How to Treat Psoriasis: 10 Home Remedies You Can Try Today

Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, manifests through patches of dry, thick, and scaly skin across the body, often leading individuals to seek ways on how to treat psoriasis. It is primarily driven by an overactive immune system, which accelerates the replication of skin cells. This can result in symptoms such as red patches, dry cracked skin, pitted nails, and in some cases, joint pain or swelling. Moreover, psoriasis can present itself in various forms, including plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, and scalp psoriasis, each adding a level of complexity to its management.

While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, a wide range of home remedies have shown promise in managing its symptoms effectively. Strategies include moisturizing treatments, dietary adjustments supplemented with capsaicin, the use of natural topicals and ointments, controlled sunlight exposure, UV phototherapy, and stress management techniques. These approaches offer hope and relief to those looking to alleviate the discomfort caused by psoriasis, making it crucial to explore the most effective ways to manage this persistent skin condition.

Moisturizing Treatments

Moisturizing treatments play a pivotal role in managing psoriasis symptoms, offering relief, and improving skin health. Here’s how to incorporate them into your daily routine effectively:

• Immediate Post-Bath Care:
  • Action: After bathing, gently pat your skin mostly dry with a towel.
  • Application: Apply a fragrance-free cream, thick ointment, or petroleum jelly within 5 minutes to lock in moisture.
  • Purpose: This helps to seal in moisture, reducing dryness and itchiness.
• Daily Moisturizers and Specialized Creams:
  • Heavy Creams or Petroleum Jelly: Ideal for locking water into the skin, significantly reducing redness and itchiness.
  • Aloe Vera: Either direct application or as a cream containing 0.5% aloe can relieve symptoms.
  • Specialized Products: Consider using products like CeraVe Psoriasis Cream, MG217® Sal-Acid Multi-Symptom Moisturizing Cream, or TriDerma CBD Psoriasis Control Cream for targeted relief. These products are designed to treat psoriatic skin symptoms while moisturizing and repairing the skin barrier.
• Humidifiers and Bath Additives:
  • Using a Humidifier: Especially beneficial in dry climates or environments with air-conditioning to keep skin hydrated.
  • Warm Baths: Can hydrate and soothe the skin but avoid hot baths or prolonged soaking.
  • Additives for Baths: Dead Sea Salt Baths and colloidal oatmeal can provide relief from itching and reduce inflammation.

Incorporating these moisturizing treatments into your daily routine can significantly alleviate the discomfort associated with psoriasis. Remember to choose products carefully, focusing on those with hydrating and soothing properties, and to apply them consistently for the best results.

Dietary Adjustments and Supplements

Dietary adjustments and supplements can play a significant role in managing psoriasis symptoms by targeting inflammation and supporting overall skin health. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Inflammation Reduction:
  • Fish Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it may help lessen inflammation. Consider incorporating fatty fish into your diet or taking fish oil supplements.
  • Colorful Fruits and Vegetables: These are not only nutritious but can also help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, which is beneficial for those with psoriasis.
  • Limit Inflammatory Foods: Reduce intake of alcohol, dairy, gluten, sugar, refined carbohydrates, and foods high in saturated and trans fats to decrease inflammation.
• Gluten-Free Diet:
  • While the evidence is mixed, some individuals with psoriasis report improvements after eliminating gluten. It’s particularly worth trying for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
  • Note: Opting for a gluten-free diet requires careful attention to food labels, as some gluten-free products may contain added sugar, saturated fats, and preservatives.
• Supplements and Healthy Eating Habits:
  • Vitamin D Supplements: May slow the growth of skin cells and reduce the severity of psoriasis lesions.
  • Probiotics: Can improve gut health, potentially positively affecting psoriasis.
  • Turmeric (Curcumin): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it can aid in managing symptoms.
  • Balanced Diet: Emphasize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean or plant-based proteins, legumes, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial as excess weight can exacerbate symptoms.

Incorporating these dietary changes and supplements into your daily routine can help manage psoriasis more effectively. Remember, while diet can influence psoriasis, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes or starting new supplements.

Natural Topicals and Baths

For individuals exploring how to treat psoriasis, incorporating natural topicals and baths into their routine can offer significant relief. Here are some effective remedies to consider:

• Natural Topicals:
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Applying it to the scalp helps reduce itchiness. Ensure it’s rinsed off once dry and avoid use on bleeding or cracked skin.
  • Capsaicin Creams: These can diminish pain, inflammation, and redness but may initially cause a burning sensation.
  • Turmeric: Topical application of turmeric has shown promising results in improving scaly lesions.
  • Oregon Grape Creams: Known for their antimicrobial properties, they significantly reduce redness and inflammation.
  • Tea Tree Oil: While it can remove dry, dead cells, it’s crucial to test for allergic reactions before widespread use.
  • Oils: Coconut and olive oil can trap moisture in the skin, reducing dryness. Coconut oil is especially beneficial for its moisture-locking properties.
• Baths for Soothing Psoriasis:
  • Salts Bath: Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea or Epsom salts for about 15 minutes can aid in shedding scales and soothing the skin. It’s important to moisturize afterward.
  • Oatmeal Bath: A bath with ground-up oats naturally soothes the skin.
  • Baking Soda Bath: Offers relief for some, though lacking scientific backing. Use with caution if the skin is cracked or bleeding.
  • Bath Oils: Adding oils can reduce itchiness, but caution is advised as they can make the tub slippery.
• Bathing Recommendations and Precautions:
  • What Not to Put in Your Bath: Avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and bubble baths. Be cautious with apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil due to potential irritation.
  • General Bathing Tips: Apply prescribed medicine a couple of hours before bathing, limit baths or showers to once a day for no more than 15 minutes, use warm water, and gently wash without scrubbing off scales.

Integrating these natural remedies and bathing practices into your daily routine can significantly ease psoriasis symptoms. Remember, while these treatments can offer relief, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor a regimen that’s safe and effective for your specific condition.

Sunlight Exposure and UV Therapy

Phototherapy, a widely recognized method for treating psoriasis, involves the exposure of skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. This treatment can be categorized primarily into UVB phototherapy and PUVA therapy, each having distinct mechanisms and applications:

• UVB Phototherapy:
  • Mechanism: Slows the growth of affected skin cells.
  • Types: Includes broad-band and narrow-band UVB, with narrow-band UVB clearing psoriasis faster and producing longer remissions.
  • Administration: Through localized units for specific areas, full-body units for widespread psoriasis, or hand-held units for home use.
  • Frequency: Narrow-band UVB typically requires fewer treatments per week.
  • Home Treatment: Requires a consistent schedule and regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.
• PUVA Therapy:
  • Mechanism: Combines UVA light with a light-sensitizing agent called psoralen to slow down excessive skin cell growth.
  • Effective For: Stable plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, and psoriasis of the palms and soles.
  • Administration: Psoralen can be applied topically, mixed in with bathwater, or ingested orally before UVA exposure.
  • Adjuvant Therapy: A network meta-analysis highlighted the superior effect and safety of combined adjuvant therapy with PUVA (cPUVA), especially when combined with calcium/vitamin D derivatives.

Sunlight exposure, a natural source of UVB light, has also been found beneficial for many individuals with psoriasis. However, it requires careful management to avoid potential risks:

• Guidelines for Safe Sunlight Exposure:
  • Gradual Exposure: To prevent sunburn and potential Koebnerisation, a phenomenon where psoriasis can form at the site of skin injury.
  • Protection: Use sunscreen, avoid peak sun times (10 am to 4 pm), and wear protective clothing to minimize risks.
  • Considerations: Special care should be taken for babies, children, and aging skin, as they are more susceptible to sun damage.
  • Risks: While beneficial, excessive lifetime exposure to sunlight can increase the risks of skin cancers.

In summary, both phototherapy and controlled sunlight exposure offer effective ways to manage psoriasis symptoms. It’s essential to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance to tailor a treatment plan that ensures efficacy while minimizing potential risks.

Stress Management Techniques

Managing stress is a pivotal element in the treatment and management of psoriasis, given the strong link between stress and flare-ups. Here are some effective strategies to incorporate into daily life:

• Mind and Body Practices:
  • Meditation and Mindfulness: Dedicate time each day to practice meditation or mindfulness. These techniques help in focusing the mind and reducing stress, which can lead to fewer psoriasis flare-ups.
  • Yoga and Tai Chi: Engage in yoga or tai chi regularly. These activities not only help in stress reduction but also improve the range of motion, which is beneficial for those with psoriatic arthritis.
  • Hypnotherapy: Explore hypnotherapy sessions to manage stress effectively. It can offer a way to control stress and anxiety that triggers psoriasis.
• Lifestyle Adjustments:
  • Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activities like walking, stretching, or Pilates into your routine. Exercise is a natural stress reliever and can improve the symptoms of psoriasis.
  • Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. A healthy diet supports overall well-being and can reduce the severity of skin lesions.
  • Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid personal triggers that worsen psoriasis symptoms, including certain foods, alcohol, and smoking.
  • Sleep and Relaxation: Adjust sleeping patterns to ensure adequate rest. Consider regular warm baths and massages to relax the body and mind.
• Support and Professional Help:
  • Support Groups: Connect with support groups like the National Psoriasis Foundation’s One-to-One program for peer support. Sharing experiences and strategies can provide emotional relief and valuable tips.
  • Counseling: Consider seeking help from a mental health therapist if feelings of anxiety or depression arise. Professional counseling can offer strategies to manage stress more effectively.
  • Consult Healthcare Professionals: Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting new treatments or exercise routines. They can provide personalized advice and support tailored to individual needs.

Incorporating these strategies into daily life can not only help manage stress but also contribute to the overall treatment plan for psoriasis. By addressing stress, individuals can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups, improving their quality of life.

Conclusion

Through exploring a variety of home remedies, including moisturizing treatments, dietary adjustments, natural topicals, controlled sunlight exposure, and stress management techniques, we shed light on the multifaceted approach necessary for managing psoriasis. Each method, carefully tailored to alleviate specific symptoms or target underlying triggers, underscores the importance of a personalized regimen in battling this chronic skin condition. The crux of managing psoriasis lies not only in the effectiveness of these interventions but also in their consistent application and integration into daily life, reinforcing the principle that comprehensive care extends beyond topical treatments.

Given the persistent nature of psoriasis and its varying impact on individuals, the significance of these findings cannot be overstated. They not only offer avenues for relief and improvement in quality of life but also underscore the importance of further exploration and research in this field. While the journey to manage psoriasis is deeply personal, the collective insights from these remedies provide a beacon of hope and a roadmap for those navigating this challenging condition. As we conclude, let this article serve as a starting point for individuals and healthcare providers alike to delve deeper into understanding and managing psoriasis, with an emphasis on holistic well-being.