Tips for Reducing Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of red patches and dry, flaky skin. In most cases, the areas of skin that are affected by psoriasis itch and easily break open when scratched which will cause the area to bleed.

Though psoriasis can be uncomfortable, the physical appearance of the skin condition is often the most debilitating effect as outbreaks make a person feel self-conscious about his or her appearance. While treating psoriasis can be difficult, there are some things that can be done at home to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Add Moisture

Though moisturizers will not cure psoriasis, they will lessen the effects of the condition. Dry skin is more likely to itch, flake and break open than is well moisturized skin. By liberally applying moisturizer to the affected areas as often as possible, a person with psoriasis can help to reduce the visibility and discomfort of the condition.

Though there are a number of moisturizers and lotions available on the market for use with dry skin, petroleum jelly is an inexpensive moisturizer that works as well as more expensive choices.

Avoid Abrasion

A person with psoriasis should protect the affected areas of skin from abrasion. This includes carefully choosing shoes and clothing that do not rub against the affected areas of skin. When this is not possible, a person should use gauze or other soft bandages to cover the skin to add an additional layer of protection.

When outbreaks are present on the feet, a person should go without socks and shoes as much as possible. People should also avoid using a towel to rub the skin dry after a bath or shower. Rather, they should use the towel to pat the skin dry which will help to avoid inflaming the psoriasis outbreak.

In addition to abrasion, the skin needs to be protected from other injuries as well as injured skin is more likely to have an outbreak than healthy skin.

Catch Some Rays

The risks associated with excessive exposure to sunlight have caused many people to avoid sunlight. However, sunlight is needed by the body for a number of purposes. In fact, exposure to sunlight can help to reduce the effects of psoriasis and help to keep skin healthy.

The areas of skin that have outbreaks of psoriasis especially need to receive some sun exposure as often as possible. Of course, a person should take steps to avoid sunburns and protect the skin and eyes from damage from overexposure.

Those who are taking medication for psoriasis should consult with their doctor about sun exposure as some commonly used psoriasis medications can make the body sensitive to sunlight.

Healthy Living

A person who has good overall health is less likely to be affected by psoriasis. This means that those who have the condition need to take steps to live a more healthy life in order to reduce outbreaks. This means that a person needs to eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight and avoid the use of tobacco, alcohol and recreational drugs.

Food allergies and nutritional deficiencies may play a direct role in the occurrence of psoriasis. For example, allergies to gluten or dairy products may cause outbreaks. A person affected by the condition may also want to try adding more fruits and vegetables to his or her diet.