5 Ways to Help Soothe Psoriasis-Prone Skin

The discomfort and visibility of psoriasis symptoms can make it difficult to cope with the condition. At Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics, board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, understands how psoriasis can impact your quality of life and your self-confidence. Dr. Bushore is an expert in treating this type of chronic skin condition, and he can provide a variety of resources to improve your skin’s overall condition and long-term health.

The impact of psoriasis on your skin

Psoriasis is the result of an autoimmune disorder that causes a rapid turnover of your skin cells. The excess cells cause scaly, dry patches to form on your skin. Flare-ups of psoriasis can be triggered by injuries and infections in your skin as well as from environmental factors, such as:

• Stress
• Smoking
• Weather changes
• Certain medications
• Heavy use of alcohol

As the scaly patches of skin form, they can begin to crack and bleed. The skin patches may also cause itching or burning. These issues can range from mild to severe enough to interfere with your daily life.

5 options to soothe psoriasis symptoms

Psoriasis patches can develop nearly anywhere on your skin. To soothe your skin during a flare-up, board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, can work with you on a psoriasis treatment plan that includes topical corticosteroids, retinoids, and other medications that can address scaly patches on your:

• Legs
• Face
• Scalp
• Knees
• Elbows
• Lower back
• Soles of your feet

In addition to medical treatment for psoriasis, you can use the following tips to keep your skin soothed and hydrated:

1. Reduce your time in the shower

While good hygiene is necessary to prevent infection and other complications, try to limit your time in the shower to five minutes. If you prefer a bath, don’t soak for longer than 15 minutes.

Extended bathing time can dry out your skin and make the itching worse. And always use lukewarm water instead of hot water, which can further dry out your skin.

2. Follow up with a high-quality moisturizer

Every time you wash your skin, apply a high-quality lotion to lock in the moisture. The lotion will not only soothe your skin, but it will help eliminate or reduce itching. CeraVE SA cream is one of  Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics favorites. 

3. Fight the urge to itch

When your skin is feeling itchy and you want to scratch it, apply lotion instead. You can also use a topical, anti-itch ointment that moisturizes your skin and stops the itch. Choose an ointment that contains camphor or menthol, both of which are effective at relieving itching.

4. Try a cold compress

Cold compresses, such as an ice pack, can reduce sensitivity in your nerves and help control itching. The cold can quickly soothe itchy, sore skin because the signals your nerves send to your brain aren’t as strong when they’re cold. However, avoid wet rags, as it can increase evaporation and aggravate dry skin.

5. Remove scales properly 

Removing excess, scaly skin can effectively relieve the discomfort of your psoriasis symptoms, but it has to be done the right way. Never pull off scales. This can worsen your psoriasis flare-up and lead to permanent skin damage. Instead, you can apply a salicylic acid topical to soften the scales. Once soft, the scales should come off with a gentle cleaning.