Many people with psoriasis look forward to the warmer weather months. The warm, moist air of spring and summer can help to relieve dryness and itching, and sunshine helps to improve skin symptoms. Even though spring and summer are gentler on your skin, there are still some precautions you should take to keep psoriasis flares at bay. But I can’t stress enough that everyone use common sense when dealing with skin issues. For example if you change your laundry detergent and you suddenly have a flare up… DON’T blame the clothing your wearing that you have had for 2 years.

Basically pay attention and use common sense.

You need to understand that research has shown that sun exposure can reduce local and systemic (all-over) inflammation in people with psoriasis. Which is awesome. You still need to take care to protect your exposed skin because sunburns increases your risk for a flare-ups. Remember that some of the medications you may be taking can cause photo-sensitivity, which means your skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet rays from the sun. So take extra precautions to protect your skin. Maybe apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to areas of skin not affected by psoriasis patches and wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat… again common sense stuff. Oh and sunlight is how your body makes Vitamin D… which is a good thing. A really good thing!!!

Remember to apply moisturizers generously and often. Moisturizers can help protect your skin and keep it hydrated. It is especially important to apply moisturizer after being out in the sun or spending time in air conditioning, as both can dry out skin. We make some awesome all natural lotions that will amaze you.

Wear loose fitting lightweight clothing, like cotton fabrics. This is less likely to irritate your skin or cause you to overheat. Being overheated and excessively sweaty may increase the chance for a flare or worsen psoriasis symptoms. If you choose to stay in air-conditioned spaces on very hot days, remember to apply moisturizer, because air conditioning can dry out skin, people tend to forget that point.

And for the Love of God… Relax. The spring and summer seasons are great for relaxation. Make time each day to do something that relaxes you. This can be anything from working in your garden, taking a swim or a walk, or sitting outdoors and reading. Sipping iced tea on the porch, just relax. Usually you will find that the less stressed you are the less flare ups you will see.

Stay Sudys My Friends