Skin Care Routines for People With Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to reproduce too quickly, causing painful, itchy and inflamed scales on the skin. 

Treating your psoriasis is a very important part of managing your condition. Treatment options include topical and oral medications, relaxation techniques and phototherapy treatment. Phototherapy treatment is one of the most exciting and advanced treatments on the market for psoriasis. With phototherapy, you can take control of your skincare with the ability to treat your condition from the comfort of your own home.

With phototherapy, a portable handheld device emits narrowband UVB light. The rays help slow down the development of thick, scaly skin, with significant clearance usually seen within 15 to 20 sessions.

In addition to phototherapy treatment, there are additional everyday routines that can help you take care of your sensitive skin. While your doctor can help you create a regimen that’s perfect for you, here are some common suggestions for things you can do every day to help treat your psoriasis:

Start Your Day With a Gentle Cleanser

Look for a pH-balanced, ultra-gentle cleanser that will clean your face without drying it out. You can skip abrasive scrubs and invest in a high-quality, everyday product that cleans your face without stripping your skin of its natural oils. 

When it comes to cleansers, there are inexpensive options and fancy, luxurious options. What matters most is that you choose a product that works for you. Try a few face washes until you find one you really love. You may have to experiment with a few different options in order to find the one that works best with your skin. 

Moisturize Your Face and Body

After washing your hands and face, it’s essential to rehydrate your skin with a moisturizer. 

When picking out a moisturizer, look for a product that won’t clog your pores. You may need light moisturizers for daytime use, and thicker, heavier ones to use before bed. You’ll want to avoid fragrances or alcohol and be sure to reapply throughout the day, if necessary.

Your dermatologist can help you pick out products that work best with psoriasis. Or, read through real life reviews that people with psoriasis swear by. 

Apply SPF

Whether you’re in the midst of a psoriasis flare up or in remission, you should apply sunscreen every single day—even on cloudy days or days you don’t plan to go outside. 

The National Psoriasis Foundation issued new sunscreen guidelines in 2019, stating that sunburn can indeed make psoriasis worse. The Foundation now recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant mineral sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor of 30. 

If you are overwhelmed by all the products on the market, your dermatologist can likely suggest the ones that they prefer. 

Indulge in Self-Care

Skin care is self-care, and that’s even more true if you have psoriasis. If you can turn your skin care regimen into a routine that relaxes you, it can become doubly effective. That’s because stress is a major trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.

Try an Epsom salt bath while playing a guided meditation and lighting a few candles. Treat yourself to a new Netflix show while conducting at-home phototherapy. Or, try a hydrating face mask while curling up with a good book.

Psoriasis is a condition that requires daily attention and a lifetime commitment to skincare and health. With emerging technologies like phototherapy, psoriasis treatment doesn’t have to be cumbersome. Use phototherapy in combination with these basic skin care routines to tackle life with psoriasis with ease.