Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. Characterised by red, flaky patches of skin, psoriasis is often misunderstood. While it’s not contagious, it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, with proper care and treatment, psoriasis can be managed effectively. In this article, we’ll discuss how to manage psoriasis, with expert advice from dermatologists to help you understand the condition better and live more comfortably.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder where the skin cells multiply too quickly, causing them to build up on the surface of the skin. This results in scaly, inflamed patches that can be itchy, painful and sometimes cracked or bleeding. The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, which presents as red patches covered by silvery scales. However, there are other types of psoriasis, including guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis, each varying in severity and appearance.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts for life. However, its severity can vary, with periods of flare-ups followed by times of remission. While there is no cure for psoriasis, it is possible to manage the symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis remains unclear, but it is generally accepted that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the condition. Psoriasis tends to run in families and those with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it themselves.
Environmental factors such as infections, stress, cold weather, smoking and alcohol consumption can trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups. It’s important to be mindful of these factors, as managing them effectively can play a significant role in controlling symptoms.
Tips from Dermatology Experts on Managing Psoriasis
Managing psoriasis requires a multifaceted approach, combining lifestyle changes, skin care, medication and sometimes professional treatment. Below are expert tips on how to manage psoriasis more effectively:
1. Moisturise Regularly
Keeping the skin hydrated is essential when managing psoriasis. Dry skin can worsen symptoms, leading to more frequent flare-ups. Dermatologists recommend using fragrance-free moisturisers that are thick and emollient, such as petroleum jelly or heavy creams, especially after a bath or shower.
Applying moisturiser immediately after bathing helps lock in moisture and prevents the skin from drying out. Regular moisturising not only helps manage the discomfort associated with psoriasis but also reduces the chances of cracking, bleeding, or developing more severe flare-ups.
2. Bathe with Care
While it might seem like a hot shower or bath could soothe itchy skin, hot water can actually strip the skin of its natural oils, making psoriasis symptoms worse. Instead, opt for lukewarm water, and limit bath time to 10-15 minutes.
Adding bath oils or colloidal oatmeal to your bath can help soften the skin and reduce itching. After bathing, gently pat the skin dry with a towel, rather than rubbing it, and apply moisturiser to retain hydration.
3. Use Medications as Directed
For many people with psoriasis, topical treatments such as corticosteroids, Vitamin D analogues, and coal tar products are essential to managing flare-ups. These medications can reduce inflammation, slow down the rapid turnover of skin cells, and help control symptoms.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when using topical treatments. Overuse of steroids, for instance, can lead to thinning of the skin, so it’s important to apply them sparingly and for short durations. If your psoriasis does not improve with topical treatments, your doctor may suggest other therapies such as phototherapy, systemic medications, or biologics.
4. Consider Light Therapy (Phototherapy)
Phototherapy is an effective treatment option for moderate to severe psoriasis. This involves exposing the skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. UVB light slows down the rapid growth of skin cells, helping to manage flare-ups.
Phototherapy can be done at a dermatology clinic or at home with a prescribed phototherapy device. However, it’s important to note that overexposure to UV light can lead to skin damage, so it should always be done under professional guidance.
5. Identify and Avoid Triggers
Psoriasis flare-ups are often triggered by external factors. It is crucial to identify and avoid these triggers to help manage the condition. Some common triggers include:
- Stress: Stress is a major trigger for many people with psoriasis. Learning stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce flare-ups.
- Cold weather: The cold, dry air during winter months can cause the skin to become dry, leading to flare-ups. Protect your skin by wearing appropriate clothing and using a humidifier in your home.
- Infections: Throat infections or other illnesses can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Regular handwashing, maintaining a healthy immune system and treating infections promptly can help prevent flare-ups.
- Smoking and alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can worsen psoriasis symptoms. Reducing or eliminating these habits can have a positive impact on managing psoriasis.
6. Watch Your Diet
While there is no direct evidence linking specific foods to psoriasis flare-ups, maintaining a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce inflammation in the body. Dermatologists often recommend consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish.
Some people with psoriasis report improvements when avoiding certain foods like dairy, gluten or red meat, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
7. Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can worsen psoriasis, particularly in areas like the folds of the skin. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the severity of flare-ups and improve overall skin health. Exercise is also beneficial for managing stress and boosting the immune system, both of which can contribute to controlling psoriasis symptoms.
Engaging in regular, moderate exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health, helping to prevent and manage flare-ups.
8. Seek Support
Living with psoriasis can sometimes feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Support groups, both in-person and online, provide a space for individuals with psoriasis to share experiences, tips and emotional support. Talking to others who understand your challenges can be comforting and encouraging.
If psoriasis is significantly affecting your life, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. Stress, anxiety and depression can all worsen psoriasis symptoms, so addressing mental health is an essential part of managing the condition.
Seeking Professional Help at Novus Health
If you have psoriasis and find that self-care and over-the-counter treatments are not effective, or if your condition is significantly impacting your life, it’s important to seek professional treatment. At Novus Health, our dermatology experts can offer personalised care and advanced treatment options to help manage your psoriasis more effectively.
If you’d like to see one of our dermatologists, speak with your GP, who can refer you into our dermatology service. We offer a range of treatments and can provide the support you need to manage your psoriasis, from topical therapies to advanced treatments like phototherapy and biologic medications.
Final Thoughts
While psoriasis is a lifelong condition, it doesn’t have to control your life. By taking a proactive approach to managing symptoms through medication, lifestyle changes and proper skin care, it is possible to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Collaborating with a healthcare professional and following the expert advice above will help you navigate the challenges of psoriasis and improve your overall quality of life.
With the right care, you can manage your psoriasis effectively and live more comfortably. If you or someone you know is struggling with psoriasis, speak with your GP to ask about a referral to Novus Health’s dermatology services. We’re here to help you regain control of your skin health and enjoy a better quality of life.
