7 Things You Should Never Put On Your Skin If You Have Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin. It can cause painful symptoms like patches of raised, shiny or thickened skin. Be kind to the largest organ in your body and read beauty labels carefully to keep your psoriasis under control. Here’s what to avoid:
1. Lotions with alcohol
Psoriasis symptoms often get worse due to dry skin, so creams and lotions are essential but try to avoid ones that contain alcohol. Ethanol, isopropyl alcohol and methanol are often used in skincare products so just make sure the label is free of these.
2. Fragrance
You can avoid making your psoriasis worse by aiming for a fragrance-free hair or skin product. You should also try to avoid spraying perfumes directly on your skin.
3. Sulfates
Sulfates help your toothpaste, shampoo and soap foam up, but they aren’t good for sensitive skin. Check your labels for “sodium lauryl sulfate” or “sodium laureth sulfate.”
4. Wool and heavy fabrics
Lighter fabrics will cause less skin irritation than their heavy counterparts. Cotton and silk blends will allow your skin to breathe better.
5. Tattoos
A tattoo is made of tiny cuts in the skin. This kind of cut can trigger a psoriasis flare up and, as in one case, even result in skin lesions all over the body, not just where the tattoo was applied. Skip the ink to protect your skin if you have psoriasis.
6. Excessive sunlight
Aim for only about 20 minutes at a time in the sun and always use sunscreen. Sunburn may trigger psoriasis symptoms and increase the risk of skin cancer.
7. Hot water
We’re not saying you have to take cold showers from now on, but opt for warm instead of hot water. Hot water can dry out or even burn sensitive skin.
If your psoriasis symptoms are still bothering you, there are different ways to get care. You can also get access to a licensed dermatologist through telehealth services. Choosing the right care option now can help you save time and money later.
