Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition, it’s an autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes red, scaly patches that can be itchy, painful, and emotionally challenging. While there is no permanent cure, the right skincare routine, lifestyle changes, and medical support can significantly reduce flare-ups and improve quality of life.
In this blog, we’ll break down the causes, triggers, daily care tips, home remedies, and treatments for psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition where skin cells grow much faster than normal. This rapid buildup causes visible plaques—red patches covered with silvery-white scales. Unlike eczema, psoriasis is often thicker, drier, and linked to immune system over activity.
Common Types of Psoriasis
· Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris) – The most common form, causing raised red patches covered with silvery-white scales, often appearing on elbows, knees, and scalp. It can be itchy, painful, and may crack or bleed.
· Guttate Psoriasis – Appears as small, red, drop-shaped spots on the skin, usually triggered by infections like strep throat. It often affects children and young adults.
· Inverse Psoriasis – Found in skin folds such as armpits, under the breasts, or around the groin. It appears as smooth, red, shiny lesions without the thick scales seen in plaque psoriasis.
· Pustular Psoriasis – Characterized by white pustules (blisters filled with non-infectious pus) surrounded by red, inflamed skin. It can occur in small areas or spread widely.
· Erythrodermic Psoriasis – A rare but severe type causing widespread redness, scaling, and intense itching or pain. It can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
What Triggers Psoriasis Flare-Ups?
Psoriasis symptoms often come and go. Some common triggers include:
Stress & Anxiety
Cold Weather & Dry Skin
Skin Injuries (Koebner phenomenon)
Certain Foods & Alcohol
Medications (like beta-blockers, lithium)
Infections (strep throat, skin infections)
Knowing your triggers is the first step to controlling flare-ups.
Psoriasis self care Tip:
- Moisturize Frequently – Thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments keep skin hydrated.
- Take Lukewarm Showers – Hot water strips natural oils, worsening dryness.
- Use Gentle Cleansers – Avoid harsh soaps with sulfates and alcohol.
- Apply Sunscreen Daily – Sunburn can trigger flare-ups.
- Avoid Scratching – Scratching worsens irritation and scaling.
- Choose Breathable Fabrics – Cotton is better than wool or synthetic fibers.
Home Remedies That Help Psoriasis
People around the world firstly try to do home remedies to reduce psoriasis which includes:
- Aloe Vera Gel – Soothes irritation and reduces redness.
- Coconut Oil – Softens thick scales and relieves dryness.
- Oatmeal Baths – Calm itchiness and reduce inflammation.
- Honey – Has antibacterial and healing properties.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts to reduce inflammation.
Medical Treatments for Psoriasis
For moderate to severe psoriasis, dermatologists may recommend:
- Topical Treatments: Corticosteroids, Vitamin D analogs, coal tar creams.
- Light Therapy (Phototherapy): Controlled UV light exposure.
- Oral Medications: Methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin.
- Biologics: Injections like adalimumab and ustekinumab target specific immune responses.
*Always consult a dermatologist before starting treatment.
Lifestyle Changes to Control Psoriasis
Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
Eat an anti-inflammatory diet (more vegetables, fruits, omega-3s, less processed food).
Stay hydrated.
Maintain a healthy weight (obesity worsens psoriasis).
Quit smoking & alcohol—both worsen flare-ups.
Top 10 OTC Creams & Moisturizers for Psoriasis
1. CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream
Contains salicylic acid, urea, ceramides, niacinamide, and lactic acid to exfoliate and hydrate. Balances barrier repair with gentle plaque-softening action. Widely recommended by dermatologists and affordable.
2. MG217 Medicated Multi-Symptom Cream
Combines salicylic acid and coal tar to both exfoliate and slow plaque formation. Includes soothing ingredients like aloe vera and avocado oil. Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation.
3. Gold Bond Multi-Symptom Psoriasis Relief Cream
Features salicylic acid plus aloe and vitamin E to treat itching, redness, and scaling. Budget-friendly and widely available.
4. Cortizone 10+ Maximum Strength (1% Hydrocortisone)
A mild topical steroid to relieve inflammation, redness, and itching. Effective for short-term flare-up relief.
5. Eucerin Skin Calming Cream
Contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe irritation and lock in moisture. Gentle and great for sensitive skin, though not specifically formulated for psoriasis.
6. Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
A fragrance-, dye-, and paraben-free cream praised for its nourishing yet simple formula that helps relieve psoriasis-related dryness and itchiness.
7. Vaseline (Petroleum Jelly)
An occlusive moisturizer that locks in hydration, softens plaques, and enhances healing. A great layering option over medicated treatments.
8. Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Treatment Gel
Fragrance-free gel with 3% salicylic acid and a zinc complex, designed to reduce scaling, soothe itching, and moisturize. Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation.
9. TriDerma Psoriasis Control Face & Body Cream
Lightweight, non-greasy cream with salicylic acid and soothing botanical ingredients like aloe, oat protein, and vitamins B & E—suitable for sensitive skin.
10. Kenkoderm 2% Salicylic Acid Moisturizing Cream
Combines salicylic acid with meadowfoam seed oil and shea butter to soften and soothe plaques while supporting the skin barrier.
Psoriasis may not have a permanent cure, but with the right skincare, lifestyle habits, and medical support you can manage flare-ups and live more comfortably. The key is consistency and knowing your triggers. Small daily changes like moisturizing, stress management, and using gentle products can make a huge difference
