Pain, itchiness, redness, flaking, dryness, and scaly patches are all common complaints in patients with psoriasis. But, what is psoriasis? In honor of it being Psoriasis Action Month, we’ll take a look at what causes psoriasis and discuss some natural remedies for psoriasis that you can use at home to keep your psoriasis symptoms under control.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is actually a chronic, auto-immune, inflammatory skin disorder with a complicated genetic component. This condition can make quality of life less than ideal, especially for patients whose breakouts occur in highly-visible areas like the lower arms, hands, face, neck, or chest.
While some patients need more intensive professional help (such as medications or light therapy), luckily there are a few things you can do at home that can help ease your symptoms as well!
Are There Any Natural Remedies For Psoriasis?
What causes psoriasis? As we mentioned, this is an auto-immune condition with some genetic factors. Unfortunately, this condition can’t be completely cured with at-home remedies. However, you’ll probably be able to keep your psoriasis symptoms under control and from escalating with some of the following natural remedies for psoriasis:
#1: Coal Tar
Coal tar comes in a few forms, including shampoos, soaps, creams, and ointments. This product might seem a bit odd, but it’s actually exceptional for reducing inflammation and cleansing your skin effectively, without harsh chemicals.
#2: Steroidal Ointments
Since psoriasis is an auto-immune condition and the immune system is responsible for the destruction of your skin, steroidal creams tend to work incredibly well. It’s important to note that steroidal creams should be one of your last resorts; finding and avoiding triggers is always the better long-term solution. (In other words, make sure you talk to your doctor about this option first!)
#3: Salicylic Acid
It might seem counterproductive at first to rub an acid onto your damaged, red, itchy, burning skin. However, salicylic acid is actually an amazing skincare ingredient that will help reduce redness, burning, and inflammation. It is important to note that some people do find that salicylic acid irritates their skin, especially if it is used regularly.
#4: Light Therapies
One thing that can help your psoriasis is to head outdoors! Natural sunlight has been known to help ease symptoms of psoriasis, but we do want accompany this suggestion with a word of caution: most dermatologists wouldn’t recommend spending too much time in the sun, especially during hours of the day when rays are at their most powerful. If you want to try light therapy, talk to your dermatologist about skin-safe, medical-grade light therapy.
#5: Oatmeal Creams & Baths
Oatmeal baths and products aren’t just for babies and dogs; the natural oils and vitamins can also encourage your skin to recover. Additionally, oats combined with other skincare ingredients can make for a beautifully moisturizing and healing serum.
#6: Changing Up Your Diet
As with any health condition, it can’t hurt to try to clean up your diet. You can try keeping a food diary to help you keep track of potential triggers, but try to avoid high-carb foods, high glycemic index foods, and low-nutrient, high-preservative proteins.
#7: Epsom Salt
Like oatmeal baths and creams, Epsom salt has a soothing effect on damaged skin. It is thought that the magnesium in Epsom salt also helps remove scales and calm inflammation.
#8: Moisturizing Cleansers
Few people realize how much natural moisture certain cleansers can strip from the skin. Especially if you aren’t following up your daily cleanser with a moisturizer, you’ll find that your skin is more likely to develop scales and inflammation. The best thing you can do, then, is to optimize your daily skincare routine from the beginning: with a great moisturizing cleanser (like our Anti-Pollution Cleanser).
Do you struggle with psoriasis? If so, try out some of these at-home, natural remedies for psoriasis and see if you can reduce your psoriasis symptoms!