Do you constantly notice red, scaly patches on your skin? Or is it purple, gray, dark brown, and scaly? You might have psoriasis, and we’ve got just the way to manage it!
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes your skin to look red, scaly, flaky (if you have fairer skin), gray, dark brown, and scaly (on darker skin tones).
It can also be super uncomfortable and itchy.
While psoriasis is not ‘curable,” it is manageable; you’ve just gotta know what to do and what NOT to do to prevent flare-ups!
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition. Usually, your skin takes weeks to multiply and regenerate.
But with this overreactive immune system issue, your skin cells multiply too fast, leading to a rapid buildup of thick, scaly skin patches in just days!
Some things can trigger it or make it worse, like:
? Stress
? Cold weather
? Skin injuries (cuts, burns, insect bites)
? Certain infections, e.g, streptococcal infection
? Some medications like lithium and beta-blockers.
Now, even though there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, there are things you can do to prevent flare-ups and maintain a smooth skin tone and texture.
How to Manage Psoriasis in Lagos
- Hydrate and moisturize like it’s all that matters!
With psoriasis, there’s a risk of having dry and scaly skin. To combat this, invest in good hydrating products like hyaluronic acid serum and a good moisturizer to lock in moisture.
- Protect with Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from UV rays is a must to prevent further flare-ups. Go for broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen and ensure it’s SPF 30 or more.
- Try topical skincare treatments
Topical skincare products with specific ingredients can make a difference for your psoriasis.
✔️ Corticosteroids: Check for this ingredient in ointments, oils, moisturizers, and treatments.
For sensitive areas of your body (like your face), go for a mild corticosteroid like hydrocortisone. For tougher areas like your knee or elbows, go for stronger corticosteroids like triamcinolone and clobetasol.
✔️ Vitamin D: This can help slow down cell growth. Look for ingredients like calcipotriene or calcitriol.
✔️ Retinoids like Tazarotene.
✔️ Anthralin to minimize skin cell growth.
✔️ Urea creams and lotions to support the skin barrier and exfoliate excess skin cells.
Pro tip: Get a prescription from a dermatologist to know the best treatment plan for yourself.
- Always go for fragrance-free and alcohol-free skincare products made for sensitive skin.
Things to Avoid When You Have Psoriasis
❌ Harsh skincare products with ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, fragrances, and alcohol or ethanol.
❌ Scratching or picking at the patches (it can make things worse).
❌ Stress
❌ Long, hot showers: Instead, opt for warm baths of not more than 10 minutes.
❌ Vigorous scrubbing while bathing.
❌ Excessive skin cleansing.
❌ Shaving with dull shaving blades or with too much pressure.
❌ Excessive hair removal rituals like waxing or shaving.
Final Thoughts on Psoriasis in Lagos
Having psoriasis should not stop you from getting the radiant, smooth, and flawless skin you desire.
The right treatment and preventive techniques can make all the difference. Make sure to take care of your skin daily and avoid triggers to avoid flare-ups and itchiness.
