3 Afternoon Habits That Can Impact Your Sleep If You Have Psoriasis

From eatingwell.com

Why skipping the happy hour drinks and other afternoon choices could play a key role in getting better sleep with psoriasis 

KEY POINTS

• Psoriasis symptoms, including itching skin, can create a cycle of difficulty sleeping.
• Flare-ups can be triggered by afternoon stress, skipping moisturizer or consuming alcohol at happy hour.
• Establishing a sleep routine and working with health care professionals can help manage symptoms.

Managing psoriasis can feel overwhelming at times—including at night. With all the itching and discomfort involved, this inflammatory skin condition can easily interfere with a solid night of rest. Research shows that more than 75% of people with psoriasis also have some type of sleep disorder.

“Poor sleep and psoriasis can become a cycle,” says Samaria Garrett, M.S., RDN. “Itching and discomfort make it hard to sleep, and then lack of sleep can leave the body feeling more stressed and inflamed,” Garrett says.

Interestingly, your afternoon habits may have more of an influence on this cycle than you realize. Here are three afternoon habits that can impact your sleep if you have psoriasis. 

1. Ignoring Late-Day Stress Levels

Living a high-stress life can cause problems for most people, including those with psoriasis. There’s even a bidirectional relationship between the two. Stress can increase the risk of psoriasis flares and worsen symptoms. At the same time, psoriasis can also make you feel stressed.

“People living with psoriasis often have stress associated with managing the disease, which keeps stress levels elevated,” says dermatologist Aleta Simmons, M.D.

This can lead to a cycle of stress and psoriasis flare-ups that is difficult to manage and impacts quality of life, including sleep. People with psoriasis are also often caught in an itch-scratch cycle that tends to be worse at night. And when sleep is disrupted by constant itching, stress can worsen. 

Missing out on sleep doesn’t help matters, either. “During sleep, our bodies are resting and preparing,” Simmons says. “We need adequate sleep nightly as a part of a healthy lifestyle and prevention and management of chronic diseases like psoriasis.”

2. Skipping Moisturizer

If you hop in the shower after an afternoon workout class, it’s a good idea to make time to moisturize afterward. Keeping the skin moisturized is a simple yet important way to ease psoriasis symptoms like itchy, flaking skin or prevent a flare up, which can impact your sleep. Moisturizer helps seal in water, which not only relieves dry skin but can also help the skin heal. Moisturizers that contain ceramides can be effective, since they help maintain and restore the skin barrier, Simmons says. “When the skin barrier is not being treated, psoriasis can worsen, leading to increased itching and stress, which impacts sleep greatly,” Simmons says. She recommends moisturizing twice a day—after bathing and before sleeping.

3. Having a Few Drinks at Happy Hour

Credit:

Getty Images. EatingWell design

Drinking alcohol is associated with more severe psoriasis and a reduced response to psoriasis treatments. Alcohol consumption also puts people with psoriasis at higher risk for other conditions like cancer, arthritis and heart disease.

“Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, and alcohol tends to add fuel to the fire,” Garrett says. “While everyone’s triggers are different, many people notice their scalp and skin become more irritated, inflamed or difficult to manage after drinking, especially in larger amounts.”

Additionally, alcohol is known to have a negative impact on sleep. While you might fall asleep more quickly, drinking alcohol often makes it harder to stay asleep and get the type of deep and restorative sleep your body needs for skin repair. “For someone already dealing with itching, discomfort or night-time psoriasis symptoms, alcohol can make for a pretty restless night,” Garrett says. 

Habits to Help with Sleep and Psoriasis

• Establish a healthy sleep routine. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Aim to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day and avoid screen time at least an hour or two before bed.
• Seek help from professionals. “See a dermatologist for treatment and management of psoriasis, which will improve itching that disturbs sleep,” Simmons says. If you’re having trouble sleeping, see a physician who specializes in sleep disorders. For anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges, see a therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist.
• Live a healthy lifestyle. “Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, so it’s important to look at the bigger picture,” Garrett says. “Prioritizing sleep, managing stress, staying active, limiting alcohol and eating nourishing foods to support the gut microbiome can all support overall health and may help people better manage their symptoms.”
• Stay on top of the basics. “Staying on top of medical treatments, gently moisturizing the skin following a warm shower and following a consistent sleep routine can make a meaningful difference,” Garrett says.

Our Expert Take

When you have psoriasis, securing a solid night of rest goes beyond your evening routine. Many afternoon habits deserve some much-needed attention, too. This includes finding ways to keep your stress in check throughout the afternoon, applying a quality moisturizer when needed—especially after showering—and watching your alcohol intake at happy hour. Sleeping well is important for managing psoriasis symptoms and avoiding a flare-up. So if you’re struggling to sleep well, consider discussing the problem with your dermatologist or a sleep specialist.

https://www.eatingwell.com/afternoon-habits-that-impact-your-sleep-with-psoriasis-12003954

6 brutal psoriasis triggers hiding in your daily routine

From rollingout.com

The surprising everyday habits that make psoriasis flare-ups worse 

Your psoriasis isn’t just randomly deciding to ruin your week. Those red, scaly patches that seem to appear out of nowhere are actually responding to specific triggers that might be lurking in your everyday routine without you realizing it. Understanding what sets off your flare-ups is like having a secret weapon against this frustrating autoimmune condition.

Psoriasis affects millions of people, causing the immune system to speed up skin cell production so dramatically that new cells reach the surface in days instead of weeks. The result is the thick, scaly patches that can appear anywhere on your body and make you want to hide under long sleeves year-round.

                                                                                       Photo credit: Shutterstock/Andrey_Popov

Stress becomes your skin’s worst enemy

Stress and psoriasis have a twisted relationship that creates a vicious cycle. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that can trigger inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms. Then, dealing with visible psoriasis symptoms creates more stress, which triggers more flare-ups.

This doesn’t mean you need to eliminate all stress from your life, but finding healthy ways to manage stress can significantly impact your skin. Whether it’s regular exercise, meditation, or just ensuring you get enough sleep, stress management becomes a crucial part of psoriasis care.

The connection is so strong that many people notice their psoriasis gets worse during particularly challenging life periods like job changes, relationship problems, or family issues. Recognizing this pattern can help you prepare and take extra care of your skin during stressful times.

Your favourite foods might be inflammation fuel

Certain foods can trigger inflammatory responses that make psoriasis worse, though the specific triggers vary from person to person. Common culprits include processed foods high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and foods that promote inflammation throughout the body.

Some people find that alcohol, particularly beer and wine, can trigger flare-ups. Others notice that nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants seem to worsen their symptoms. Dairy products and gluten are also frequent triggers for some individuals with psoriasis.

The key is paying attention to your own patterns rather than following a universal elimination diet. Keep track of what you eat and how your skin responds to identify your personal food triggers.

Weather changes throw your skin into chaos

Cold, dry weather is notorious for triggering psoriasis flare-ups. Low humidity levels can dry out your skin, while lack of sunlight reduces your natural vitamin D production, both of which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.

But it’s not just winter weather that’s problematic. Some people find that rapid weather changes, moving between extreme temperatures, or even changes in barometric pressure can trigger symptoms. Air conditioning and heating systems that dry out indoor air can also contribute to flare-ups.

Medications create unexpected skin reactions

Certain medications can trigger psoriasis flare-ups or make existing symptoms worse. Beta-blockers used for heart conditions, lithium for bipolar disorder, and some antimalarial drugs are known to potentially worsen psoriasis in some people.

Even common medications like ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can sometimes trigger flare-ups. This doesn’t mean you should stop taking necessary medications, but it’s important to discuss any connections you notice with your health care provider.

Skin injuries activate the autoimmune response

Any injury to your skin, from cuts and scrapes to sunburns and even tight clothing that rubs against your skin, can trigger new psoriasis patches in that exact location. This phenomenon is called the Koebner response, and it can happen anywhere from a few days to several weeks after the initial injury.

This means being extra careful about protecting your skin from injuries, choosing loose-fitting clothing, and being gentle during activities like shaving or exercising. Even something as minor as a scratch can potentially become a new psoriasis patch.

Infections trigger immune system overreactions

Infections, particularly strep throat, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups or even cause psoriasis to develop for the first time. The immune system’s response to fighting infections can sometimes mistakenly target healthy skin cells, leading to psoriasis symptoms.

Other infections like respiratory infections, skin infections, or even dental problems can potentially trigger flare-ups in susceptible individuals.

Taking control of your triggers

Managing psoriasis isn’t about avoiding life entirely, but about understanding your personal triggers and developing strategies to minimize their impact. This might mean carrying moisturizer during weather changes, practicing stress management techniques, or working with your health care provider to adjust medications when possible.

Keep a flare-up diary to track potential triggers, including what you ate, stress levels, weather conditions, and any other factors that might be relevant. Over time, you’ll start to see patterns that can help you predict and prevent flare-ups before they become severe.

Living with psoriasis requires patience and self-awareness, but understanding your triggers gives you power over a condition that can otherwise feel completely unpredictable.

https://rollingout.com/2025/06/20/psoriasis-triggers-in-your-daily-routine/

Under pressure: How your 9 to 5 could be showing up on your skin

From sinardaily.my

Chronic workplace stress doesn’t just stay bottled up in your headspace. Instead, it manifests physically, particularly through your skin 

YOU'RE smashing deadlines, answering emails beyond working hours and surviving on caffeine and sheer willpower. Your brain might be putting on a brave face, but your skin might be staging a silent protest.

That mysterious breakout, persistent rash, or sudden flare-up that seems to be immune to every serum might not just be a skincare issue, it could be your job waving a red flag.

It turns out, stress at the workplace could be doing more than fraying your nerves—they’re potentially wreaking havoc on your largest organ: your skin. According to dermatologist Dr Felix Yap Boon Bin from Sunway Medical Centre, your body is not shy about showing you when it’s had enough.

When contacted by Sinar Daily, Dr Felix shared how chronic workplace stress doesn’t just stay bottled up in your headspace. Instead, it manifests physically—particularly through your skin—with conditions ranging from acne and rosacea to eczema, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scalp folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis, thus demanding a clinic or hospital visit.

This is because he said that chronic workplace stress could contribute to hormonal changes, such as elevation of cortisol levels in the body, aside from interference of the sex hormones, including testosterone and progesterone. He added that the immune function could also be affected by suppression, leading to "increased inflammation."

"These changes in hormones and the immune system can lead to increased sebum (oil) production, skin inflammation, and also changes in microbiota, which is the bacterial composition of the skin," he said.

He shed light on how the alteration of the sex hormones level could affect the human, where there would be an increase in testosterone level.

"These changes lead to increased sebum production of the skin and changes the skin microbiota, favouring growth of more virulent bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes," he said.

Dr Felix added that the changes in sebum and increase in population of the bacteria would eventually lead to formation of acne, among other possible skin conditions aggravated by existing conditions such as eczema.

Sunway Medical Centre dermatologist, Dr Felix Yap Boon Bin

He further said that changes in cortisol levels would lead to increase in inflammation, aggravated by suppressed immune functions, exacerbating diseases related to the latest such as eczema and psoriasis. "Both these diseases have dysfunctional immune system, while the changes in microbiota would make them worse with the increases barrier defect of the skin from the changes of skin pH," he said.

In consequence, he said that people would experience dryness of the skin which would further aggravate psoriasis and eczema.

Furthermore, aside from just the testosterone levels increasing from the hormonal alterations from chronic stress, steroid hormone cortisol, alongside oestrogen and progesterone and thyroid hormones would be altered.

"This process leads to disequilibrium in the outer layer of the skin, immune dysregulation in the dermal layer of the skin and increased inflammation and changes in all the functions of the skin appendages," he said.

He added that with changes in skin microbiota and skin microenvironment, there would be major changes in the barrier function of the skin.

Skin conditions such as acne, inflamed skin, a compromised skin barrier, and dryness, among others, are common results of chronic stress, as highlighted by Dr Felix. Photo: Canva

Dr Felix said that the healing process would need a good immune system and balanced hormones with the correct proportion of the microbiota.

If not, he said that the condition would worsen over time, causing reduced productivity at work and higher medical leave.

"Individuals with eczema will have frequent eczema flares with more difficult-to-control eczema," he said, adding that a higher rate of infection is also observed in the patients.

He said that the young adults affected by chronic stress would have severe acne, psoriasis would flare and would spread, potentially leading to psoriatic arthritis, which is a joint disease related to psoriasis.

"All these will propagate themselves as flare-ups of skin diseases, which will cause problems with sleeping, itching, low self-esteem, depression, and many other psychological distresses that in themselves propagate the diseases," he said.

Advocating for actively managing stress on a daily basis, he said that people would need to adopt both psychological and behavioural approaches, which could be done by adopting a good balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, regularly exercising, and having proper sleep to mitigate the adverse effects of the stress.

He emphasised the importance of using appropriate facial products for acne-prone skin, such as non-comedogenic products, and early visit to the doctors could be considered to treat infection of the skin early and not let it become worse.

"Maintaining good barrier function and skin microbiota by using gentle cleansers, patting skin dry after taking a bath/shower, avoiding scrubbing the skin, and maintaining regular moisturisation of the skin is important," he concluded.

https://www.sinardaily.my/article/718109/culture/features/under-pressure-how-your-9-to-5-could-be-showing-up-on-your-skin

5 Simple Ways To Detox Your Skin After Too Much Merriment

From vogue.com

If enjoying yourself over the festive period is—rightly—a priority, you may find yourself dealing with the after-effects of excessive eating and drinking, all of which ultimately show up on your skin.

When the body is exposed to high levels of glucose (or sugar), collagen and elastin proteins in the skin become impaired, causing a breakdown of its springy structure. As well as skin losing its elasticity, it can also lead to increased sebum production, dehydration and a rougher, more uneven skin surface. The copious amounts of sugar in alcohol are also problematic for skin. “Alcohol is a diuretic and leads to dehydration of our skin and body,” says Dr Zainab Laftah, consultant dermatologist at HCA The Shard. “It makes the blood vessels in our skin dilate and [become] leaky, causing flushing, redness and puffiness. Alcohol is also a known trigger for rosacea and psoriasis.”

When you consider what a tumultuous year it’s been, both locally and on a global scale, it is inevitable that stress will creep in. “Stress increases levels of cortisol and leads to inflammation, worsening inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis,” says Jason Thomson, head of medical at Skin+Me, a direct-to-consumer customized prescription-strength skincare brand designed by dermatologists.

“Cortisol can also indirectly affect the activity of oil glands and contribute to acne, [and] stress increases the skin barrier permeability leading to increased water loss and dehydrated skin,” he says. “Stress can also reduce collagen synthesis, leading to a loss of elasticity and skin thickness.” Stress can cause changes in the way we implement our skincare routines, too. “We shouldn’t underestimate the impact stress has on our daily skincare routines, which are often thrown by the wayside,” says Dr Ophelia Veraitch, L’Oréal Paris consultant dermatologist. “Our skin thrives on having a daily routine, and if this is interrupted for some reason–such as stress–then it can aggravate issues and cause flare-ups. At times when we are under stress, we may find ourselves skipping our usual skincare routines… which negatively impacts our skin.”

While the experts are divided on what the concept of detoxing actually means in relation to your skin–while your skin is adept at protecting itself from external irritants via the skin barrier, it’s not medically possible to purge toxins from the body via the skin–most will agree that all seasonally sluggish skin can benefit from a reset. “There’s no good evidence backing up any form of ‘skin detox’,” says Malvina Cunningham, consultant dermatologist at Skin+Me. “It’s a balance between looking at what you use on your skin in terms of active ingredients and cosmetics with the aim to calm and hydrate your skin, plus looking at your general health and reducing known stresses on the skin, such as lack of sleep, too much alcohol, an unbalanced diet, smoking and pollution.” Here’s Vogue’s guide to how to tackle skin that could do with a festive break all of its own…

                                                                                 Lorado

Do embark on a double cleanse routine

It’s a skincare cliché for a reason. Double cleansing (the process of cleansing twice in the morning and again in the evening), is a really effective way to remove all traces of makeup, impurities and pollutants from the skin, not to mention the 30,000 to 40,000 cells that skin sheds every day. Not only can inadequate cleansing contribute to congestion, breakouts and dullness, but not getting all that deep-set dirt out of your pores will render much of what you apply afterwards virtually useless–including that expensive serum that Santa was kind enough to deliver. 

Balms and cleansing oils that dissolve grime and penetrate deep into the skin are good first cleanse options, while creams, gels and micellar waters make for appropriate second cleanses. While Laftah recommends CeraVe’s Hydrating Cleanser, which contains three essential ceramides to help nourish the skin during the cleansing process, Cunningham makes a case for “cleansers with mild acid such as PHA (polyhydroxy acid–gentler than its cousins AHA/BHAs),” which will add “mild exfoliation to help brighten dull-looking skin without compromising barrier function.”

Rethink your routine

Skin that’s having to contend with the onslaught of a poor diet, lack of sleep and extra stress needs no extra complications in the form of fussy routines, which many of us are guilty of. “Using excessive amounts of acids and actives [results] in sensitivity, irritation and compromising your skin’s barrier function. If you have sensitive, irritated skin, then stopping products and going back to a gentle and supportive skincare routine can be considered a type of ‘skin detox,’ and will help you to get your skin back on track,” notes Cunningham.

Start by stripping your regime right back to a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, which won’t irritate or disrupt already compromised skin. Adding a brightening antioxidant such as vitamin C into your daily routine will help stimulate collagen, offer a brightening wake-up call, and counteract oxidization caused by inflammatory free radicals; we like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. “Consider adding in an active to your nightly regime… Retinols and retinoids are backed up with the most scientific evidence. They have been proven to stimulate collagen synthesis, even out skin tone and reduce inflammation. The key is to start slow with a retinol, initially once to twice a week, and build up gradually to nightly use over a period of weeks,” adds Laftah. Try Murad’s Retinol Youth Renewal Serum which delivers all the benefits, minus any associated irritation.

Look after your gut

Easier said than done, but banishing chocolate, salty canapés, and fatty foods from your daily diet is vital if you want skin that sings instead of groans. “A healthy diet is important for the gut-skin axis and skin homeostasis,” says Laftah. In other words, keeping your skin healthy means keeping your gut and its delicate microbiome healthy. It’s not just food that contributes to poor gut health either; alcohol causes an inflammatory response in the gut which can result in digestive discomfort, including abdominal pain and bloating. Alcohol also inhibits the production of digestive enzymes which can make it more difficult for your body to break down, digest and absorb nutrients from your food. If you can, aim to avoid booze altogether, but if the holiday season feels too alien without a glass in your hand, make it a glass of red; according to a recent study, red wine drinkers are more likely to have a healthy mix of bacteria in their gut than those who consume other forms of alcohol.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Excess sugar, alcohol, and elevated stress levels impact the skin in various ways, but one problem they all contribute to is chronic dehydration, a condition which leaves skin looking uneven, dull and dry. You may also experience fine lines and could even be hit with itchiness and flakiness. If that’s you, take a two-pronged approach to rehydration by addressing the issue inside and out. “Don’t forget to drink lots of water to keep all your organs well hydrated,” advises Veraitch. “For the largest organ of our body–the skin–an increased water intake ensures skin cells are well hydrated, reducing dryness and increased skin elasticity. Drinking water also helps to get rid of toxins which can cause inflammation.”

To rebalance skin, look for hydrating products that contain hyaluronic acid, which as well as restoring hydration, helps repair the skin barrier which can easily become damaged after too much festive excess. “Make sure you’re using a moisturizer with barrier-friendly, moisturizing ingredients to counter the dehydrating effects of alcohol, and the reduced humidity associated with the cold weather and central heating,” adds Cunningham.

Prioritise sleep

While it’s tempting to indulge in a little too much Netflix and not enough quality shut-eye over the festive period, neglecting a regular sleep routine is bad news for skin. When we sleep our skin goes into regeneration mode, replacing damaged or dead cells with fresh new ones, and repairing any environmental damage. Good sleep also increases blood flow to the skin and contributes to its essential structural work, such as rebuilding vital collagen and elastin–the very proteins that festive excesses damage. Skipping those precious hours (at least eight, more if you can), prevents all of this vital maintenance work from happening, and instead increases levels of inflammation, slows down healing and repair systems and aggravates conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis and allergies. “Sleep is nature’s best medicine and the same applies when it comes to looking after our skin. Eight hours sleep is another thing to try to get regularly, if not every night, to allow your body to rest and restore itself for the next day,” agrees Veraitch.

https://www.vogue.com/article/5-simple-ways-to-detox-your-skin-after-too-much-merriment 

5 Things to Stop Doing Right Now for Psoriasis

From healthcentral.com

Keep flares at bay by ditching these habits that can do a number on your skin

Apply your topical treatments. Avoid your triggers. Keep your skin moist. Stay in touch with your derm. Lower your stress. If you’ve lived with psoriasis for a while, this skin-care checklist will be second nature to you. But what about the things you shouldn’t be doing? It’s easy to overlook some less-obvious lifestyle tips, but they can have a big impact on your skin health.

Whether you’re still having regular psoriasis flare-ups you can’t link to any particular trigger, or you simply want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your skin in the best possible condition, try adding—or subtracting!—these tips from your list.

1. Quit Smoking

We know you know, but it still needs to be said: Smoking is a major health hazard, proven to cause cancer, stroke, and heart disease, per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Smoking increases inflammation in the body, says New York-based dermatologist Radha Mikkilineni, M.D., who is also clinical assistant professor at Cornell Medical School, Department of Dermatology-New York Presbyterian Hospital. The raised scaly skin patches from psoriasis result from systemic inflammation most-likely due to a misfire in the immune system. So Dr. Mikkilineni’s warning won’t come as a surprise: “Smoking reduces the effectiveness of treatment for psoriasis as it is pro-inflammatory and stimulates precisely what we are attempting to reduce in these patients.”

Smoking also impacts how certain drugs are metabolized by your body, which can make meds less effective, adds Karan Lal, D.O., director of paediatric dermatology and cosmetic surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ.

Research has shown that smoking increases the risk of developing psoriasis and having more severe flare ups of the disease. One study of nurses and other health professionals, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, found that the risk of developing psoriasis is almost double in long-term smokers, compared with people who have never smoked. Another study of 276 psoriasis patients, published in Dermatologic Therapy, found that smokers may have an increased need for systemic treatment for psoriasis, such as biologics. 

If you have psoriasis and want to quit smoking, ask your dermatologist for the best next steps. Various quitting aids are available (like nicotine patches) but it’s important to check whether they could trigger your psoriasis, says the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The CDC offers free confidential coaching via the number (1-800-QUIT-NOW).

2. Stop Ignoring Antioxidants

According to a review article published in the British Journal of Dermatology, people with psoriasis often have decreased levels of antioxidant nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin E, and selenium. Scientists believe this is due to a compromised gut barrier, which can impact nutrient synthesis and absorption, according to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals (compounds that can cause damage to the body if their levels aren’t kept in check) and reduce the risk of disease.

A simple way to strengthen your antioxidant defences is to drink green tea, which is packed with antioxidants, including polyphenols, which are also believed to reduce inflammation (always a good thing when you have psoriasis). Hit up our Anti-inflammatory Cooking Club for more good eats.

As well as being present in many types of food, antioxidants are available in supplement form. Dr. Mikkilineni recommends the oral antioxidant polypodium leucotomos (e.g. Heliocare) to protect the skin from inflammatory conditions as well as sun damage and rashes that develop from sun exposure. While we still lack strong research supporting anti-inflammatory diets or supplements for treating psoriasis, an article in the journal Antioxidants says these strategies have promising potential for psoriasis and can enhance disease management.

3. Stop Blaming Yourself

Psoriasis is a stressful condition in itself, but the pressure from social media and a beauty-focused society to have smooth, glowing, blemish-free skin can increase the stress potential enormously. “Making comparisons [between your skin and others’] can wreak havoc if you have obvious psoriasis,” Dr. Lal says. “It's very important to work in partnership with your dermatologist to understand the etiology (cause) of psoriasis—it is not your fault.”

It’s also important for doctors to weigh the pros and cons of the mental stress caused by psoriasis with the risks of medications, Dr. Mikkilineni adds. She says that sometimes she’ll go to systemic meds faster (rather than a more conservative approach with topicals, the usual first-line treatment) if a patient is under severe stress as a result of their condition. “It means they can get relief faster,” she explains. “I think patients often feel that systemic medications for their psoriasis are a huge step and are fearful of them. I try to explain that these medications work and in the right circumstances with the right patient can result in a huge quality of life improvement.”

Dr. Mikkilineni also advises patients to seek mental health support. “Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and meditation,” she says.

4. Step Away From Stress

If cutting out stress was easy, the whole world would be floating on a sea of chill. But we all handle stress differently and have our own stressful experiences to deal with. “Having a chronic disease in itself is stressful and you have minimal control of it,” says Dr. Lal. “But psoriasis can be managed.”

Dr. Lal believes that manifestation is the key to a healthy life (while staying on top of your derm-approved treatment plan, of course). “If you keep your mind positive, you’re more likely to have a better outcome,” he says, adding that seeing a therapist is a great way to develop a positive framework on life. And remember, “psoriasis is a treatable condition and I have never not been able to clear a patient’s skin. Don’t give up—and find a dermatologist who fully supports your endeavour.”

Practical stress-relieving tips from the AAD include yoga, support groups, deep breathing exercises, and keeping daily gratitude lists.

5. Let Go of Harsh Bathing Routines

It’s a myth that you have to cut down on your bathing if you have psoriasis—there’s no benefit to this, as the skin barrier is not impaired in the same way as it is with atopic dermatitis (eczema), explains Dr. Mikkilineni—but there are modifications you can make to get the most out of bath time.

“It’s important not to use abrasive soaps and sponges on areas of psoriasis as this can worsen and even expand the psoriatic patches,” Dr. Mikkilineni says.

Dr. Lal recommends bathing daily with salicylic acid-based cleansers that can help soften and remove some of the scaling from plaques. Plus, keep baths to 15 minutes or less and showers to five minutes or less, use warm (not hot) water, and dry your skin—very gently—by patting it with a towel, before applying a fragrance-free moisturizer to all of your skin while it’s still slightly damp, per the AAD.

Finally—as always—don’t forget the basics! “Another aspect of skin health is overall health,” says Dr. Mikkilineni. “I cannot emphasize enough how proper nutrition and avoidance of sugary and highly processed foods can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce insulin resistance, and help with sleep and stress.” All of which can help you keep your psoriasis symptoms under control, and those flare ups to a minimum.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriasis/5-things-to-stop-doing-right-now-for-psoriasis 

8 Gentle Beauty Tricks for Psoriasis Skin

From healthline.com

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Living with psoriasis can make it challenging to feel comfortable in your skin, especially during flare-ups. Symptoms like dryness and blotchiness can be embarrassing and painful. Sometimes you may even feel like you should stay home instead of being social. 

But psoriasis doesn’t have to control your life. Try these eight simple beauty tricks to help alleviate some of your psoriasis symptoms.

1. Moisturise daily

Keeping your skin moisturized is a simple yet effective way to manage psoriasis. There are countless types of moisturizing creams, lotions, and ointments on the market that help treat dry or itchy skin. Talk to your doctor about which one might work best for you.

The best time to apply moisturizer is immediately after stepping out of the bath or shower, when your skin is soft and moist. In colder weather, you may need to apply moisturizer several times a day. During the summer months, try to moisturize only once or twice every day to avoid over-saturating your skin.

2. Take warm baths

Warm baths are great for relieving psoriasis symptoms like dry skin and itchiness. You should always use a mild soap to avoid irritation. But it’s OK to add bath oil, oatmeal, or Epsom salts if you want to feel a bit more luxurious. Try to avoid taking hot showers since they can often dry out your skin. When you’re finished bathing, gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing the towel all over your body to avoid chafing.

3. Scrub lightly

When bathing or removing your makeup, always scrub lightly to prevent irritating your skin. Use a soft washcloth instead of more abrasive options like loofas, which can make your psoriasis symptoms worse. Try to use gentle or chemical-free beauty products whenever possible. Also, don’t scratch, pick, or rub the sensitive patches of psoriasis on your skin, no matter how good it might feel.

4. Get some sun

Psoriasis skin can benefit significantly from exposure to UV light from the sun. Try to spend at least 15 minutes outdoors every day. But don’t overdo it — sunburns can sometimes trigger flare-ups. Regular, controlled periods of sunlight exposure will help to manage symptoms and improve your general sense of well-being. In the winter months, when there are fewer hours of sunlight available, your doctor may be able to provide phototherapy treatments that can act as a UV light substitute.

5. Change your diet

While researchers have yet to establish a firm link between psoriasis and diet, many people with psoriasis have seen positive results from adopting an anti-inflammatory diet. The best foods to reduce inflammation are those high in omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, olive oil, pumpkin seeds), and colourful fruits and vegetables (spinach, carrots, blueberries, mangos). As a general rule, try to avoid foods that are known to cause inflammation, such as red meat, dairy products, and nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers).

6. Manage your stress

If you can manage to keep your stress levels under control, your skin may start to look healthier. Excessive stress is related to psoriasis flare-ups. Since flare-ups are a significant source of stress, this can be a vicious cycle if not properly managed.

There are a number of quick and easy ways to reduce your stress levels from the comfort of your own home, like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing techniques. Getting outside for some exercise can also help you de-stress, with the bonus of some beneficial time in the sun. But you don’t have to over-exert yourself. Even a brisk walk around your neighbourhood will help alleviate stress and foster a sense of calmness and tranquillity.

7. Overhaul your wardrobe

The key to a functional and fashionable wardrobe that doesn’t irritate your psoriasis is layers. Heavier fabrics like wool and polyester can be scratchy and cause uncomfortable friction against sensitive patches of skin. Try to dress in layers with a smooth, soft fabric like cotton or bamboo on the bottom.

It’s also a good idea to choose clothes that are looser than they are tight. Don’t feel like you need to make any huge changes to your style, but keep in mind that your favourite skinny jeans or spandex shorts might not be the best option if you’re experiencing a flare-up.

8. Be confident

Finally, an essential beauty tip for taking control of your psoriasis is to be confident and comfortable in your skin. Sure, sometimes you’ll experience flare-ups that might make you feel self-conscious. But you can show the world you’re in control of owning who you are. Don’t let your psoriasis determine your self-worth.

Also, be open to talking about your condition if people in your social circle have questions. The more informed your friends and family are about psoriasis, the less you’ll feel like you have to cover it up.

https://www.healthline.com/health/moments-that-matter-with-psoriasis/beauty-hacks?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=psoriasis&utm_content=2023-06-20&utm_term=s:hl_n:pso&apid=39239719&rvid=058431b717dcfa59c0cdd27cd0a9313769e8b3dd4ad59d88efd0ded7ddb4774e