Psoriasis Tips and Tricks

Having psoriasis for so many years, I am guilty of getting stuck in a rut. I fall back on old habits and routines. At the beginning of a flare, it is easy for me to tell that it is coming, so I get prepared and make sure I have everything I need. I do find that my body or my psoriasis (whoever is actually in charge here) gets resistant to the treatment after a few years and it is important to switch up.

These are some of the new things that I have tried that I find are helpful on a day-to-day basis and I was reminded of how small changes can have a big impact.

Taking a bath instead of shower

I find that my skin hydrates better when I take baths and it is in general more soothing to inflamed skin. Adding things like oats, Epsom salts, and bicarb at different times, and soaking in the water for at least 20 minutes, makes a big difference for me too.

The water should never be pipping hot. This has been an adjustment, as I absolutely love a steamy hot bath, the kind that leaves your skin bright red. This adjustment has made such a difference by turning it down to a few notches and only getting in when the warm is on the high end of warm. That way the water does not get cold while I am in it, as I can think of nothing worse in a bath.

Covering my skin at night

This is something that is very unusual for me to get used to, it has however made a big difference, especially in the winter, when my skin is really bad. I usually only do the big or most painful patches, as shy of getting into an entire silicone suit, this is the only way. I also need to watch my body temperature.

I apply the ointment and wrap it up for the night with something, some people use saran wrap, but I find it gets sweaty. So I put a piece of saran wrap over the biggest affected area and put a breathable bandage around it for the night. The next morning, I have a quick shower or bath or make sure that all dead skin cells have lifted and moved along. I apply a fresh coat of moisturizer and get on with the day.

I also choose loose pajamas that are cool and flow. I make sure that the seams are on the outside, to not irritate my psoriasis.

Keep your skin cool

Staying cool is imperative for me, and yes this means in winter too, even if it sounds counterproductive. Luckily for me, I love the winter and the cold weather. My skin cannot get hot, the moment I feel that I am overheating, my skin starts swelling and itching.

In the summer my psoriasis can tolerate the sun but for short bursts. As long as my skin is not covered and sweating I still have a chance of getting away with it. However, in winter I often wear a body warmer instead of something with full sleeves, that way my core stays warm and I don't freeze. I take my shoes off as often as possible as if my feet are hot, my whole body will overheat and this sends my psoriasis into overdrive.

Does your psoriasis respond better to showers or baths, and do you find that the heat affects your psoriasis at all?