Reducing Flare-Ups and Symptoms

In addition to following your doctor’s instructions, there are a number of things that you can do to limit your discomfort and actually help reduce flare-ups.

• Keep your skin cool; warmth tends to make itching worse.
• Wear loose fitting clothes. Tightness can injure your skin and worsen your symptoms.
• Keep your skin well moisturized with a moisturizer recommended by your dermatologist. (Some products may contain ingredients that can make symptoms worse.)
• Use mild un-scented soaps and deodorants, as these products will be least likely to irritate your skin.
• Many people find warm (not hot!) baths with baking soda or oatmeal very soothing. After a bath, apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp. Pat, don’t rub the towel on your skin.
• Use brushes with soft bristles. Wash hair gently and pat dry with a soft towel. If possible, let your hair dry naturally.
• An injury to your skin can cause psoriasis patches to form at the site of the injury.
• Take time to relax and enjoy stress-relieving personal or social activities. Regular exercise can also help relieve stress.