Although psoriasis is not life-threatening it can still restrict our day to day activities both physically and mentally so we’re here to provide a few tips to help ease the stress and the itch!

First of all, what is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes flaky patches of skin which form scales (NHS)

We always recommend seeing a doctor / health professional to confirm the diagnosis and provide any necessary treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis but want to avoid steroid treatment, you can also ask your doctor to prescribe steroid-free alternative treatments.

Here are some tips to help manage psoriasis day to day in addition to your doctors advice / treatment:

1. To scratch or not to scratch

Scratching is so tempting when the patches get really itchy but our conscious selves can practise self restraint, however in our sleep we may scratch without even knowing it. Scratching breaks the barriers your skin is working to rebuild to heal the psoriasis and also gives opportunity for infections by any open wounds created (any scratching that makes you bleed).

An easy way to prevent this is to wear cotton gloves at night, if you have psoriasis on your hands you can even put the treatment on under the gloves, these can purchased from most pharmacies or online, however a good (free) dupe is to use a pair of socks and wear them on your hands as mittens, so even if you do scratch at night the fabric with prevent you from harming the skin barrier.

2. Stay hydrated, inside and out

Psoriasis patches can become dry and flakey, this can be prevented by applying a non-scented, psoriasis-safe moisturiser. It is also important to stay hydrated from the inside, drinking at least 2 litres a day - which also has many more health benefits.

3. Avoid triggering foods

Certain foods can flare up psoriasis, it differs per person but common ones include: gluten, red meat, processed foods, alcohol and caffeine.

Don’t worry, they don’t need to be removed from your diet completely but it may help to reduce consuming certain foods here and there and see if it helps the inflammation.

4. Sun exposure

Being in the sun can also help to naturally heal psoriasis just remember to wear suncream!

5. Lotions and Potions

Apart from the creams and ointments you put on to help the patches it's also important to be mindful of what else is touching your skin that could cause it to flare, for example dish soap or shampoo. Simple steps like wearing dish washing gloves or using gentle body wash and shampoo can also make huge differences when it comes to skin irritation. There are many psoriasis-safe options and ones for sensitive skin, using soaps approved for babies is also a good option since they are usually more gentle.

6. Look after your mental health

Having psoriasis can take a toll on your mental health, the itching is frustrating and sometimes we may get insecure about how it looks. However its a natural skin condition and there is no need to be embarrassed by the pretty patterns on your skin. Practising look after your mental and self confidence can improve the way you view your condition and overall impact your day to day life. We have a Quick Guide to Meditation to help you get started in practicing self care and self compassion, maybe make it the focus of your next meditation?

If animals can have pretty spots then so can we!!