Psoriasis is a recurring autoimmune disorder, characterized by itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales – often occurring on your elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms and feet. Oddly enough, while it affects your skin, psoriasis actually begins deep on the inside – in your immune system. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, 125 million people worldwide – about two to three percent of the total population suffer from psoriasis.
Though it can be hard to diagnose because it can look like other skin diseases, here’s what we know. A problem within your immune system causes psoriasis. In a process called cell turnover, skin cells grow deep in your dermis before rising to the surface. This typically takes about one month. With psoriasis, the process is complete in a matter of days. Because your cells are rising entirely too fast, you’re left with the unsightly skin woe.
Even more, there’s no cure. In fact, psoriasis symptoms tend to come and go as they please. In saying that, many factors can worsen or soothe the ailment.
Factors that worsen psoriasis:
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- Infection
- Stress
- Dry skin
- Certain medications
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Remedies for Soothing Psoriasis from the Comfort of Your Home
Avoid alcohol
A study conducted by the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that indulging in a little libation increased the risk of psoriasis among women who drank non-light beer.
Those who drank at least five non-light beers per week were nearly twice as likely to develop the skin condition when compared to women who didn’t drink alcoholic beverages.
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Avoid fragrances
Opt for soaps and perfumes developed with “sensitive skin” in mind. Since many beauty products contain added dyes, fragrances and other chemicals, they’ll likely irritate problematic skin.
Tip: For scalp psoriasis, try massaging a few tablespoons of olive oil onto your scalp to help loosen troublesome patches.
Capsaicin
An active ingredient in chili peppers, capsaicin is often added to creams and ointments, due to its ability to block nerve endings that transmit pain.
Researchers from the University Medical Center Freiburg, in Freiburg, Germany, found that OTC creams (containing capsaicin) may soothe pain, inflammation, redness and scaling associated with psoriasis.
Diet
Eliminating red meat and processed foods may reduce flare-ups. Instead, reach for fish (albacore tuna, mackerel, salmon, herring, and lake trout), nuts and seeds, as well as food rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
These are known for their ability to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Also, aim to consume less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day, experts say.
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Supplements
Dietary supplements can combat symptoms from the inside out. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, studies have shown a direct link between vitamins and supplements like aloe vera, evening primrose oil, fish oil, milk thistle, Oregon grape, vitamin D, glucosamine and chondroitin (dietary supplements) and psoriatic disease.
Since ingredients can be inconsistent, it's important to first consult your doctor, as some options may interfere with the medications you’re currently taking to manage your psoriasis.
