Treatments for psoriasis work by slowing down the growth of skin cells and eliminating scales. Itchy, inflamed skin caused by psoriasis is commonly treated with medications, topical treatments, and other therapies. A simple everyday skin care routine can help you get the most out of your treatment by promoting healing and calming flare-ups.


Following these tips on a daily basis may help reduce psoriasis flare-ups:


1. Keep Your Skin Moist: 

  • Moisture is one of the most efficient and simple remedies for itchy skin. It can aid in the healing of your skin as well as the reduction of dryness, irritation, redness, soreness, and scaling.
  • Your moisturizer should be chosen based on how dry your skin is. Ointments are thick, heavy, and effective moisture sealants. Lotions are thinner and more easily absorbed. You can also choose a cream that falls somewhere in the middle. Remember that a good product does not have to be pricey. Look for a moisturizer that isn't aromatic.
  • It's a good idea to gently pat on the lotion after your bath or shower. Reapply as needed throughout the day and while changing your clothes. On chilly or dry days, use extra. 
  • Using a humidifier in your house, especially when the air is hot and dry, is another approach to keep your skin moisturized. Turn the humidifier on when the heat is on. It will aid in the retention of moisture in your skin.


2. Soothe Yourself With Warm Baths: 

  • A daily warm bath with gentle soap can help to relieve itching patches and dry skin.
  • Soak in the warm water for 15 minutes. Oil, finely powdered oats, Epsom salt, or Dead Sea salt can be added to your bath, but keep the water and soap mild. Skin that is already sensitive might be irritated by high heat and harsh soaps.
  • When drying off, try not to rub your skin with the towel. Instead, gently pat dry. Rubbing can aggravate existing sores and potentially create new ones. Apply a moisturizer immediately thereafter.
  • If you don't have time for a bath, a moist towel or cold compress might be applied to the affected area.


3. Heal With Sunlight:

  • Because sunlight's ultraviolet (UV) radiation slows skin cell proliferation, modest doses of sun can help to soothe, improve, and even heal psoriasis lesions. Even indoor lighting has an impact.
  • Two or three times a week, try to get some sun and wear sunscreen on your healthy skin. Sun exposure (or sunburn) increases your risk of skin cancer and may exacerbate your breakouts.
  • Before incorporating UV treatment into your daily regimen, see your doctor. Also, make sure you get regular skin checks to ensure you aren't overdoing it.


4. Take It Easy: 

  • Stress has been shown in studies to aggravate psoriasis and itching. Some people can even relate their first breakout to a traumatic experience. Simply lessening your anxiousness may be enough to alleviate symptoms.
  • There are numerous methods for reducing stress. Create a network of family and friends to help you. Consider what matters most to you and make time for it. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can all be beneficial. Even a long walk around the block can help you relax.

Other strategies to de-stress include:

  • Eat healthy.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.

These will also help you fight off infections that may trigger flares. Find out how to get emotional support during psoriasis treatment.


5. Go Easy on Yourself: 

  • Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol-based lotions, deodorant soaps, acids (glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid), and even some laundry detergents. Your delicate skin may become inflamed as a result of this. Feel the fabric of the clothes you're considering purchasing. Make certain they're soft and comfy. Wool and mohair should be avoided. They can aggravate skin that is already irritated.


6. Try Not to Scratch and Pick:

  • There's no denying that when you have an itch, you want to scratch it; however, scratching can rip your skin open, allowing infection-causing microorganisms to enter. It may also cause sores to form where none previously existed. If you're itchy, keep your nails short and take an antihistamine.
  • Picking at your skin might sometimes result in an infection. Instead, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and softly rub moisturizer on your face.


7. Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol:

  • Flares can be triggered by smoking. Consult your doctor for advice on the best approach to quitting. Nicotine patches can aggravate psoriasis in some people.
  • Symptoms might also be triggered by excessive drinking. When used with some psoriasis medications, it can be quite harmful. If you do drink, limit yourself to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for males.


Reference: Fries, W. C. (n.d.). 7 Tips for Psoriasis Skin Care. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-skin-care-tips