skin cell turnover, often leads to scaling, inflammation, and discomfort. Winter poses a unique challenge for individuals with psoriasis, as cold, dry air and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural moisture, exacerbating symptoms. Experts Dr. Trupti Desale and Dr. Mandeep Singh share their insights on managing psoriasis during the colder months.

Understand the Triggers

Dr. Desale, MBBS, MD (Skin) from NiTi Skin and Hair Clinic in Nashik, Maharashtra, explains that dry skin, often triggered by environmental factors such as low humidity, cold air, and indoor heating, is a significant cause of psoriasis flare-ups. Dr. Singh, HOD of Plastic, Dermatology, and Cosmetic Surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram, adds that such conditions can exacerbate dryness and irritation, highlighting the importance of proactive skin care.

                                                                                                             Image - Canva

Hydration is Crucial

Both experts stress the importance of keeping the skin well-moisturised. Dr. Singh recommends using thick, emollient creams or ointments immediately after bathing to lock in moisture. Dr. Desale suggests looking for products with ceramides, shea butter, or glycerine, which help to retain hydration and repair the skin’s barrier.

Harsh cleansers can irritate sensitive skin. Dr Desale advises using fragrance-free cleansers and incorporating soothing additives like Dead Sea salts or bath oils to calm inflamed skin. Dr. Singh echoes this sentiment, warning against the use of hot water, which can strip protective oils from the skin. Instead, lukewarm water is recommended.

Use Protective Fabrics

To reduce friction and irritation, both experts suggest wearing soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Dr. Desale recommends layering strategically, placing softer materials close to the skin to create a barrier against potentially irritating heavier fabrics.

Maintain Indoor Humidity

Dry indoor air can exacerbate psoriasis. Dr. Desale advises maintaining a humidity level of 30-50% at home using a humidifier. This helps to combat the dryness caused by heating systems.

Indulge in a Skin-Friendly Diet

A balanced diet can support skin health. Dr. Desale suggests including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, along with water-rich fruits and vegetables. Staying hydrated internally can complement external moisturising efforts.

Sunlight and UV Protection

While brief exposure to natural sunlight can help manage symptoms, Dr. Singh cautions that UV exposure is still a concern even in winter. Using sunscreen when outdoors is essential to protect sensitive skin.

Consistency and Professional Care

Both experts agree on the importance of staying consistent with prescribed treatments. Regular dermatological consultations can help personalise care and manage flare-ups effectively. Dr. Desale also points out that it is important to perform patch tests before using new products to avoid potential triggers.

Managing psoriasis in winter requires a comprehensive approach that includes hydration, gentle care, and attention to triggers. By following these expert-recommended tips, individuals with psoriasis can minimise discomfort and keep their skin healthy through the colder months.

https://www.timesnownews.com/health/how-to-protect-psoriasis-prone-skin-from-winter-flare-ups-article-116408449

Winter skin woes

From health.harvard.edu

Frosty temperatures can do a number on our skin, especially as we get older

If perpetually cold hands and feet weren't clear tip-offs that we're now in winter's grasp, perhaps a flurry of dry, flaky skin has driven it home.

Rough, itchy patches are nearly universal at this time of year. But you may not have braced yourself for other skin problems that can crop up — or get worse — when temperatures plunge.

On this undesirable list are eczema, which is marked by dry, red areas and painful cracks; psoriasis, which typically involves patches of thick, red skin coated with silvery scales; rosacea, most often characterized by facial flushing and redness and causing red bumps on the nose and cheeks; and seborrheic dermatitis, which is known as dandruff when it's on the scalp but can take the form of a scaly rash on other skin areas, particularly around the eyebrows and the corners of the nose and chin.

Even people whose skin has been remarkably unproblematic over the years often find they're facing new winter skin woes merely because they're getting older, says Dr. Rachel Reynolds, interim chair of dermatology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre. For women, the first five or so years after menopause may seem especially brutal, since diminishing oestrogen levels translate into less skin moisture.

"As we age, our skin gets drier," Dr. Reynolds says. "So unless someone has already been dealing with a skin condition, they might not experience these weather-related changes until they get older."

Problematic behaviours

Why do all of these problems converge in winter? Simply put, winter wreaks havoc with our skin barrier — the top layer of skin, which contains substances such as cholesterol and fatty acids that help seal in moisture and protect against irritants.

Frosty temperatures and dry air are winter-weather characteristics that are particularly hard on skin. "Even heating systems create more dryness," Dr. Reynolds notes. "They take more humidity out of the environment, which extracts moisture from the skin."

Certain behaviours can aggravate the situation, including

• taking long, hot showers or washing hands frequently
• using harsh soaps, laundry detergents, fabric softener sheets, or heavily fragranced products
• spending a lot of time outdoors
• wearing wool, which can irritate sensitive skin.

Surprisingly, using alcohol-based hand sanitizer — which became a staple during the pandemic — isn't as drying as hand washing can be, Dr. Reynolds says. "Ironically, for someone who has to clean their hands frequently, soap and water exposure is more harsh on skin," she says.

Skin protection tips

Applying moisturizer is a go-to measure to ward off dry skin, as well as soothe problems such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. But Dr. Reynolds suggests taking a deeper dive on products and approaches you may not have considered:

• Opt for creams and ointments, since thinner lotions don't provide as much moisture.
• Coat cracked skin areas with petroleum jelly and cover with cotton gloves, plastic wrap, or another barrier to seal in moisture overnight.
• Use a humidifier to pump moisture into dry indoor air.
• Take only lukewarm showers, and shower no more than once a day — every other day if possible.
• Use moisturizing soaps and liquid body cleansers, which contain more skin-softening emollients than bar soap. "And try to avoid soap on areas you don't need it, like your arms and legs," she says.
• Pat yourself dry after bathing and apply moisturizer while skin is still damp, which traps the moisture.

However you respond to dry skin, don't ignore it — especially if you're at midlife or beyond, Dr. Reynolds warns. Untreated dry skin can develop into a type of eczema called nummular dermatitis, another version of the dry-skin eczema often seen on older people's legs. This itchy condition can predispose people to cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection that can spread to the bloodstream.

"Everyone gets dry skin as they age, and the degree to which you get it varies from person to person," she says. "Anyone around 60 or older could be predisposed to this eczema, just based on age-related dry skin."

See your primary care doctor if you develop an itchy, red rash. "If it becomes more severe, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist," Dr. Reynolds says.

One last caveat: drinking water isn't a cure-all to either avoid or treat dry skin. "Keeping up with normal fluid intake is a good idea, but the benefits of skin hydration from drinking water are sometimes overemphasized," Dr. Reynolds says. "A much more effective approach is hydrating your skin from the outside by practicing diligent skin care and moisturizing regularly."

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/winter-skin-woes 

Psoriasis diet: What to eat and how to prevent a flare-up

From healthshots.com

Thick, scaly patches of skin is the most significant symptom of psoriasis. These can happen anywhere on the body and can be painful. While there medications to manage the symptoms, the right diet can do wonders as well. A good psoriasis diet includes fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes as well as lean protein food items. The inclusion of these can help reduce inflammation and reduce the severity of symptoms. However, items such as red meat and processed foods must be avoided.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface. The US National Institutes of Health defines psoriasis as a chronic disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. This leads to the formation of thick, scaly patches of skin, which can be red, inflamed, itchy, and sometimes painful.

Fish is a good food for a psoriasis diet. Image courtesy: Freepik

Can food impact psoriasis?

Diet can significantly impact psoriasis, with certain foods potentially exacerbating or alleviating symptoms. Pro-inflammatory foods such as saturated fats, sugars, alcohol, and gluten may worsen the condition by  altering gut microbiota. Conversely, anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and dietary fibres can improve skin health, explains dietician Kejal Shah. A study, published in the journal JAMA Network states that diets such as the Mediterranean diet have shown promise in reducing psoriasis severity by providing beneficial nutrients and antioxidants.

1. Fish

Fish is an important part of a psoriasis diet. Fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology observed the function of fish oil in a psoriasis diet. It was seen that there was a significant improvement in symptoms. These fish reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Omega-3 has lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are linked to psoriasis severity.

2. Lean proteins

Another major component of a psoriasis diet is lean protein found in chicken and fish. These proteins are less likely to trigger inflammation compared to red meats. A protein-restricted diet may also help decrease systemic inflammation associated with psoriasis, states a study, published in the Jama Network.

3. Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables such as berries, fenugreek, spinach and broccoli are also good foods to add to a psoriasis diet. These are high in antioxidants and rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. These also contain a high amount of dietary fibre. These foods combat oxidative stress and inflammation while promoting overall skin health, states a study, published in the journal Nutrients.

4. Legumes

Legumes are very important in a psoriasis diet. Beans and lentils are packed with fibre and protein. Besides this, legumes help regulate blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients without the inflammatory effects of processed meats. This is what makes them perfect for a patient suffering from psoriasis. A study, published in the journal Dermatology and Therapy, observed that patients who consumed significantly less sugar, whole grain fibre, dairy, and calcium in the form of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, showed significant improvement in symptoms.

5. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds are also must-have items in a psoriasis diet. These are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They support heart health and may reduce inflammation in the body. It is important to consume flax seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.

6. Whole grains

Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats are great on a psoriasis diet. These grains are high in fibre and help maintain healthy digestion. A study, published in the journal Nutrients also advocates a fibre-rich diet. These foods  stabilise blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for overall health as well.

Incorporating these foods into your diet can create a balanced approach that supports skin health and reduces the severity of psoriasis symptoms.

7 foods to avoid while following a psoriasis diet

To effectively manage psoriasis, certain foods should be avoided due to their potential to trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms.

1. Red meat

Red meat such as sausage and bacon must be avoided in a psoriasis diet. Excessive intake of red meat may aggravate the inflammation in psoriasis, states a study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Red meat contains arachidonic acid, which can promote inflammation and may exacerbate psoriasis lesions. High consumption of red meat is also linked to increased levels of inflammatory markers in the body.

2. Dairy products

Milk, cheese and yoghurt are dairy products that must be avoided on a psoriasis diet. Dairy contains a high amount of saturated fats and casein, a protein that some people find difficult to digest, says Shah. This can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and increased inflammation, potentially worsening psoriasis symptoms.

3. Gluten

Wheat, barley, and rye all contain gluten and this is not appropriate for a psoriasis diet. Gluten has been associated with higher rates of celiac disease among those with psoriasis. For individuals sensitive to gluten, its consumption can trigger an autoimmune response that exacerbates skin lesions, explains Shah.

4. Processed foods

Fast food, sugary snacks, and pre-packaged meals are unhealthy items to add to a psoriasis diet. These foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, all of which can contribute to systemic inflammation, states this study, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology. This inflammation may worsen psoriasis symptoms and lead to weight gain, further complicating the condition.

5. Nightshades

Nightshades such as tomatoes and potatoes contain solanine, a substance that may trigger inflammation. While not universally problematic, they have been reported as triggers for some people with psoriasis. These can also impact digestion. In a study published in the journal Dermatology and Therapy, patients reported a 52.1percent decrease in symptoms of psoriasis.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol is not appropriate while dealing with psoriasis as it can make symptoms worse. Alcohol consumption can lead to liver stress and inflammation. It may also disrupt gut health by damaging beneficial bacteria, contributing to systemic inflammation that can aggravate psoriasis symptoms.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables must be part of a psoriasis diet. Image courtesy: Freepik

7. Added sugars

Sugar content in candies, cold drinks and baked goods can cause problems. These foods are high in added sugars and can increase insulin resistance. These promote inflammation through the production of cytokines. This inflammatory response may worsen symptom severity and should not be included in a psoriasis diet.

Avoiding these foods can help reduce inflammation and potentially lessen the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups. Individuals with psoriasis should monitor their diet closely and consult healthcare professionals for personalised dietary recommendations.

https://www.healthshots.com/healthy-eating/nutrition/psoriasis-diet/