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Skin psoriasis is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful skin condition that can affect any area of the body. In this article, we’re delving into what the condition is, what triggers it, and potential treatments for managing psoriasis flare-ups. We’ve also included the best skincare products for mild psoriasis and psoriasis-prone skin.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes painful, itchy, and white crusty patches on the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most common on the scalp, back, knees, and elbows. However, you may also experience psoriasis on the face, nail psoriasis, psoriasis on hands, and psoriasis on feet.
There are times when symptoms of psoriasis are in remission or extremely mild to severe psoriasis flare-ups. There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are treatments available.
What causes psoriasis?
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The root cause of psoriasis isn’t entirely clear. However, researchers believe it’s most likely an autoimmune response when white blood cells attack and inflame healthy skin cells. Genetic and environmental factors may also play a role.
What creates psoriasis flare-ups?
There’s no cure for psoriasis. However, it can go into periods of remission when there are no visible symptoms of the painful skin condition. There are also times when psoriasis reappears, which is called a flare-up. Knowing what causes psoriasis outbreaks can help reduce flare-ups. Triggers often include:
- Stress
- A highly-inflammatory diet
- Changes in weather
- A skin injury (e.g., cuts, bruises, or sunburn).
- Drinking alcohol excessively
- Smoking
Common types of psoriasis
There are many different types of psoriasis, some more unusual than others. Below are the most common forms.
Plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) - Around 80% of psoriasis cases are plaque psoriasis. Scaly patches tend to show up around the elbows, back, knees, and scalp.
Nail psoriasis - Psoriasis of the nails is characterised by discoloured, pitted, and dented nails. Occasionally, the nail crumbles, but this is considered severe.
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Scalp psoriasis - This chronic skin condition can develop across the entire scalp or in patches, for example, at the base of the skull. Scalp psoriasis may cause hair loss, although this is usually in extreme circumstances. The hair will likely grow back once the psoriasis heals.
Guttate psoriasis - Small, raised sores appear on the body that are typically red and itchy. The sores may clear up on their own, but they can also develop into more severe psoriasis.
Inverse (flexural) psoriasis - This type of psoriasis is found in skin creases, such as elbow creases, beneath the breasts, the groin, and between the buttocks. The patches are large, flat, and red and can be extremely painful.
The best treatment for psoriasis
Depending on the severity, psoriasis has different treatments. In some cases, flare-ups can be soothed with creams and ointments, whereas others may require medical attention and injections.
Psoriasis creams and lotions
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In mild cases of psoriasis, skincare creams and lotions can soothe the aggravated area. It’s also wise to continue using skincare for psoriasis even when patches have cleared up to prevent aggravation from other irritating ingredients.
A wholefoods diet
Psoriasis causes skin inflammation. A great way to calm the symptoms is to eat a diet rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from potential inflammation. You might want to try lentils, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and probiotics like sauerkraut.
Managing stress levels
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Stress is a primary culprit of psoriasis flare-ups because it releases the inflammatory hormone cortisol. Simply, ‘not getting stressed’ isn’t realistic. Therefore, being aware of your stress levels and finding ways to manage them could reduce the trigger of psoriasis. Meditation, walks in nature, a good diet, and, most importantly, a healthy night’s sleep are great stress reducers.
Medication and injections
In some circumstances, doctors prescribe oral medications and injections to treat psoriasis. However, this varies from case to case.
Avoiding triggers
One of the best ways to minimise aggravating psoriasis is to avoid potential triggers. For example, use gentle ingredients in skincare, wear soft and breathable clothing, apply suncream to prevent sunburn, get plenty of sleep, and eat nutritious foods.
Best calming skincare products for mild psoriasis
Skincare can play a significant role in making mild psoriasis better or worse. Choosing creams and washes that soothe the skin with gentle ingredients is the best way forward. Check out our recommendations for mild psoriasis skin care:
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MooGoo is a skincare company developed due to the founder’s mother’s psoriasis. Their products are tested on humans (not animals) to ensure their effectiveness. Their Sensitive Skin Balm is formulated to treat mild cases of psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
What’s inside?
If you have mild scalp psoriasis, you can try soothing the scalp using MooGoo’s Scalp Cream. The moisturising formula sinks into the skin, working to soothe an itchy head and reduce soreness. Apply to the patches on your scalp at the first signs of a psoriasis flare-up and continue using until it clears. You can also apply the cream around your hairline and face.
What’s inside?
- Sweet almond oil
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Vitamin E
- Aloe vera leaf
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Faith in Nature is a beautiful brand that blends natural ingredients to keep skin hydrated and soothed. Their aloe vera shampoo uses the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties to calm scalp inflammation, leaving the skin moisturised and promoting soft hair. This shampoo is best used after the psoriasis has healed to maintain a healthy scalp.
What’s inside?
Using a gentle body and face wash is essential to avoid psoriasis triggers. MooGoo’s Milk Wash softly cleanses the body with natural ingredients for hydrated and soft skin. You can use it in the shower as a body wash or on your face to refresh your skin without irritation.
What’s inside?
- Coconut-derived foaming agent
- Glycerin based conditioner
- Natural vanilla fragrance
Soothe mild psoriasis with gentle skincare
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Using the right skincare products can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding psoriasis flare-ups or soothing psoriasis patches. Try gentle ingredients for mild psoriasis breakouts and to soothe redness, itching, and flaking. If the psoriasis worsens when using specific products, cease use immediately, and if you have severe psoriasis, ensure that you seek medical attention.
