6 Tips To Help You Cope With Psoriasis This Summer
When it comes to the chronic skin condition known as psoriasis, New Jersey’s South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center team explains that symptoms can sometimes seem to improve in the summer. Increased exposure to sunlight is believed to have an immunosuppressant effect that reduces the frequency of flare-ups. Higher humidity is also beneficial for dry skin.
That said, the warmer months can be a double-edged sword for people who live with this condition. While sunlight can sometimes improve symptoms, excessive exposure to sunlight often triggers flare-ups. Moreover, flares may also appear after you sustain skin injuries due to other causes, such as cuts or bruises, spider or bug bites, or exposure to poison ivy. Unfortunately, while summer may be the prime time for enjoying the great outdoors, there’s also an increased likelihood of painful, itching insect bites, as well as little accidents common to camping, hiking, and even recreational activities around the pool in the backyard.
Regardless of whether you have psoriasis or not, it’s normal for your skin care routine to change with the seasons. Even if the spring and summer months are generally easier for psoriasis, they still have their unique challenges that can make you anxious about showing more skin.
1. Avoid Sunburn
Research has suggested that getting moderate, controlled sun exposure can actually be beneficial if you have psoriasis—just as long as you avoid sunburns. Limit your time in the sun, especially during peak hours during the day when the sun’s rays are most intense. When you do spend time outdoors, seek shade whenever possible and wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves. Using sunscreen can also help. It’s recommended that you apply SPF 50 sunscreen to any areas that aren’t covered with clothing. Never sunbathe for more than 15 minutes.
2. Wear Breathable Clothing
To minimize irritation, we recommend wearing loose-fitting cotton or linen clothing that is made from breathable fabrics. These materials allow your skin to breathe and reduce the risk of irritation and sweating, which can aggravate psoriasis. Avoid rough fabrics like wool and synthetic materials that can rub against your skin and cause friction. Clothing can also help you hide recent flare-ups or conceal side effects from treatments such as phototherapy.
3. Do What You Can to Stop Insect Bites
Any kind of hurt or irritation can result in a new patch of psoriasis. For some people who have psoriasis, even the smallest pinprick or bite from an insect can trigger new plaques. This is believed to occur due to the inflammatory responses to the injury that trigger a reaction. Use a bug repellant that has minimal synthetic chemicals. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Stay indoors at dusk when insects are most active, in order to help protect your skin.
4. Apply Moisturizer Often
Moisturizing is crucial for managing psoriasis, especially in the summer when your skin may be more prone to dryness. Choose a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer and apply it several times a day. Look for products containing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture and repair the skin barrier. Use a thick moisturizer if your skin feels dry after swimming or spending time in air-conditioned areas.
5. Swim with Caution
Swimming can be beneficial for psoriasis as it helps to remove dead skin cells and soothe itching. Swimming in saltwater is especially beneficial because it helps to slough off the dead skin and improve the look of psoriasis flare-ups. However, chlorinated pools and saltwater can sometimes irritate the skin, leaving it dry and flaky. Rinse off immediately after swimming to remove chlorine or salt and apply a gentle moisturizer to rehydrate your skin. If you’re swimming in a natural body of water, make sure it’s clean and safe to avoid infections.
6. Cool Off Indoors
Excessive heat and sweating can worsen psoriasis symptoms, especially on the face and scalp. Use air conditioning or fans to keep your living space cool and comfortable. If you don’t have access to air conditioning, consider spending time in public places like malls, libraries, or community centers that are air-conditioned. Just remember that while air conditioning prevents sweating, it can also cause your skin to dry out. Remember to moisturize once or twice a day with a heavy cream or ointment if you spend a lot of time in air conditioning.
Interested in learning more about managing psoriasis in New Jersey? Contact NJ’s South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center. Call (856) 810-9888 or book online to request a consultation for more information on treatments for skin diseases.