Diagnosed With Psoriasis? Try These Winter Skin Tips

Dealing with psoriasis is frustrating enough as you have to contend with flaky skin, unbearable itching, and sometimes general soreness. There is enough to handle while trying to manage the condition, but then winter comes along and seemingly worsens these symptoms. The cold air pulls no punches as it beats down on your already fragile skin. You needn’t worry, however. We’ve compiled a list of tips you can use to protect your skin against this bitter winter season.

Tip #1: Moisturize With Ointments

Since there is no true cure for psoriasis, the best thing you can do is treat its symptoms. The easiest way to do this is to keep the affected skin moisturized. We’re not talking about your basic body lotions either. To properly treat psoriasis, you’ll need medicated topical ointments like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, and topical retinoids. These creams will help reduce the inflammation caused by psoriasis, as well as the itchiness and flaking.

Tip #2: Avoid Harsh Soaps

Certain soaps are known to strip more than dirt from your skin. They can also rob your skin of natural oils, leaving your skin dry. Avoid these soaps and instead opt for soaps that have moisturizers in them. A good choice are soaps that contain aloe vera. This will simultaneously clean, moisturize, and heal your skin.

Tip #3: Use a Humidifier While Sleeping

The cold winter air is usually dry and it often creeps into our homes, creating drafts. These drafts may be another culprit in drying your skin. Keep the air moist and use a humidifier. It is especially important at night when you are asleep as you are more prone to scratching the affected areas at this time.

Tip #4: Wear Light Clothes

This may seem like a crazy tip to offer during the winter, but it is necessary. Heavy clothes like wool and denim can irritate the skin and keep it from breathing. So, leave the winter wool sweater in the closet. Pull out the lighter cotton instead. It can still keep you warm and it won’t suffocate your gentle skin.

Tip #5: Light Therapy

Light therapy is more of an overall treatment method and not necessarily specific to winter, but it can ease your symptoms. There are several types of light therapy methods but the main goal is to slow the rapid death of skin cells, thus minimizing the build-up that causes scaling and reduces inflammation.

Tip #6: Bundle Up

Even though you have to wear lighter clothes, it doesn’t mean you are forced to step out into the winter air with a spring jacket. Keep yourself warm using cotton scarves and gloves, soft winter coats, and breathable cottons.

Tip #7: Always Come Prepared

Avoid getting stuck out in the cold with itchy dry skin. Be sure to take your topical ointments with you everywhere you go. Remember, it is important to stay moisturized, so never leave home without your creams.

With these tips, you and your skin are all set and ready to take on the frigid winter air. If you want to learn more or would like to explore treatment options, our experts at The Dermatology Group are ready to help you. If you are in the greater Ohio region, don’t hesitate to give us a call.