You may be able to manage mild psoriasis symptoms at home with supplements, moisturizers, or other remedies. But everyone is different, so it’s important to find what works for you and your symptoms.
Psoriasis is a recurring autoimmune disorder that affects more than
It tends to appear pink or red, usually with silvery-white scales, on those that have fair to light skin tones. On medium skin tones, it may look salmon-colored with a silvery-white scale, and on darker skin tones, it could look violet and the scale gray. Or it can also appear dark brown and difficult to see.
Even though it affects your skin, psoriasis actually begins inside your body in your immune system.
Psoriasis is a condition where your T-cells, a type of white blood cell, can become overactive to produce other immune markers that can cause an inflammatory reaction on the skin. The reaction on the skin shows up in the form of silvery-white scale, depending on the skin ton
Even though there’s no cure, many treatments exist to ease the symptoms of psoriasis. Here are 12 ways to manage mild symptoms at home.
Dietary supplements may help ease psoriasis symptoms from the inside.
Fish oil, vitamin D, milk thistle, aloe vera, Oregon grape, and evening primrose oil have all been reported to help ease mild symptoms of psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Check with your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they don’t interfere with other health conditions you may have or medications you’re taking.
Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home or office moist. This can help prevent dry skin before it starts.
Moisturizers for sensitive skin can keep your skin supple and moisturized.
Aloe vera has been shown in some cases to reduce redness and irritation caused by psoriasis. A
More research is needed to show for sure if aloe vera can improve symptoms of psoriasis. However, the risk of trying aloe vera gels or creams is low, so it may be worth a try.
Most soaps and perfumes have dyes and other chemicals in them that may irritate your skin. They can make you smell great, but they also can inflame psoriasis.
Avoid such products when you can, or choose those with “sensitive skin†labels.
Diet may play a role in managing psoriasis.
Limiting red meat, saturated fats, refined sugars, carbohydrates, and alcohol may help reduce flare-ups triggered by such foods.
Cold water fish, seeds, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids are known for their ability to reduce inflammation. This can be helpful for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Olive oil may also have soothing benefits when applied topically to the skin. Try massaging a few tablespoons on your scalp to help loosen troublesome plaques during your next shower.
A lukewarm bath with Epsom salt, mineral oil, milk, or olive oil can soothe the itching and infiltrate scales and plaques. Oatmeal baths can also be very helpful and soothing for plaque psoriasis.
Be sure that the water is not hot. Hot water can cause more irritation.
Moisturize immediately after your bath for double benefits.
Light therapy involves exposing your skin to ultraviolet light under the supervision of a doctor.
Ultraviolet light can help slow the growth of skin cells triggered by psoriasis. This therapy often requires consistent and frequent sessions. Sitting in the sun for 10 to 15 minutes can also help reduce plaques.
However, too much sunlight and tanning beds aren’t the best options as they can also increase your risk of skin cancer.
Light therapy should always be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Any chronic condition like psoriasis can be a source of stress, which in turn can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
In addition to reducing stress whenever possible, consider incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga and meditation.
A study in 2015 found an increased risk of psoriasis among women who drank nonlight beer. Those who drank at least five nonlight beers per week were nearly twice as likely to develop psoriasis compared to women who didn’t drink.
Herbs are commonly used to treat many conditions.
Turmeric has been found to help minimize psoriasis flare-ups. It can be taken in pill or supplement form, or sprinkled on your food.
Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits for you.
Avoid tobacco. Smoking may increase your risk of psoriasis.
If you already have psoriasis, it can make your symptoms more severe.
Being overweight or obese puts you at a greater risk of developing psoriasis. Obesity is also associated with more severe psoriasis symptoms.
Here are some tips for losing weight:
- exercise on a regular basis
- cut back on refined carbs
- eat plenty of vegetables and protein
There isn’t a single answer for keeping the symptoms of psoriasis at bay. What works for one person may not work for another.
Some treatment options may have negative side effects for preexisting conditions other than psoriasis.
While these remedies for psoriasis may help with mild cases, prescription therapy is required for more severe cases. Talk to your doctor before seeking treatment on your own.
A dermatologist can treat the thick, red, scaly patches of skin (also known as plaques) from psoriasis. They can also treat other parts of your body that moderate to severe psoriasis may affect, such as your scalp and nails. Consider checking with your dermatologist when you experience a flare or worsening symptoms.
Nearly a third of people with psoriasis develop a condition called psoriatic arthritis. This can cause swollen, stiff, or painful joints. A rheumatologist can determine if you have psoriatic arthritis and prescribe treatments to control your symptoms. This type of doctor specializes in treating arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.
Psoriasis has been linked to other health conditions, such as lymphoma, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A primary care doctor can help you find ways to reduce your risk of other conditions and improve your overall health. They can also screen you for early warning signs of psoriasis complications and refer you to a specialist, if necessary.
While psoriasis has no cure, it can be treated with a variety of prescription medications (like immunosuppressive drugs) and over-the-counter drugs (such as topical ointments). A pharmacist can provide information and tips on following your treatment plan and can make sure your medications are safe to take together. They can also answer questions or address concerns about your medications.
Stress has been shown to be a trigger for psoriasis flares. A psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or clinical social worker can help you develop personalized ways to manage stress. Self-care techniques — such as breathing exercises, journaling, meditation, yoga, and stretching — can also help you ease stress.
Cutting back on foods that trigger psoriasis flares can help reduce symptoms. A dietitian can help you develop a nutritious eating plan that may potentially reduce inflammation in the body. They can also help you maintain a healthy weight to avoid obesity and reduce your risk of psoriasis-related complications, such as diabetes and heart disease.