Psoriasis
Admittedly, psoriasis is not easy to make peace with, especially among sufferers of the common skin condition. The outbreaks are characterized by thick, silvery scales coupled with itchy, red and dry patches. They are most definitely unwelcoming among men and women, especially not among children and teenagers.
Fortunately, you have many options in the successful management of psoriasis aside from the oral and topical drugs recommended by doctors. In fact, these lifestyle habits are a must in reinforcing the efficacy of the doctor-recommended medications. Additionally, the medication will help reduce the frequency, severity and duration of your flare-ups.
Take Daily Baths
You can ease itchy spots on your skin with warm baths using a mild cleanser or soap; ask your dermatologist about the best brands for better results. Warm daily baths will also make it less painful as well as easier to gently scrape off dry skin.
Tip #1: The emphasis is on warm water and mild cleansers or soaps; hot and cold water as well as harsh soaps will only add stress on an already stressed skin.
Tip #2: Add Epsom salts, colloidal oatmeal, oil into the warm water. Soak in the mixture for 15 minutes, max, and then gently pat your skin. Apply moisturizer.
Tip #3: Find quick relief from itchy, scaly and dry patches by placing a warm, wet towel on the affected area.
Moisturize, Moisturize, and Moisturize
Moisturizing is one of the simplest methods in psoriasis management, and also one of the most overlooked in favor of topical creams and gels. When you are suffering from a psoriasis, your skin must be moisturized at all times to reduce its symptoms especially dryness, redness, soreness, itching and scaling.
Plus, the liberal application of moisturizers on your skin can help in healing it after a flare-up. For those who are suffering from psoriasis, you want to enjoy smooth and supple skin despite the health condition.
Tip #4: Choose moisturizers based on your skin type, such as ointments for dry skin and lotions for normal skin. Even petroleum jelly will suffice.
Seek Relief with the Sun
However, too much sun can be harmful because you have psoriasis, but also because the risk for skin cancer increases with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. Instead, catch your sunlight during the early morning hours (6-7 AM), which will soothe your itchy sensations, improve on your skin appearance, and even heal your lesions.
Tip #5: Use indoor light for light therapy when sunlight is unavailable, such as during the autumn and winter seasons.
Tip #6: Limit your sun exposure to 2-3 times a week for best results. Apply sunscreen on the areas unaffected by psoriasis.
The most important thing is to discuss the pros and cons of light therapy with your dermatologist. Not everyone can benefit from it.
Other ways that you can make peace with your psoriasis include adopting effective stress management methods, eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, getting plenty of exercise, quitting smoking and drinking, and avoiding scratching even when it is tempting to do so. You may have to exercise determination to adopt all of these methods, but it is well worth it.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles county, Orange county, San Bernardino county and Riverside county). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Long Beach, which is conveniently located near Signal Hill, Carson, Seal Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Hawaiian Gardens, and Los Alamitos. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit www.healthpointe.net.