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.
Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body including arms, hands, feet, nails, face and scalp.
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, scratches, 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.

Caused when the immune system is signaling skin cells to grow faster than necessary.

Product recommendations

For the Scalp

Dr.Hauschka Neem Hair Lotion

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.

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.

View more recommendations (4)

Key ingredient 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 recommendations

Alternative remedies including acupuncture, meditation, magnets and herbs are becoming increasingly popular in 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. Triggers can include particular products, stress, smoking, intense sun exposure and alcohol.