Inflammation and Psoriasis
Take a deeper dive into the role inflammation may play in psoriasis.
psoriasisSPEAKS SEASONAL
GUIDE: WINTER EDITION
- Remember to keep your skin properly moisturized during colder months.
- Dress in soft, comfortable layers.
- Keep an eye on cold and flu symptoms, which can affect your immune system and can play a role in your psoriasis.
How to Control Psoriasis in the Winter
When you have psoriasis, winter can be anything but a wonderland. That doesn’t mean you have to go into hibernation though. Check out some psoriasis tips for managing those cold-weather flare-ups.
Winter wardrobe
When the temperature drops, you want to bundle up—but for some people, materials like wool or angora can be itchy and irritate plaques. Instead, try layering soft pieces of clothing that help keep you warm while still being comfortable. Look for lightweight fabrics like pashmina, cashmere, rayon, and soft knit or other fabrics that won't irritate your skin.
Cold & flu season
Cold & flu season
Psoriasis is a disease of the immune system. That means anything that affects the immune system, like a cold or the flu, can also play a role in your psoriasis.
Here are some tips for keeping these germs at bay:
- Get plenty of rest. Remember that your body needs time to rest and heal, so try to get as much sleep as possible. This can even help you reduce stress, a common flare-up trigger.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water, juice, or even warm broth can help prevent dehydration and even loosen congestion. On the other hand, alcohol or coffee may have the opposite effect.
- Wash your hands carefully and often. It’s simple, but it can make a difference. A good lather and scrubbing for 20 seconds are important steps you can take to be healthy.
Can I Get a Flu Shot?
It’s safe to get flu shots when you have psoriasis—as long as it’s not during a flare-up. However, getting an injection of any kind may trigger flare-ups in some people, while having no effect on others. If you have psoriasis, make sure you talk to a doctor before getting a flu shot or starting any new medication.
There are plenty of winter psoriasis triggers to navigate—it’s important you stay informed, and work with your dermatologist to manage your condition.
If you’re thinking about making a change to your psoriasis management plan this winter, make sure to talk to your dermatologist first.
Don’t have a dermatologist? Use our Doctor Locator to find one near you.
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