5 Super Cheap Over-the-Counter Remedies

Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease which causes an over-reactive immune system that causes flaky, inflamed, dry, patches of skin to appear on the body. Since psoriasis truly starts from the inside, medical treatment for psoriasis from a doctor is imperative, but so are over-the-counter remedies to help with the symptoms of the disease. These 5 items will not cure your psoriasis but will help you to manage the itching, flakiness, and pain associated with the disease. The coolest part is everything on the list can be found at your local dollar store for just $1! Although these options can be found over the counter, please consult with your doctor before adding them to your skin care regimen.

Hydrocortisone cream

Hydrocortisone Creamis a topical steroid that works with the immune system to help relieve itching and inflammation for a variety of conditions including psoriasis. Medline Plus advises that this cream can be used as much as four times a day for skin problems. A mild dosage can be found at your local dollar tree, but anything stronger or an oral option must be prescribed by a doctor.

Vitamin D

You can gain a natural boost of vitamin D by laying out in the sun. There is a misconception that the sun "puts" vitamin D in the body, but in actuality, the sun does not add vitamin D to your body but helps to promote the production of it. Vitamin D helps with bone production and immune health. It has also been found to help those with psoriasis. In those with the condition, skin cells are producing at a higher than normal rate which causes the plaques of dead skin. Studies have found that vitamin D (or medications based on vitamin D, called a vitamin D analog) can change cell growth and slow it down helping to decrease plaques. You can help promote this process by taking vitamin D capsules or applying the oil inside the capsules directly to the skin.

Fish oil capsules

Fish Oil Capsules are omega-3s fatty acids. Fish oil capsules are often used by people to prevent cardiovascular diseases, which are comorbidities for people with psoriasis. These oils can also potentially help with swelling and inflammation of the joints, an issue that 30% of those with psoriasis will experience. Although more research needs to be done, it has been found that fish oil capsules may be beneficial for psoriasis. A small study found that symptoms improved for those with psoriasis when incorporating omega-3s fatty acids in their diets.

Glycerin soap

Help soothe those rough, flaky, patches of dead skin by using glycerin soap. This soap can be used to help moisturize the skin of those with psoriasis. it also helps the skin retain water so it can remain hydrated. Helping your skin to remain moisturized will help decrease itching which will, in turn, lower your chances for infections due to scratching and breaking of skin.

Dermasil

Dermasil is another product which can be applied directly to the skin to help moisturize the body. There was a time this product could only be prescribed and would cost you over $40, but now you can find it at the dollar tree! It's hypo-allergic and can relieve itching.

Epsom Salt

While there are not evidence-based studies that prove that Epsom salts reduce inflammation, it is a commonly suggested as a natural remedy for a variety of issues including psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. It's used to help loosen joints and to relax muscles and can help soothe itching of skin.