Though medication can reduce psoriasis, any other irritations on your skin can trigger psoriasis to flare up — even when you are taking medicines for psoriasis. That’s the reason dermatologists suggest some skin care tips to psoriasis patients that help them to manage psoriasis and avoiding triggers.
Taking care of skin can alleviate some of the discomfort that psoriasis patients face. Dermatologists suggest below tips for caring for psoriasis:
1. You should avoid skin injuries like nicks, cuts, and bug bites when you are suffering from psoriasis.
2. Avoid sunburn as sunburn can worsen the condition and even cause new psoriasis to form.
3. Do not itch psoriasis affected areas. Itch usually disappears as psoriasis clears. Itching while suffering from psoriasis can worsen the situation.
4. Never try to scratch as it can make the condition worse. To alleviate the itch from psoriasis, you can try the following:
- Apply a cold compress on the affected area.
- Apply medication until the psoriasis clears.
- Keep your skin moisturize all the time. Try to use a lotion during the day and a cream or ointment at night.
For normal psoriasis treatment, generally doctors suggest below tips from famous dermatologist Dr. Carolyn Jacob which you may follow at any stage of treatment:
1. Try to clean and moisturize your skin at least once daily to keep it hydrating.
2. Use a soft cloth while cleaning your skin rather than a loofah(luffa) because rubbing and scratching could make the condition worse.
3. Never use a harsh toner if you have psoriasis on your face, they can be aggravating.
4. During winter, always use a lighter lotion because it provides the extra hydration needed for your skin.
5. For scalp psoriasis, use light shampoos like Neutrogena T/Gel, DHS tar shampoos, or Neutrogena T/Sal. Don’t use something stronger, she likes Clobex. If you need to use something stronger or a steroid shampoo, please consult with a dermatologist first.