Spring Forward: We're Pso Over Winter!

Gray skies, bitter cold, less daylight, and an extra dryness to the air. Winter can be tough for those who live with psoriasis. The result usually calls for an increase in cracking skin and a longer moisturizing routine.

With a new plaque comes new feelings of self-consciousness and frustration. The hope is with a new, warmer season, those who live with psoriasis can let the parched air of winter melt away and allow for the sun and extra moisture in the air to improve their painful symptoms.

Skincare tips for seasonal change

With spring in the air, skincare routines may change. Throughout the year, it can be difficult to stick to and manage a routine. Hopefully, these tips can revitalize your approach and allow you to prioritize yourself and your skin.

• Do an audit of your current skincare routine. Could you benefit from a lighter moisturizer? Could you narrow down a few products to every other day? A change in your routine could improve your mood and your approach to symptom management. Avoid skin products with alcohol and fragrances
• Get some safe sun. UVB rays from the sun may help treat psoriasis symptoms by slowing down skin growth and shedding. When you are out in the sun, you will want to protect your skin. When outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your skin.
• Consider allergies. In addition to painful skin, sneezing and puffy eyes aren't a joy to manage either. If you are prone to allergies, limit your exposure and have your medicine/treatment stocked and ready.
• Drink water! Hydration is key in keeping your skin and body moisturized from the inside out. With any season change, it's a good idea to drink more water than normal to keep yourself hydrated.
• Take the time to relax. The spring season can great for relaxation. Make time each day to do something that relaxes you. This can be anything from working in your garden, taking a swim or a walk, or sitting outdoors and reading.

Regardless of the season, it is important to make sure you stick to the treatment plan your doctor has prescribed for you. This includes using all topical treatments and taking oral medicines to control psoriasis symptoms, boost your immune system, and slow down skin cell growth.

Melting away stigma

All year round, psoriasis can be compared to an iceberg. While outsiders can see this monumental piece of ice, they have no idea of the larger, massive structure supporting it beneath. In relation to psoriasis, friends, loved ones, and even strangers may see raised plaques, itchy skin, and topical treatments.

While those who live with the condition know the painful truth of what's lying underneath: insecurity, doctor and treatment frustrations, intense pain, and sometimes, darkened mental health. With spring comes an opportunity to bring personal growth and hope into your life.

Psoriasis already controls so much of your life. By slowly chipping away at its stigma and grasp, you can begin to take back control. It can be as simple as showing small pieces of your skin with lighter clothing, saying the first word when you notice someone looking at your skin, prioritizing your moisturizing routine, and spending more intentional time outside – alone or with your people.

What do those who live with psoriasis have to say?

Our own patient leaders have shared their experience with managing psoriasis in the spring. Chris breaks down the benefit of a deep spring cleaning, while Gemma shares how she flares in the spring – often paired with step throat! Since warmer weather calls for skirts and shorts, Vicki also provides tips and insight into hair removal.

Interested in what others have to say, we even asked the PlaquePsoriasis.com Facebook page about the incoming warmer weather. We asked, "If you could throw a farewell party for your winter flare, what would you say goodbye to first?" Here are a few responses:

"The severe itching and flaking"
"The psoratic arthritis that came with it."
"Fingertips that crack and bleed!"

Psoriasis is unpredictable, just like the weather. One thing is constant – change – and with the seasons comes change.

What are you most looking forward to about spring?

There is power in connection, and this community is thriving with it. The only thing missing is your voice. We want to know: What does spring mean for you? How does it impact your symptoms? Please click the blue button below and share your experience.

We've survived yet another cold, dark, and grueling winter. You can begin to see the days become longer and the birds chirping in spades. Soon enough, flowers will begin blooming, and the trees will look flush with green.

This spring season, we hope you find joy in the simple pleasures, experience less pain, and find strength in any way you can find it. Spring represents hope, and hope reminds us that the only way out is through.