Psoriasis affects more than 125 million people worldwide, and the condition can be worsened by flare-ups. There are several triggers that can cause flare-ups. These include:
- Stress
- Injury to the skin (cuts, sunburns, bug bite)
- Medications
- Infections
- Diet
- Weather
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Shaving
Now that you know the triggers that can cause flare-ups, here are 5 tips to prevent them.
1. Use Moisturizers Regularly
Symptoms of psoriasis can worsen when the skin is dry, so make sure to keep it moist with creams and lotions. Thick lotions, such as petroleum jelly, will yield the best results, because they trap the moisture beneath the skin.
2. Take Care of Your Skin
Psoriasis is characterized by the buildup of skin cells which cause scales and dry itchy patches of skin. If you are affected by this condition, make sure to be extra careful with your skin. Don’t pick at any patches or scales as it may make the affected area worse. Be careful when trimming your nails, as a cut around that area may make symptoms flare-up.
3. Avoid Cold Weather
Climate can have a large effect on psoriasis symptoms. For many people with this condition, cold and dry weather makes symptoms worsen. Hotter weather can sometimes ease symptoms, but not always.
4. Use A Humidifier
Keep a humidifier in your home and turn it on when the air inside your house is dry. It’s extremely important to keep your skin moist and lock that moisture in with lotion or cream.
5. Get Some Sun
Ultraviolet rays in the sunlight can slow the growth of skin cells, so getting your skin into the sun can help ease your symptoms. We recommend 15 minutes of sun exposure per day, and it is important to keep your non-affected skin protected from sun to prevent sun burns and damage.
If you think you may be affected by psoriasis, Dr. Hawley can discuss your treatment options with you, and create a personalized treatment plan to help manage this condition. Psoriasis is not curable, but there are various ways to manage this condition and improve quality of life.