5 Ways to Ease a Psoriasis Flare-up

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects over eight million people in the United States. It causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy skin cells, resulting in itchy, scaly, and sometimes painful patches of skin.

If you’re struggling with psoriasis, see Ruben Moreno, MD, and the Florida Dermatology Associates team. We offer effective treatment strategies to improve the skin’s appearance, structure, and function.

While identifying and avoiding triggers is an essential part of managing psoriasis, it’s not always possible to prevent every flare-up. Here are five simple ways you can ease a psoriasis flare-up at home.

1. Moisturize regularly

Consistent hydration is one of the most effective ways to calm your skin during a flare-up. To lock in moisture and soothe discomfort, apply a thick, fragrance-free cream or ointment to the affected areas immediately after bathing or showering and regularly throughout the day.

For additional relief, over-the-counter medicated products can be helpful. A topical corticosteroid cream can reduce the redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis. However, it’s always best to consult with our team before introducing new products, especially when symptoms are active.

2. Try a calming soak

When your skin is flaring, skip the hot shower and consider a soothing bath instead. Be sure to keep the water lukewarm, as high temperatures can worsen dryness and itching.

Adding colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts to the water can help loosen scales and pacify irritated skin. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry to avoid friction, and remember to apply a generous amount of moisturizer to seal in hydration.

3. Manage your stress levels

For many people with psoriasis, stress is a primary trigger. The physical changes stress causes can set off your immune system, leading to new or worsening symptoms.

If you’re feeling stressed during a flare-up, taking the time to calm your mind can actually help your skin heal. Simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or quiet meditation, lower your body’s stress response and support the healing process.

4. Watch your diet

What you eat can play a role in how your skin feels during a flare-up. Research suggests that limiting certain foods may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. These include:

• Processed foods and refined sugars
• Foods high in saturated or trans fats
• Red meat and dairy products
• Vegetables from the nightshade family, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant
• Caffeine
• Alcohol

Focus your diet on whole foods, which provide essential nutrients to support skin health. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, dark leafy greens, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables, can help you heal from the inside out.

5. Be gentle with your skin

Psoriasis flare-ups make skin more vulnerable to physical irritation. To avoid exacerbating symptoms, choose loose-fitting clothing made from soft, natural fabrics like cotton and resist the urge to scratch any itchy areas.

What you wash with also matters. Choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers and laundry detergents, as strong chemicals can further damage the skin’s moisture barrier and prolong your discomfort.

At-home care is a great way to manage flares when they happen, but professional guidance is essential to gain long-term control over your psoriasis. Contact Florida Dermatology Associates in Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Rockledge, and Titusville, Florida to schedule an appointment with our experts today.