If you are suffering from psoriasis, chances are that you’re well aware that certain factors can trigger it.  But new studies show that there are other ways to manage severe flare-ups.  And the cherry on the top is they are already backed by science and trusted by many.

Psoriasis flare-ups can be unpredictable, but staying informed and open to new findings might just give you the edge in managing them better.

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition—it’s an autoimmune disease that causes the rapid build-up of skin cells, leading to red, itchy, and often scaly patches on the skin. The severity and frequency of flare-ups can vary greatly from person to person, and triggers like stress, diet, weather changes, or certain medications can make things worse. While there is no cure, psoriasis is manageable with the right treatment plan, which often includes a combination of skincare, lifestyle changes, and medical therapies. Staying consistent with your routine and being mindful of triggers can help you maintain control and minimise flare-ups, leading to a more comfortable and balanced life.

 

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5 Ways to Manage Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Moisturise Your Skin

Trust us when we say this- when it comes to managing psoriasis, one of the simplest and most effective steps is to moisturise your skin regularly. Dryness can trigger flare-ups and make the skin more irritated, more than what you might think. And using any harsh products on top of it can even worsen the situation. There comes gentle, fragrance-free cream or lotion to manage the situation. It helps seal in moisture and protect the skin’s natural barrier. During flare-ups, thicker creams tend to work better because they provide extra protection and keep the skin from losing moisture too quickly. Between flare-ups, a lighter lotion can help maintain hydration without overwhelming your skin. Also, applying your moisturiser right after your bath, shower, or hand washing, works wonders. But remember to reapply as needed throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to use products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin, as they’re less likely to cause irritation. Ask your dermatologist for the same and check the ingredients for allergens to be on a safer side.

It’s also worth mentioning that changing the levels of interferon kappa, a protein found in skin cells, has been shown to affect the severity of psoriasis. This protein is involved in inflammation, which is a core feature of psoriasis. A study from Michigan Medicine showed that reducing interferon kappa levels could decrease inflammation, which might lead to less severe flare-ups. So, moisturising regularly can help protect your skin and potentially reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by preventing the dryness that contributes to inflammation. Moisturizing isn’t just about comfort—it can play a role in managing flare-ups and keeping your skin as healthy as possible.

 

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Follow a Gentle Self-Care Routine

Harsh scrubbing or using abrasive products can irritate your skin and make symptoms worse. So it’s best to keep things simple, soothing and gentle. For example, avoid using rough washcloths or exfoliating scrubs that could damage the skin's surface. Instead, opt for soft, gentle cloths and cleansers that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. This helps to avoid aggravating the skin while still keeping it clean.

Also, when it comes to bathing, avoid hot water, which can dry out your skin and trigger a flare-up. It’s better to shower with cool or lukewarm water and keep the time in the water short—around five minutes for a shower and 15 minutes for a bath. To make bath time even more soothing, try adding ingredients like Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal to the water. These can help ease itching and reduce inflammation. Surprisingly, vanilla flavour is not just interesting anymore, just as an icecream or a muffin flavour. Vanillin, a compound found in vanilla extract, has also shown promise in studies for its potential to reduce skin inflammation associated with psoriasis. Including products that have soothing properties, like those with vanilla or oatmeal, can enhance your skincare routine. Being gentle with your skin, avoiding hot water, and using soothing products can go a long way in reducing irritation and keeping your psoriasis under control.

 

Make Necessary Dietary Adjustments 

Research from King's College London found that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean meats, while being low in salt and sugar, is linked to a reduction in the severity of psoriasis. This type of diet helps reduce inflammation and supports overall skin health. Incorporating more plant-based foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains can provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, which help the body combat inflammation. Lean meats and low-fat dairy offer protein and calcium without contributing to excess fat that could worsen inflammation. On the other hand, reducing salt and sugar intake may help lower the inflammatory response, keeping your skin more balanced.

A healthy diet can support your immune system and skin barrier, which is crucial for individuals with autoimmune conditions like psoriasis. It is true that dietary changes alone may not cure psoriasis, but they can certainly help reduce flare-ups and make the condition more manageable over time.

 

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Manage Stress Through Yoga and Meditation

Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, and learning how to manage it is essential for keeping your condition in check. One effective way to reduce stress is through yoga and meditation. Both practices help calm the mind and promote relaxation, which can reduce the body’s overall stress response. Yoga, with its gentle stretching and breathing exercises, helps improve blood circulation and releases tension, which can also benefit your skin. Meditation, on the other hand, encourages mindfulness and deep breathing, which can help you manage the emotional and physical stress that often comes with psoriasis.

When stress is reduced, the body’s inflammatory response also lessens, which is particularly beneficial for managing psoriasis. It's not just about soothing your mind, but also calming the physical inflammation that often flares up during times of high stress. 

 

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Wear Loose, Soft Fabrics to Prevent Irritation

The clothes you wear can have a significant impact on your skin, especially when managing a condition like psoriasis. Tight or rough fabrics can cause irritation, chafing, and discomfort, which can trigger flare-ups. To protect your skin, it’s important to wear loose, soft fabrics that don’t rub or irritate the affected areas. Cotton and bamboo fabrics are great choices because they are breathable, soft, and gentle on the skin. 
Cotton helps absorb moisture, keeping your skin dry and reducing the risk of irritation, while bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic and has antibacterial properties that can be soothing. By choosing clothes made from these materials, you create a more comfortable environment for your skin, especially during flare-ups when your skin is more sensitive.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.