Winter can be a challenging time for those living with psoriasis. The colder temperatures, drier air, and reduced sunlight exposure can all contribute to flare-ups, making itchy and uncomfortable plaques worse.
Cold, dry air can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, making it even more challenging to manage. Understanding the underlying causes of psoriasis and the factors that trigger flare-ups is crucial for effective management.
By recognizing these triggers and implementing appropriate strategies, you can minimize the impact of psoriasis on your daily life. Triggers may vary from person to person.
However, by taking some proactive steps, you can manage your psoriasis and enjoy the winter months. Keep reading to learn 10 essential winter care tips for psoriasis sufferers!
1. Maintain a Consistent Moisturizing Routine
Dry, cracked skin can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. To combat this, Dr. Adam Ford, board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology, explains that, “ Maintaining a consistent moisturizing routine is always helpful, but it is especially vital throughout the winter months. Keeping dry skin under control will also help prevent flares of psoriasis and potentially bothersome symptoms.”
Look for thick, fragrance-free ointments or creams that contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or petrolatum. These ingredients help lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on your skin.
Aim to moisturize at least once daily after showering or bathing, and more frequently if needed.
2. Invest in a Humidifier
Cold winter air can be particularly harsh on your skin, stripping it of moisture and leading to dryness. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help prevent your skin from drying out and worsening psoriasis symptoms.
Your doctor may suggest using a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom at night, especially if you notice your psoriasis tends to flare up during sleep. Remember to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
3. Adjust your Shower Routine
Long, hot showers can be tempting during the winter, but they can actually be detrimental to your psoriasis. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated.
Opt for lukewarm showers instead and keep them for a shorter duration – ideally 10 minutes or less. Consider using fragrance-free, gentle cleansers that won’t irritate your skin.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it after showering and apply moisturizer immediately to lock in moisture.
4. Dress for Comfort and Avoid Irritating Fabrics
The clothes you wear during winter can significantly impact your psoriasis. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton that won’t irritate your skin.
Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can rub against affected areas and worsen symptoms. Layering can be a good strategy for staying warm without sacrificing comfort.
Wear a thin, soft layer of cotton clothing directly on your skin, followed by looser-fitting layers on top.
5. Manage Stress Levels
Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. During the winter months, stress levels can often rise due to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), holiday pressures, and changes in routine.
Finding healthy ways to manage stress can be crucial for controlling your psoriasis. Consider activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help you relax and de-stress.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can contribute to overall health and potentially help manage psoriasis symptoms. Focus on consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
These foods are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help reduce inflammation. Consider incorporating omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish, like salmon, into your diet.
Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful for managing psoriasis.
7. Don’t Neglect Exercise
Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also be beneficial for your skin. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and boost your immune system, all of which can contribute to managing psoriasis symptoms.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week. If cold weather discourages you from exercising outdoors, consider joining a gym, participating in online fitness classes, or finding alternative indoor activities like swimming or dancing.
8. Light Therapy Can Be Helpful
Sunlight exposure can be beneficial for psoriasis sufferers. However, during winter months, sunlight exposure can be limited.
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, can be a good option to supplement your natural sunlight exposure. This treatment involves exposing your skin to controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light, which can help slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Talk to your doctor about whether light therapy might be a suitable treatment option for you.
9. Maintain Open Communication with Your Dermatologist
If you experience a psoriasis flare-up during winter, it’s important to communicate with your dermatologist. Regular check-ups throughout the year are essential, especially during winter when your psoriasis may be more prone to flare-ups.These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your condition, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and address any concerns you may have.
Dr. Robert Greenberg, the Director of The East Bay Psoriasis Treatment Center, has done pharmacological studies on psoriasis and is consider a national leader in treatment of psoriasis. His clinics, Golden State Dermatology in Livermore and San Ramon, are referral centers for psoriasis. Dr. Greenberg explains, “Creating more personalized care plans is almost completely dependent on the information that is provided, meaning a more communicative patient may receive more individualized solutions. We always strive to ensure the patient is comfortable at all stages. This open dialogue allows us to better understand each patient’s unique triggers and symptoms, leading to more effective treatment strategies.”
10. Prioritize Self-Care
Winter can be a challenging time for everyone, but it can be particularly difficult for those managing chronic skin conditions like psoriasis. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your overall well-being and managing your psoriasis symptoms.
Prioritize self-care activities that help you relax and de-stress, such as taking warm baths, practicing mindfulness techniques, or spending time in nature.
What Are the Treatment Options for Psoriasis?
Golden State Dermatology’s experienced dermatologists will work closely with patients to determine the most appropriate treatment plan and monitor their progress throughout the treatment process. You will receive customized solutions that cater to your unique skin needs.
This could range from topical treatments, including corticosteroids, to light therapy. For more severe psoriasis, systemic therapies may be used, including biologics. For more severe cases of psoriasis, Golden State Dermatology offers a variety of systemic therapies, including biologics, which target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
Schedule A Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with psoriasis or other skin conditions, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with your doctor at Golden State Dermatology. Our experienced dermatologists can provide personalized advice and treatment options to help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life.
