Psoriasis

Signs of Psoriasis

• Flaky patches
• Dry skin
• Red, inflamed skin under the flakes
• Dry dandruff
• Nail disorders (rare)
• Joint pain (rare)
• Issues with inner organs (rare)

Cause

Dermatologists agree that the main cause of psoriasis is probably a genetic predisposition to repeated inflammatory processes in the skin. This inflammation creates flaky patches. The skin is dry and often sensitive. Exogenous (e.g. irritants, climate, infections, nutrition, skin cleansing and care products) and endogenous (e.g. stress, hormones, diseases) factors may trigger skin inflammation. 

The Do’s and Don’t’s

• Don’t try to scratch off the flaky patches or apply creams and salves not recommended by your doctor.
• Visit a dermatologist to get a qualified diagnosis and drug treatment.
• Don’t use soap or neutral skin cleansers. Wash your skin with pH 5.5 products (e.g. Sebamed Anti-Dry Wash Emulsion) instead.
• Don’t shower more than once a day or for more than 10 minutes each time.
• Avoid showering in water that is hotter than 95°F.
• Avoid soaking in the bathtub for a long time without specific therapeutic additives.
• Apply creams or lotions on your skin multiple times per day, but not on psoriatic lesions.
• Choose skincare products with a pH of 5.5 to help protect your skin against water loss.
• Use creams and lotions that are highly moisturizing, emollient, and protective (e.g. Sebamed Anti-Dry Day Defense Cream, Sebamed Anti-Dry Night Intensive Cream and Sebamed Anti-Dry Hydrating Body Lotion).
• Identify trigger factors for flare-ups and try to avoid them. If stress plays a role, practice relaxation techniques (e.g. yoga and meditation).
• Install an air humidifier to keep your skin hydrated.
• Test new skin care products on your forearm before using them on your whole body.