Living with psoriasis can make you feel uncomfortable in your skin, especially during flare-ups. Symptoms like dryness and blotchiness can be embarrassing and painful. Sometimes you may even feel like you should stay home and not be social.
But psoriasis doesn't have to control your life. Try these eight simple beauty tricks to help alleviate some of the symptoms of psoriasis.
1. moisturize daily
Keeping your skin moisturized is a simple but effective way to fight psoriasis. There are countless types of moisturizers, lotions, and ointments on the market to help treat dry or itchy skin. Talk to your doctor about which one might be best for you.
The best time to apply moisturizer is immediately after getting out of the bath or shower, when your skin is soft and moisturized. In cooler weather, you may need to apply moisturizer several times a day. During the summer months, try to moisturize only once or twice a day to avoid over-saturating your skin.
2 - Take warm baths
Warm baths are great for relieving psoriasis symptoms such as dry skin and itching. Always use a mild soap to avoid irritation. But if you want to feel a little more luxurious, you can add bath oil, oatmeal or Epsom salts. Try to avoid hot showers, as they can often dry out your skin. Once you've finished bathing, gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing a towel all over your body to avoid chafing.
3. scrub lightly
When bathing or removing makeup, always scrub lightly to prevent skin irritation. Use a soft cloth instead of more abrasive options, such as loofahs, which can make psoriasis symptoms worse. Try to use gentle or chemical-free cosmetic products whenever possible. Don't scratch, pick or rub sensitive psoriasis patches on your skin, no matter how good it feels.
4 - Get some sun.
Psoriasis skin can benefit significantly from exposure to UV sunlight. Try to spend at least 15 minutes outdoors every day. But don't overdo it - sunburn can sometimes cause flare-ups. Regular, controlled periods of sunlight exposure will help manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. During the winter months, when fewer hours of sunlight exposure are available, your doctor may provide phototherapy treatments that can act as a substitute for UV light.
5. change your diet
While researchers have yet to establish a firm link between psoriasis and diet, many psoriasis sufferers have seen positive results from an anti-inflammatory diet. The best foods to reduce inflammation are those rich in omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, olive oil, pumpkin seeds) and colorful fruits and vegetables (spinach, carrots, blueberries, mangoes). As a general rule, try to avoid foods known to cause inflammation, such as red meat, dairy products and nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers).
6 Manage your stress
If you can keep your stress levels under control, your skin can start to look healthier. Excessive stress has been linked to an increase in psoriasis. Since flare-ups are a significant source of stress, it can be a vicious cycle if not managed properly.
There are a number of quick and easy ways to reduce your stress levels from the comfort of your own home, like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing techniques. Getting outside for some exercise can also help you de-stress, with the bonus of some beneficial time in the sun. But you don't have to exert yourself too much. Even a brisk walk around your neighborhood will help relieve stress and support a sense of calm and tranquility.
7. overhaul your wardrobe
The key to a functional and fashionable wardrobe that doesn't irritate your psoriasis is layers. Heavier fabrics, such as wool and polyester, can be scratchy and cause uncomfortable friction on sensitive patches of skin. Try to dress in layers with a smooth, soft fabric such as cotton or bamboo on the bottom.
It's also a good idea to choose clothes that are looser than tight. Don't feel you have to change your style, but keep in mind that your favorite skinny jeans or spandex shorts may not be the best option if you experience discoloration.
8. be confident
Finally, an important beauty tip for managing psoriasis is to be confident and comfortable in your skin. Sure, sometimes you will experience breakouts that can make you feel self-conscious. But you can show the world that you are in control of who you are. Don't let your psoriasis determine your self-esteem.
Also, be open to talking about your condition if people in your social circle have questions. The more informed your friends and family are about psoriasis, the less you will feel like you have to hide it.
