There’s no wonder that winter takes a toll on our skin. Frost, wind, heavy clothing and indoor heating can pose some special challenges for those who have psoriasis.
Psoriasis can be really hard, however, it’s possible to control psoriasis and pamper yourself at the same time. Here are some tips for dealing with winter psoriasis.
1. Use a moisturizer
To reduce itching and redness and to heal psoriasis patches you should always keep your skin moist. The thicker the ointment or cream, the better it’s at locking water into your skin.
After you bathe, shower, or wash your hands, use a moisturizing soap and a creamy lotion. To avoid allergic reactions you need to choose fragrance-free products.
2. Take soothing baths
Long hot showers remove moisture from your skin. Instead, you can shower in warm water to soap up and rinse off. But what about taking soothing baths?
Just add oiled oatmeal, some oil, or the Dead Sea salts in a warm but not hot bath, soak for about 15 minutes to slough away scales, soothe itching, and relax. Don’t forget to apply some moisturizer right after.
3. Dress in layers
Chilly wind and temperatures can irritate your skin and trigger psoriasis flare-ups. In addition, they make psoriatic arthritis even more painful.
When you go outside, wrap up in a hat, soft scarf, and gloves to protect exposed areas of your skin. To avoid getting overheated try to dress in layers because sweating can make psoriasis even worse. Avoid denim, wool, and other fabrics, which can irritate your skin.
4. Drink water
In order to pump up moisture, you should drink more water. I hope you know that if you are getting enough water your urine will be a pale yellow. But if your urine is dark-colored or bright yellow, you need to drink more water.
5. Improve your mood
Psoriasis can increase the risk of depression. That’s why if you have SAD (seasonal affective disorder), these months can be an extra challenge.
If you’re constantly depressed or sad, you should talk to your doctor. Maybe you need some light therapy or some antidepressant medicine to boost your mood.
6. Relax
During the winter season, there are many holidays, which are full of cheer, and which can also bring stress that can make psoriasis flare. Try to find time to relax during these holidays.
You can try a moisturizing spa or massage treatment to beat winter blues. And don’t forget about exercise. It’s not only a great stress reliever, but it can also help to protect you from flare-ups.
7. Use a humidifier
If you want to wake up with smooth and moist skin, try to use a humidifier. Run it at night in your bedroom to remove that drying effect of indoor heating. To avoid the build-up of bacteria makes sure to follow the instructions for cleaning the humidifier.
8. Improve your treatment plan
If your psoriasis usually gets worse during the winter months, you need to talk with your doctor. Some simple adjustments to your medicines or even some phototherapy may improve your winter symptoms. It’s one of the most important ways to deal with psoriasis.
These are all tips for dealing with winter psoriasis. Do you know some other tips? Share your thoughts, please!
