Everyday habits can significantly impact skin health for people with psoriasis, according to Ohio State Health and Discovery on June 26. While limited sunlight may help some individuals by slowing rapid skin-cell turnover, excessive sun exposure can irritate the skin and trigger painful flare-ups. The article emphasizes that it is important to consult a dermatologist to determine what level of sun exposure is safe.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that accelerates the growth of skin cells and affects people of all skin tones. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as thick, pink scaling plaques typically found on elbows, knees, and buttocks but can affect any part of the body. Inflammation may be harder to detect in patients with darker skin tones. Psoriasis is not contagious but can spread to injured or scratched areas due to a phenomenon known as Koebner phenomenon.
The article states that tanning does not help psoriasis; instead, controlled phototherapy administered by medical professionals offers a safer alternative. "In a medical setting, a clinician can tailor the type and dose of light treatment to your skin and symptoms," the article says. Medical phototherapy commonly uses narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) light, which targets psoriasis while minimizing unnecessary exposure. This method is considered much safer than using tanning beds or over-the-counter UV lamps because tanning beds primarily emit UVA radiation associated with increased risk for skin cancer.
Other recommendations include trading hot showers for warm ones since hot water may cause inflammation leading to itchiness or worsening symptoms if scratching occurs. Frequent moisturizing—especially after showering—with fragrance-free lotions recognized by organizations such as the National Psoriasis Foundation is advised. Over-the-counter remedies like salicylic acid shampoos or creams, coal tar products, sunflower oil, or jojoba oil are also mentioned as helpful options for managing symptoms.
Certain habits should be avoided, including harsh exfoliation and use of anti-aging products without consulting a doctor if affected areas are involved. Diets rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean meats are recommended while fried foods or those high in sugar should be minimized due to their pro-inflammatory properties. Stress management techniques are encouraged since stress may exacerbate flare-ups; smoking worsens some types of psoriasis while alcohol consumption should generally be minimized.
Prescription treatments such as topical corticosteroids may become necessary for many patients; more extensive cases might require phototherapy or systemic medications taken orally or by injection.
Ohio State Health and Discovery addresses societal issues such as health equity through research advances in patient care at its hospitals and outpatient facilities across Ohio and globally, according to the official website.
