Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to appear. While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are ways to manage and control its symptoms.

One of the challenges that individuals with psoriasis face is dealing with flare-ups during the colder winter months. The combination of low humidity, cold temperatures, and dry indoor air can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms. However, by following these tips, you can keep psoriasis under control and minimize flare-ups during the winter season.

Moisturize Regularly

One of the most important steps in managing psoriasis during winter is to keep your skin moisturized. Cold weather and low humidity can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flakiness.

Regularly applying moisturizers helps seal in moisture and prevent dryness, reducing the risk of psoriasis flare-ups. Opt for thick, emollient-rich moisturizers, such as creams and ointments, that provide long-lasting hydration.

Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating systems can further dehydrate the air in your home, exacerbating dry skin and triggering psoriasis symptoms.

Adding moisture back into the air with a humidifier can help maintain a more comfortable humidity level and prevent your skin from drying out. Place humidifiers in the rooms you spend the most time in, like your bedroom and living room, and ensure they are properly cleaned and maintained to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

Avoid Hot Showers/Baths

While a hot shower or bath may be tempting during the winter, hot water can actually worsen psoriasis symptoms. It can strip away the skin’s natural oils and further dry out your skin.

Instead, opt for warm water and limit your shower or bath time to no more than 10-15 minutes. After bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a towel and immediately apply moisturizer to lock in moisture.

Protect Your Skin

Winter weather can be particularly harsh on the skin, especially for individuals with psoriasis. Protecting your skin and preventing further irritation is crucial.

Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid wool or synthetic materials that can cause friction and trigger flare-ups. Additionally, don’t forget to bundle up and wear gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from cold winds and extreme temperatures.

Avoid Dry Indoor Air

Central heating systems and space heaters can contribute to dry indoor air, which can aggravate psoriasis symptoms. Adding moisture back into the air with a humidifier is one way to mitigate this issue.

However, it is also important to avoid additional sources of dryness. Avoid sitting directly in front of heaters, as the hot air can dehydrate your skin. Use a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom for added moisture while you sleep.

Manage Stress Levels

Stress is known to trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups. During the winter months, managing stress becomes even more crucial. The holiday season can be demanding and overwhelming, so make sure to prioritize self-care and take time for relaxation.

Engage in activities that help you relax and reduce stress levels, such as yoga, meditation, or hobbies. Additionally, getting regular exercise can also help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

Ensure a Healthy Diet

While diet alone cannot cure psoriasis, it can play a role in managing symptoms. Following a healthy, well-balanced diet can support your overall health and potentially improve psoriasis symptoms.

Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, and chia seeds, as they have anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid trigger foods that may exacerbate symptoms, such as alcohol, processed foods, and refined sugars.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water is important for maintaining overall skin health. Keeping your body hydrated helps prevent dryness and promotes skin elasticity. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Additionally, consuming hydrating foods, such as fruits and vegetables with high water content, is also beneficial for your skin.

Seek Natural Sunlight

Though the winter months may be cold, it is still important to expose your skin to natural sunlight. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which can help improve psoriasis symptoms.

Briefly spending time outdoors during the day, when the sun is at its peak, can be beneficial. However, it is essential to protect your skin with sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing to avoid sunburn and the risk of skin damage.

Consult Your Dermatologist

If you experience severe or persistent psoriasis symptoms during winter, it is important to consult your dermatologist. They can provide personalized guidance and suggest appropriate treatment options to manage your psoriasis effectively.

Your dermatologist may recommend topical creams, phototherapy, or other medications to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups.