Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply and grow faster than normal, leading to dry, scaly patches forming. While genetics can increase the risk of developing psoriasis, it is not the sole cause. Additional factors such as immune system dysfunction, and triggers like stress, infections, certain medications, weather exposure, nicotine, and alcohol may contribute to the development, worsening and/ flare-ups of psoriasis scales.
According to a review published in the Medical Journal of Australia, between 2.3% and 6.6% of Australians have psoriasis.
Psoriasis in non-contagious and unfortunately has no known cure. People who suffer from psoriasis must learn their triggers and form the best treatment plan to manage their symptoms.
Here are ways to help living with psoriasis more comfortably.
Psoriasis Dos
- Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. Keeping your skin well-hydrated by using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser will help alleviate dryness and itching associated with psoriasis.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Adopt a balanced diet, regular exercise, and manage stress to support overall well-being, as these factors can influence psoriasis symptoms.
- Practice gentle skincare. Gently cleanse your skin with mild, non-irritating cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing or irritating products that may worsen psoriasis.
- Protect your skin. Shield your skin from extreme temperatures, sun exposure, and harsh chemicals, as these factors can trigger or exacerbate psoriasis flare-ups.
Skincare Ingredients that help manage Psoriasis
Several skincare ingredients have shown promise in helping to manage psoriasis symptoms.
These include the following;
- Urea is a keratolytic agent that can help soften and remove psoriasis scales. It also has moisturising properties that can help hydrate dry, flaky skin.
- Ceramides are lipid molecules that help form the skin's barrier and retain moisture. Skincare products containing ceramides can help enhance the skin barrier function, which is often compromised in psoriasis.
- Colloidal oatmeal has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve itching and irritation associated with psoriasis.
- Aloe vera has soothing and moisturising properties that can help alleviate the discomfort associated with psoriasis. It may help reduce redness and scaling.
*Important note: Individual responses to skincare ingredients can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. Always patch test any new skincare products before fully incorporating them into your regime. Discontinue use if any irritation or adverse reactions occur.
Psoriasis Don’ts
- Avoid harsh soaps, fragrances, and products containing alcohol that may irritate the skin and trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
- Refrain from scratching or picking at psoriasis plaques, as this can lead to skin damage, infection, and increased inflammation.
- Alcohol and smoking can worsen psoriasis symptoms, so it is advisable to minimise or avoid these triggers.
- Elevated levels of stress can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, so practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, walking, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Tight clothing can rub against psoriasis patches and aggravate the skin, so opt for loose, breathable fabrics to minimize irritation.
Skincare Ingredients to avoid if you suffer from Psoriasis
When selecting skincare products to help with psoriasis symptoms, it is important to be mindful of certain ingredients that could potentially exacerbate or cause further irritation.
These include:
- Fragrances can be irritating to sensitive skin and may trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Look for fragrance-free or unscented products to minimise the risk of irritation.
- Products containing a high concentration of alcohol can be drying and potentially aggravate sensitive skin associated with psoriasis.
- Avoid products with rough, grainy, or abrasive exfoliating particles, as they can further irritate and inflame psoriatic skin.
- Synthetic dyes, colorants and parabens in skincare products can heighten skin sensitivity and potentially cause further irritation.
- Sulphates, such as sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate, are commonly found in cleansers and can be harsh on sensitive skin.
- Chemical Sunscreens containing oxybenzone or avobenzone can be irritating for individuals suffering from psoriasis. Consider using physical sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
By incorporating these dos and don'ts into your daily routine, you can help manage psoriasis symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve the overall health of your skin.
It is important to remember that individual sensitivities can vary, and what may trigger symptoms in one person may not affect another.
Psoriasis and Mental Health
When you suffer from a chronic skin condition like psoriasis it can have a significant effect on your emotional and mental wellbeing. It is essential to address and acknowledge this impact and prioritize your mental health alongside physical wellness. Seeking support from healthcare providers, counsellors and support groups can be beneficial in managing the various challenges associated with psoriasis, including:
- Depression, Stress and Anxiety. The emotional toll of living with a visible, (and often stigmatised) skin condition, can contribute to feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Coping with the physical symptoms of psoriasis, such as itching and visible skin lesions, as well as the unpredictable nature of flare-ups can be stressful and may contribute to elevated anxiety.
- Social Isolation. Psoriasis lesions can lead to self-consciousness and social withdrawal. Avoiding social situations due to the fear of judgment or embarrassment can impact your relationships.
- Negative Body Image. Psoriasis can negatively affect your body image and self-esteem, leading to feelings of insecurity and self-perception.
- Impact on Daily Life. Managing the physical symptoms of psoriasis, including, itching, discomfort, and pain can be exhausting and impact daily activities, work, and relationships. This disruption to daily life can contribute to feelings of frustration and overwhelm.
AMPERNA®'s ethos is to break the stigma around talking about the effects skin conditions can have over your mental well-being.
It is more than skin deep, and we encourage our community to open up and talk about their insecurities to friends and family.
We collaborate with influencers that are going through their own skin healing journey whilst simultaneously building on their mental health.
We recently did a photoshoot with model and influencer Bree Pease @psoriasis_beauty who suffers from psoriasis.
She shared her top 3 tips for boosting her self-esteem and confidence, which includes:
- Daily self-affirmations
- Purposely exposing her skin in public (without worrying)
- Joining a skin positivity community
You can watch her video here:
Kiri, (AMPERNA® founder and owner) also did a thorough Instagram live with Bree going through her skin healing journey, mental health, holistic management for psoriasis, her travel diaries as someone who sufferers from a chronic skin condition, to modelling, diet and overall skin health.
You can watch Kiri and Brees live here:
