While Autumn heralds the festivities of the holiday season, it also invites dry skin-related issues. And although, for most the shorter days and longer nights prompt merriment, it is less amiable for patients suffering from psoriasis.
Make note that 29th October has been recognized as World Psoriasis Day by the International Federation of Psoriasis Association. It is important to create awareness about the skin condition, its symptoms and treatment to honor the event.
Psoriasis is caused by an abnormal rate of skin growth. In most people, the body naturally sheds old skin cells and generates new ones every month. In psoriasis patients, new skin cells are generated daily, causing the old cells to form patches layered over the skin that flakes off. Psoriasis can also cause itchy and painful lesions on the skin.
In the hotter months of the year, the ultraviolet rays of the sun curb the rampant generation of skin cells, reducing the flaky skin. During Fall and Winter, the lack of natural moisture in the skin and reduced exposure to sunlight increases psoriatic outbreaks.
If you’ve been noticing patchy scales on the elbows, scalp, hands, feet, knees or lower back, here are some remedial measures you can try at home.
Use Bath Salts To Detox
Use Bath Salts To Detox: Carolyn Dean, MD, ND, a women’s health expert, nutrition expert and author suggests using magnesium salts in a warm bath. It is a natural detoxifier and not only helps with skin conditions, but also soothes tired skin and promotes good sleep. Soaking yourself in a salted bath is said to have several health benefits—right from relieving muscle soreness to boosting one’s mood. And you can prepare a good soak right at home with these 5 skin healing DIYs.
Try Fatty Acids
Try Fatty Acids: Fatty acids will moisturize the skin from within, helping you prevent an outbreak for longer. Include almonds, flaxseeds and salmon in your diet. About 500mg omega-3 per day equates to eating 2 fatty fish mains per week—which, the seafood lover in us is more than happy to do. In any case, adding omega-3 to your diet naturally is far better than popping supplements. We’re gonna help you get your skin’s fill to prevent eczema, acne, psoriasis and signs of aging.
Avoid Prolonged Hot Showers
Avoid Prolonged Hot Showers: A hot shower is often comforting during the cold season. These showers, however, wash off the essential protective skin oils, exposing our skin to dryness and therefore, psoriatic attacks. The heat of the water can cause irritation to the skin as well. Try to restrict yourself to one 5-minute shower a day, to avoid a flare up. “You should also avoid swimming for exercise during the colder months,” says Dr Dale Isaacson, a dermatologist and cosmetic makeover specialist in Washington, DC.
Moisturize
Moisturize: Choose a good moisturizer that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals such as sulphate, alcohol and preservatives that act as further irritants to your already irritated skin. Use a moisturizer that penetrates your skin and don’t hesitate to use it frequently. Have a tube handy in your purse, in the car and at work. Also, install a humidifier at home. This will help relieve the effects of the dry winter air on your skin. Noha Hakim, the owner of Seal and Cosmetics, suggests a bath with Dead Sea salt and moisturizing the skin with aloe vera gel, combined with drops of tea tree oil and vitamin E.
Reduce Stress
Reduce Stress: It is considered one of the main reasons for psoriatic outbreaks. A 2010 study also showed that patients with psoriasis have an increased risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal tendencies. Try yoga and meditation to calm your mind. Here are 8 ways to de-stress and have fun with yoga. For many, stopping to slow down and smell the roses is not an easy option. But, one can always opt for natural stress relievers that can fit into the day, seamlessly.
PS: For solutions to suit your specific skin type, head to our Skincare Section.
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