Skin Care Solutions for Psoriasis
Condition Overview
- A chronic, non-contagious autoimmune skin disease, psoriasis is the result of the immune system signaling skin cells to grow faster than necessary.
- Plaque psoriasis, the most common form, is indicated by red patches or lesions covered with a white buildup of dead skin cells.
- Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body including arms, hands, feet, nails, face and scalp.
- It's unknown what causes psoriasis, but many believe it has a genetic component.
- Psoriasis can be associated with other conditions including diabetes, heart disease and depression.
- Stress, allergies, diet, smoking, dry weather and types of infections can trigger psoriasis.
- Vaccinations, sunburns and scratches to the skin as well as medications may cause flare-ups.
- If you suspect you have psoriasis it is advisable to visit a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.
- There is no proven cure, but many therapies can reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Product Recommendations
For the Body
- Primavera Wild Lavender Skin Oil soothes skin and calms inflammation. For intense psoriasis flare-ups add seven drops of Immortelle oil and seven drops of Rock Rose oil.
- Erbaviva Stretch Mark Oil soothes skin with antioxidant-rich Carrot seed oil and Wheat Germ.
- Weleda Diaper Cream may seem like an odd choice, but the natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, including zinc and Calendula, help soothe and heal affected skin.
- Weleda Calendula Baby Oil is a good choice for mild cases or to use with another, more powerful, product.
For the Scalp
- Dr.Hauschka Neem Hair Lotion is blended with healing Neem and Burdock to treat and balance the scalp
- Dr.Hauschka Neem Hair Oil nourishes, protects and heals with Neem, Wheat Germ and Chamomile.
- Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil deeply conditions and nurtures extremely dry hair and scalp with Burdock root and Clover blossoms.
Key Ingredients To Look For
Burdock (Arctium Lappa)
Traditionally used to treat skin ailments including acne, psoriasis and dry scalp, Burdock root helps ease inflammation and itching. It also enhances the blood supply and strengthens skin.
Neem
Neem leaf has anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties to heal and soothe skin. It also strengthens, stimulates circulation and reduces flaking and irritation. Neem is often found in hair products due to its keratin protein strengthening and conditioning qualities.
Calendula
Extremely gentle, yet ideal for promoting healing, Calendula has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Used for centuries on everything from insect bites and burns to cuts and scrapes, it also helps calm and soothe eczema, acne and psoriasis.
Alternative Recommendation
- Alternative remedies including acupuncture, meditation, magnets and herbs are becoming increasingly popular in terms of treating psoriasis.
- Daily doses of controlled sunlight and exposure to water are popular natural therapies. Short, multiple exposures to the sun are most often recommended (with a non-irritating sunscreen on your skin).
- Daily warm baths with oil, Epsom salts or Dead Sea salts can calm inflamed skin. Be careful to avoid steaming hot baths.
- Immediately apply your heavy moisturizer or body oil after bathing or showering while your skin is still moist.
- Keep a journal to help you discover your psoriasis triggers. They can include particular products, stress, smoking, intense sun exposure and alcohol.
Warning
This article is for educational purposes only. Please consult a physician if you think you may have psoriasis or wish to alter your current treatment.
