The Animosity Between Psoriasis and Winter

Living with psoriasis during the winter months is a special kind of brutal. While psoriasis itself can feel like a curse, I can't help but think we're doubly cursed when the temperature drops and the bitter cold set in.

Winter has always been harsh on me and from what I've noticed, almost all of us with psoriasis. Managing during the frosty season does not make us any less strong. While our own body fights against us, we fight back.

Tips for managing psoriasis during the colder months

As soon as Jack Frost nips at our noses, our skin begins to react. Personally, my skin gets itchier and drier much quicker. Yes, this reaction happens to most people during the winter, but for those with psoriasis, it could leave to an intense flare.

With the winter bells ringing, get ready to take extra care of yourself. But how? I follow a five-step routine to keep my skin psoriasis flare-free during the winter season.

Wake up, moisturize, eat, moisturize, sleep and repeat.

This is my daily routine. I hold a 2-hour moisturizing rule which means I moisturize my body every two-hour interval. This helps to keep my skin hydrated and avoids itchiness, dry scars, and psoriasis flares. I know this sounds like overkill, but it works wonders. I also work from home, so I have the time to do this.

Drink as much water as you can.

This will help you stay hydrated. During the winter season, it is difficult to retain moisture in your skin. So, make the effort to maintain your water intake throughout the day. I was not a water drinker. It really took me a while to adjust to this. I started out slow, drinking 2 bottles of water a day. I have graduated to 4 bottles a day right now.

Avoid hot showers and baths.

While it might make sense to beat the cold, this is a big no for those with psoriasis! Hot water showers can suck the moisture out of our skin leaving us in the misery of scars and itchy skin. It is important to avoid hot water showers and keep them limited to 5-10 minutes at a minimum.

Find new ways to get warm.

Feeling the cold weather chills and want to warm up the body? I open my wardrobe and may rush to get a wool sweater. But living with psoriasis? No way. This type of fabric could really irritate and trigger my skin. I usually wear cotton or silk fabrics underneath the heavier stuff.

Utilize tools to help!

Another step that I take to increase moisture on my skin is I use a humidifier. In fact, I have placed humidifiers in several rooms of my home. I started with one in the bedroom and office to keep my skin moist. A moist environment can do wonders. Also, do not forget to go out and soak some sun during winters if some come out.

Take care of yourself this winter

So, this is my routine to fight psoriasis in winters. I have shared these tips to help my fellow psurvivors in battling against this dreaded condition during the colder months.

I encourage you to try each technique for about a week and you will find the right one that works for your body. Keep psurviving and remember we are all in this together.