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Psoriasis is a common skin condition affecting people all over the world, both sexes and all races, and can occur at any stage of life, although it starts most frequently in young adults. Psoriasis is a speeding up of the usual replacement processes of the skin, and some describe it as the skin acting as if it were repairing an injury in certain areas by accelerating the growth of new skin cells. Normally skin cells take about 21 to 28 days to replace themselves. With Psoriasis, this process is greatly accelerated, and skin cells are instead replaced every 2 to 6 days. This results in an accumulation of skin cells on the surface of the skin, in the form of a psoriatic plaque. This process is the same wherever it occurs on the body, including the scalp.
The main feature of Psoriasis is a red, scaly area or patch. The patches appear particularly on the knees, elbows and scalp and sometimes on other parts of the trunk, and legs. Itching is usually only mild when it begins but can progress to become very itchy, with the skin bleeding as flaking occurs. Psoriasis only rarely affects general health apart from arthritis in some cases. A flare up in a person’s Psoriasis can, however, have a profound impact on an individual’s feelings of well-being and have a major impact on their way of life and daily activities. Once a person develops Psoriasis it usually continues, although it may get better or worse over time and even seem to disappear for prolonged periods.
Although no one single cause for Psoriasis has been found, it is known that inherited factors are important. In a person predisposed to Psoriasis, it can be brought out or made worse by emotional stress, scratching, rubbing, injury, certain medications, some infections, as well as smoking and drinking some alcohols.
Psoriasis is a very individual disease, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Phototherapy or light therapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis and under medical supervision. Treatments are done in a doctor’s office or Psoriasis clinic, or at home with a phototherapy unit. This works very well for some people but not so well for others. If you find the symptoms are less after a beach holiday, then this may be a good option (perhaps the lack of stress also helps?).
According to most practitioners, diet may be important in the management of Psoriasis. Researchers have recommended antioxidants, Beta Carotene, Folate, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Zinc as nutritional factors that may play a role in the prevention and management of Psoriasis. There is some evidence that a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in animal protein may be helpful.
Always see your medical practitioner for advice on how to manage Psoriasis. It's important not to believe in miracle cures. Because Psoriasis is caused by an over-production of skin cells, a topical cream will not be a “cure” but can help provide symptomatic relief from the itching and flaking.
We make a moisturizing spot treatment called Skin Calming Cream that easily sinks into skin for the symptomatic relief of Psoriasis. This is suitable for all ages including children, babies and adults, and can be used as often as needed whenever the skin becomes sensitive or irritated. If symptoms persist, consult your health care practitioner.
For anyone struggling with skin issues, we always recommend using our Skin Calming Cream in conjuction with a gentle skin cleanser like our Milk Wash and a natural, nourishing moisturizer like our Soothing MSM Moisturizer. You can find them together in our Skin Calming Set. To learn more about this routine, check out 3 Steps To Soothe Skin.