Self-Care for Psoriasis
You can do a great deal on your own to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. Be proactive by staying informed, keeping a positive attitude, taking good care of your symptoms at home, and avoiding any activities that aggravate your psoriasis.
Nutrition: Eating well will help your body cope with this or any medical challenge. If you are taking methotrexate, be sure to get enough folate, an important B vitamin.
Baths: Soaking for 15 minutes in a warm bath laced with oil; Epsom salts; Dead Sea salts; coal tar solution; or oiliated oatmeal, such as Aveeno Shower and Bath Oil, can temporarily relieve inflamed, scaly skin. After bathing, apply moisturizer while skin is still damp.
Moisturizers: Regular long-term use of fragrance-free moisturizers can make the skin look and feel better. Thick, heavy moisturizers work best at reducing scales and inflammation. Apply right after bathing, when skin is still moist.
Sunlight: Brief exposure to sunlight on a daily basis can clear mild psoriasis lesions. Be careful not to burn, and don't stay in the sun for long periods.
For arthritis symptoms, try the self-care suggestions in our osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis health assessments.
