Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal, resulting in red patches covered with white scales. These typically appear on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.
Managing psoriasis can be challenging, especially during summer when heat and sun exposure can either alleviate or exacerbate symptoms. Here are seven effective ways to treat and manage psoriasis during the summer months:
- Take Advantage of Sunlight
- Stay Hydrated
- Choose the Right Clothing
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
- Stay Cool
- Stress Management
- Follow Your Treatment Plan
Table of Contents
0.1. Take Advantage of Sunlight
0.2. Stay Hydrated
0.3. Choose the Right Clothing
0.5. Stay Cool
0.6. Stress Management
Take Advantage of Sunlight
Sunlight can be beneficial for people with psoriasis because UVB rays can slow the growth of affected skin cells. However, it's essential to balance sun exposure to avoid sunburn, which can worsen psoriasis. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Limit Exposure: Spend short periods in the sun, about 10-15 minutes a day, gradually increasing exposure over time.
- Protect Healthy Skin: Use sunscreen on unaffected areas to prevent sunburn. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
- Timing: Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun's rays are the strongest.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a pivotal role in managing psoriasis, particularly during the summer months when higher temperatures and increased sun exposure can quickly deplete the skin's moisture levels. Psoriasis, characterised by rapid skin cell turnover and inflammation, can worsen with dehydration, leading to dryness, itchiness and potentially more severe flare-ups.
- Drink Water: Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. Increase your intake if you are sweating more.
- Moisturise: Use a good-quality moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. Look for products containing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid or urea.
- Humidifiers: If you are in an air-conditioned environment, consider using a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air.
Choose the Right Clothing
The clothing you wear can significantly impact your psoriasis management during summer. The wrong fabric or tight clothing can irritate your skin and trigger flare-ups in the hot weather.
- Loose-Fitting Clothes: Wear loose, lightweight and breathable clothing to reduce irritation and allow your skin to breathe.
- Natural Fabrics: Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or linen, which are gentle on the skin and help wick away moisture.
- Avoid Rough Fabrics: Steer clear of synthetic materials and rough fabrics that can chafe and aggravate your skin.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in managing psoriasis symptoms. While there's no one-size-fits-all diet for psoriasis, incorporating certain foods can help reduce inflammation and support overall skin health.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants and vitamins.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts, which can help reduce inflammation.
- Avoid Triggers: Some people find that alcohol, red meat and processed foods can trigger their psoriasis symptoms. Pay attention to your diet and avoid foods that cause flare-ups.
Stay Cool
Excessive heat and sweating can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, so it's essential to stay cool and maintain a comfortable body temperature during the hot summer months of the year.
- Cool Showers: Take cool showers to soothe your skin and reduce inflammation. Avoid hot showers, as they can dry out your skin.
- Air Conditioning: Use air conditioning or fans to keep your environment cool.
- Avoid Sweating: Engage in activities that minimise excessive sweating. If you exercise, choose cooler times of the day and shower immediately afterwards to remove sweat.
Stress Management
Stress is a well-known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Finding effective ways to manage stress can significantly improve your overall well-being and help keep your psoriasis symptoms under control.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga.
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep, as fatigue can increase stress levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Adhering to your prescribed treatment plan is important, even during summer when symptoms might seem less severe. Here are some common treatments and medications used to manage psoriasis:
- Betnovate/Betamethasone: Betnovate is a topical corticosteroid containing betamethasone, which helps relieve redness and inflammation. Apply it to the affected area once or twice a day as prescribed by your doctor.
- Dermovate: Dermovate Cream & Ointment contains Clobetasol Proportionate 0.05%, a powerful corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching. Use it exactly as prescribed and wash your hands immediately after application.
- Dovobet Gel: Dovobet contains calcipotriol and betamethasone, which reduce redness and flaking. Apply it as directed by your doctor to slow down the growth of new skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Dovonex Ointment: Dovonex contains calcipotriol, a vitamin D analogue that decreases the excess production of skin cells. Apply it to the affected area twice a day and reduce application to once a day as symptoms improve.
Bonus Tips
Swimming can be an excellent way to stay cool, but chlorinated pools can dry out and irritate your skin. If you swim in a chlorinated pool rinse off chlorine immediately after swimming. Apply a thick layer of moisturiser after your shower to lock in moisture.
Switch to gentle, fragrance-free skincare products during the summer to avoid irritating your skin. Do not scrub your skin harshly, as it can cause micro-tears and worsen psoriasis.
Get Your Skin Treatments Delivered to Your Door
Managing psoriasis in the summer can be a delicate balance of taking advantage of the sun’s benefits while protecting your skin from excessive heat and sunburn. By staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, maintaining a healthy diet, staying cool, managing stress and following your treatment plan, you can keep your psoriasis symptoms under control. With the right approach, you can enjoy a comfortable and flare-free summer.
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Ordering from us is simple and ensures you get top-quality products delivered right to your home. Our easy-to-use website and helpful customer service make finding and buying your medicines hassle-free. Explore our website today and start your journey to better skin.
