Psoriasis Flare-Ups Can Get Worse in the Summer—Here’s How Dermatologists Want You To Deal

From wellandgood.com

Summertime can mean fun and all things outdoors, but for those suffering from psoriasis —a skin condition marked by red, scaly patches that itch and burn—showing more of your skin can leave you feeling vulnerable. But it's not all bad news: Summer is known to bring relief to psoriasis sufferers, because ultraviolet (UV) rays, specifically UVB, have anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to improve those patchy, itchy bumps.

“The added moisture in the air helps prevent plaque psoriasis patches from cracking, and can provide symptomatic relief from pain and itch,” says Mona Shahriari, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, partner at Central Connecticut Dermatology, and President of the Connecticut Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery. “Moreover, the warm weather can lessen psoriatic joint pain in those individuals with concomitant psoriatic arthritis.”

But! That doesn't give those dealing with psoriasis a free pass to bake in the sun all day. Too much sun and not enough protection can have the opposite effect and trigger flare-ups. And other warm-weather aspects—like sweat, bug bites, allergies, and excessive heat—can leave skin irritated and uncomfortable.

So, what’s the best way to navigate the summer months? We asked the experts who shared their best tips and tricks for managing psoriasis this summer season, and explained how to use that extra sunshine to your advantage.

What is psoriasis, and what treatments are available?

Broadly speaking, psoriasis is a skin condition that manifests in different ways, but commonly includes itchy, scaly plaques on elbows, knees, and other parts of the body. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that can worsen or improve over time, but there is no cure, says Alexa Mieses Malchuk, MD, MPH, district medical director and board-certified family physician of One Medical.

“Psoriasis can affect one small part of the body, or cause a rash to occur in many different body parts at once,” she says. “People with psoriasis may notice that certain weather patterns, eating habits, and stress levels can impact their condition. Luckily, there are a broad array of treatments for psoriasis.”

The most common treatments include keeping skin moisturized and applying topical steroid creams, similar to the ones used for eczema. Dr. Mieses Malchuk adds that there are other non-steroid options as well, including pills, ointments, and injections that target different parts of the immune system to improve psoriasis symptoms. While prescription medication is often necessary, there are some things you can try at home to help control psoriasis.  “For example, coal tar extract is available over-the-counter and can be applied in the shower,” she says. “Sun exposure can also help symptoms, as can minimizing stress and eating more plant-based foods.

How to prevent psoriasis in the summer

1. Swim in saltwater

If you’ve got plans to visit the beach this summer, be sure to take a dip in the ocean. Going for a swim in salt water can break down the thick skin plaques caused by psoriasis, and allow sunlight to target the inflammation underneath. It can also help remove dead skin and improve the appearance of plaque psoriasis. But be warned, the chlorinated water in most pools can dry out the skin, so it's best to skip those or limit your time in them. Dr. Shahriari recommends applying a thick moisturizer to your skin prior to going in the water, as this forms a shield against the drying effects of the water. Rinse off immediately after swimming and re-apply moisturizer to maintain the health of your skin.

2. Protect your skin from sunburns

Safe sun exposure can reduce inflammation from psoriasis, but too much sun can cause sunburns which can trigger a flare-up. Dr. Mieses Malchuk recommends applying sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 and broad-spectrum protection (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) to any exposed areas of skin, including any psoriasis plaques before sitting out in the sun.

3. Lean into your vacation

Anxiety can worsen psoriasis symptoms, so take advantage of your summer travels and enjoy the time off to relax and relieve stress. If you’re leaving town, be sure to pack enough of your prescription medicines and over-the-counter products, including moisturizers. This can help you manage any flare-ups while you’re away.

4. Take advantage of AC (but remember to moisturize regularly)

Dr. Mieses Malchuk says that heat and excess sweat can cause psoriasis to flare so take advantage of any air conditioning you can find. However, air conditioning can dry out the skin, so be sure to slather on a heavy moisturizer before you bask in the cool air. “Moisturized skin can improve the appearance of dry, scaly patches on the skin, and decrease itching,” she says.

5. Choose breathable clothing

Pull out your favourite flowy dresses and breathable cotton shirts, as these are the best types of clothing to wear if you suffer from psoriasis. The lightweight materials don’t stick to the skin, which makes them less likely to cause itching and discomfort.

Dr. Shahriari says that it is worth noting that these summertime recommendations may not apply to everyone’s unique skin, so it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to develop a summer treatment plan and determine appropriate ways to enjoy the weather.

https://www.wellandgood.com/summer-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

What Kind of Doctor Treats Psoriatic Arthritis?

From healthcentral.com

Rheumatologists and dermatologists are the primary doctors for this condition, but you may require additional experts to treat PsA complications

You may know psoriatic arthritis (PsA) as a joint and skin condition, but this disease can cause symptoms from head to toe. The unpredictable nature of psoriatic arthritis symptoms that can come and go without explanation is frustrating. So it’s no surprise that managing your condition may require a team of health care experts with varying skills. Rheumatologists and dermatologists may end up being your go-to PsA providers, but you may recruit others to your team in order to reach your wellness goals.

Some of the various psoriatic arthritis doctors and other experts you may work with to treat this complex condition include:

• General Practitioner (overall health care)

• Cardiologist (heart specialist)

• Dermatologist (skin specialist)

• Gastroenterologist (gut specialist)

• Nutritionist (diet specialist)

• Occupational Therapist (everyday activity specialist)

• Ophthalmologist (eye specialist)

• Physical Therapist (movement specialist)

• Psychologist (mental health specialist)

• Rheumatologist (autoimmune specialist)

Let’s take a closer look at the professionals you’ll be relying on most and how they may be able to help you better manage your psoriatic arthritis.

Primary Care Providers

It’s likely that before your PsA diagnosis, you had a general practitioner (a.k.a. GP or family doctor) who you saw on a regular basis. With a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis, it’s important to continue your relationship and not to lose contact with your GP, says Eric Ascher, M.D., a family medicine physician at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

“Your general practitioner will keep a large and detailed history so they are able to ensure your other medical conditions are being monitored and be sure your medications will not interact with psoriatic arthritis treatment plans from specialists, like a rheumatologist,” he explains. Your general practitioner will likely see you in closer intervals than you see your specialists, Dr. Ascher adds, so they will able to keep close tabs on your treatment.

Research suggests that strong communication with your doctor improves treatment outcomes, and that starts with your primary care doctor. “One of the most important reasons to follow up with a primary care doctor is for the physician-patient relationship,” says Dr. Ascher. “Patients will likely feel comfortable sharing and opening up.”

Rheumatologists

Rheumatologists are medical doctors who completed extra training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal and autoimmune diseases (a.k.a. rheumatic diseases). Their role in the care of your psoriatic arthritis is to diagnose what type of disease you have and then treat it with nonsurgical methods, according to the American College of Rheumatology. Because psoriatic arthritis medications often require a trial-and-error process, your rheumatologist will follow your progress throughout the year to determine if any change in your treatment is needed.

Dermatologists

Psoriatic arthritis affects about one in three people with the skin condition psoriasis. This means that there is a good chance your skin is involved in your PsA symptoms. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in skin, hair, and nail issues, so if you had psoriasis first, your dermatologist may also have been the first to diagnose your psoriatic arthritis. If you start a new treatment for your psoriatic arthritis, you’ll want to keep your dermatologist in the loop to monitor your skin, hair, and nails.

Other Doctors Who Treat Psoriatic Arthritis

Along with your core team of medical experts, you may need to branch out and include one of these providers in the mix, depending on your psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

Cardiologist

The inflammation that you feel in your joints may also impact your cardiovascular system. That’s why individuals with psoriatic arthritis have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and more cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. This means that even if you are relatively young with PsA, a regular check-in with a cardiologist, or heart doctor, may be necessary.

Gastroenterologist

People with psoriatic disease have a up to a four-fold increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) compared to the general population, according to the journal Frontiers. The likely reason: The same inflammatory response that is triggered by your immune system to cause PsA symptoms is also responsible for aggravating your digestive system in conditions like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis. A gastroenterologist is trained to diagnose and treat digestive diseases, including these types of IBD.

Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who treat conditions of the eye. Bringing an ophthalmologist onto your health care team may be beneficial. Over 40% of people with psoriatic disease develop uveitis (a.k.a. inflammation of the eye) during their lifetime. So it’s important when you go for your regular eye exam to let your eye doctor know that you have PsA.

Who Helps With Daily Psoriatic Arthritis Challenges?

Beyond regular check-ups with your general practitioner and specialty health care providers, there are resources available to help you manage the day-to-day challenges of your condition.

Psychologist

“Mental health providers can make a big difference for those with chronic diseases like psoriatic arthritis,” says Naomi Torres-Mackie, M.D., a clinical psychologist at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Dr. Torres-Mackie says that adjusting to a chronic medical diagnosis can be difficult, and therapy is known to be effective in this area. “Psychotherapists can help those with PsA learn coping skills to manage social or generalised anxiety, depressive feelings, and/or low self-image associated with their diagnosis,” she explains.

Who should you look for to join your team? Dr. Torres-Mackie recommends social workers, mental health counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists who have training in psychotherapy for mental health symptoms related to chronic illness.

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists can help you improve your movement and manage pain. A 2022 review of physical therapy for psoriatic arthritis concluded that physical therapy helped people with PsA improve their strength, cardiovascular condition, and range of motion, while decreasing pain associated with the chronic disease. Your general practitioner may have a recommendation for a physical therapist. The American Physical Therapy Association also has a locator option on their website.

Nutritionist

Gut conditions, intestinal inflammation, and psoriatic arthritis are linked together, says Megan Hilbert, R.D.N., with Top Nutrition Coaching in Madison, WI. “If you have PsA, a registered dietitian can help you determine what foods can promote inflammation in your body—like added sugars, fried foods, refined carbohydrates—and what foods can help reduce inflammation, like dark leafy greens, nuts or seeds, and berries,” she says.

Changes in eating habits can be an overwhelming thought for many people, which is why a registered dietitian may be useful on your team. “A registered dietitian can also help come up with an individualized diet for you that can help remove trigger foods and promote a healthy gut microbiome,” Hilbert explains. How do you get started? Hilbert suggests reaching out to your general practitioner for a referral or checking out the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics locator to find an expert who may be a good match for you.

Why Do You Need More Than One Doctor for Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic and progressive condition that can extend beyond your skin and joints. That’s why a multidisciplinary approach is essential for the best health outcomes. From dermatologists to cardiologists, each provider can bring the latest knowledge in their field to ensure that all of your concerns are being addressed.

How to Choose the Right Doctors

Your go-to providers will be the first resources to help you build your health care team. Talk with your GP, rheumatologist, and dermatologist about your needs: They will know your medical history and personal preferences better than anyone. And don’t forget to ask the nurses in their offices for recommendations—they often have their ears to the ground and can tell you what they have heard. Your insurance provider may also be a good resource to determine which specialty providers are both nearby and participate in your plan.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/doctor-psoriatic-arthritis