How to Prevent Psoriasis Flare-Ups
A dermatologist can help you manage your psoriasis. In general, there are several things you can do to limit flare-ups:
- Don’t scratch, which can open up the skin and leave it vulnerable to infection, as well as create new plaques. To minimize itchiness:
- Keep the skin cool
- Apply lotion and emollient – use lotion in the morning and a heavy moisturizing cream or emollient before bedtime
- Bathe in warm, not hot, water and always moisturize afterward
- Pat your skin dry after bathing – don’t rub it
- Wear only cotton clothing
- Soak in a warm oatmeal bath
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Being overweight, smoking or drinking alcohol, all increase psoriasis flare-ups. Exercise and watch what you eat.
- Limit triggers – Keep track of what causes your psoriasis to flare up, and limit them.
In addition to causing itchy, cracked and painful skin, psoriasis – especially severe psoriasis – is linked with a number of serious medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease, depression and cancer.
Next: Treating Psoriasis
