Psoriasis and Vacation: How Best to Prepare

Going on holiday with psoriasis can throw up many unknowns. To start, you need to consider whether going on a vacation is actually the best thing for you and your psoriasis at this stage.

It’s perfectly viable to say that it isn’t right now, and that because of the severity of the condition or the medication you are on, that it might be best to put it off until the time is better. However, it may be the case that getting away could be the best thing for your psoriasis, so you need to consider both the positives and negatives of the situation.

1. Consider where you’re going to go

If you’re going away to help with your psoriasis, consider where is best to do that. A hot climate with year-round sunshine may be best because of the UV rays. UV rays are known to help clear psoriasis.

However, if you’ve thought about a hot climate and don’t like the sound of it, or simply want to go somewhere else, then consider the hotel facilities, the availability of medical supplies should you need them, and how accessible the place is to public transport and amenities.

If your condition is particularly severe, then it’s probably not a good idea to go somewhere remote or isolated just now because you may find it gets worse over the course of your travels and you may not be able to access any help for it.

2. Consider how long you’re going to go for

There are many factors that will go into this. Perhaps you have a few holiday days left in your job, or you just want to get away somewhere. Whatever it is, consider the right timeframe for you and how long you want to be away from access to your local help should you need it.

I know for me, the medication I am on stipulates I must take it around the 12th of every month, so I make sure I am not away on that date. Or, if I have to, I will take the medication with me, and seek advice from my doctor.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to cut your holiday short if you need to. Sometimes, the place doesn’t fit with how you originally saw it, or your skin may become particularly problematic. In any case, consider what’s best for you and your skin and try and come up with some sort of decision that is going to help both of those things.

There’s no point being away if you’re unhappy and would rather be at home!

3. Consider going with someone

It’s always good to have some sort of support, particularly when you’re suffering from a chronic illness. So, consider a family member, friend or partner going with you. If anything happens, or your skin becomes particularly problematic while you’re away, they can advise and help you.

4. Consider whether to take anything with you

If you have particularly severe psoriasis, consider what might make you feel more comfortable while you’re away.

Obviously, any medications, creams and ointments should be taken with to make your travels as comfortable as possible.

But consider anything else too. I once thought about taking a dustpan and brush with me so I could sweep up any falling bits of skin should I need to. The shedding of skin embarrassed me, so I thought it was a good idea. Equally, you may find ice packs good to help soothe your skin. Have a think and do what’s best for you.

5. Have an itinerary

Figure out what you want to do on your break and come up with some sort of itinerary. Try and use a few days to relax – either by the beach, poolside or by checking out the local restaurants and amenities.

Psoriasis is a painful and difficult condition, and any time you can use to help soothe the effects of it should be put to good use. Equally, enjoy your time, so don’t let your condition hold you back if you feel it is.

However, you plan to spend your time away, I hope you find it satisfiable, enjoyable and come back with a smile. Going away should be a time for you to leave the stresses and strains of life back home there so you can enjoy time for yourself.