Psoriasis olive oil. Best Natural Ingredients and Oils for Psoriasis: Effective Home Remedies
What natural ingredients can help manage psoriasis symptoms. How can olive oil, coconut oil, and other essential oils provide relief for psoriasis. Which home remedies are most effective for soothing psoriasis-related itching and inflammation.
Understanding Psoriasis and Natural Treatment Options
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scaling on the skin’s surface. While medical treatments are essential, many people with psoriasis also turn to natural remedies to help manage their symptoms. These natural ingredients and oils can complement prescribed treatments, potentially offering relief from dryness, itching, and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Can natural remedies replace prescribed psoriasis treatments? No, they cannot substitute for medications prescribed by a physician. However, they can be used in conjunction with medical treatments to help alleviate minor symptoms and improve overall skin health.
The Benefits of Olive Oil for Psoriasis Management
Olive oil stands out as a versatile and effective natural remedy for psoriasis. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, it offers multiple benefits for those struggling with psoriasis symptoms.
- Moisturizing properties: Olive oil is an excellent moisturizer, helping to combat the dryness often associated with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It can help calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
- Scalp treatment: Applying olive oil to the scalp may help loosen psoriasis scales.
- Full-body relief: Adding warmed olive oil to bathwater can provide a soothing full-body treatment.
How should olive oil be applied for psoriasis relief? For targeted treatment, apply a small amount directly to psoriasis plaques on the scalp, elbows, or other affected areas. For a full-body treatment, add 2 teaspoons of warmed olive oil to your bath water.
Olive Oil in Diet: A Holistic Approach
Beyond topical application, incorporating olive oil into your diet may also offer benefits for psoriasis management. Research published in JAMA Dermatology suggests that following a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes extra-virgin olive oil, may help prevent psoriasis from worsening. This dual approach of topical application and dietary inclusion makes olive oil a valuable tool in the natural management of psoriasis symptoms.
Coconut Oil: Nature’s Moisturizer for Psoriasis
Coconut oil is another natural ingredient that shows promise in managing psoriasis symptoms. Its primary benefit lies in its ability to combat the dryness associated with psoriasis.
How does coconut oil help with psoriasis? Coconut oil helps trap moisture in the skin, providing relief from the dryness and flakiness often experienced with psoriasis. Additionally, it can be used on the scalp to help loosen psoriasis scales, making it easier to remove them gently.
To use coconut oil for psoriasis, gently rub a small amount onto psoriasis plaques, just as you would with any moisturizer. For scalp treatment, massage a small amount into the scalp, focusing on areas with visible scales.
Tea Tree Oil: A Potent Anti-Inflammatory for Psoriasis
Tea tree oil, derived from a plant native to Australia, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a potentially effective natural remedy for psoriasis and other skin conditions.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis plaques.
- Antimicrobial properties: It may help prevent secondary infections in affected skin areas.
- Soothing relief: Many users report a cooling, soothing sensation when applied to irritated skin.
How should tea tree oil be used for psoriasis? Due to its potency, tea tree oil should always be diluted before application. Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 10 parts olive oil, then apply the mixture to affected areas using a cotton ball.
Is tea tree oil safe for everyone with psoriasis? While generally safe, some individuals may be allergic to tea tree oil. It’s crucial to perform a patch test before applying it to larger areas of skin. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to the inside of your forearm and cover with a bandage. If no adverse reaction occurs after a few days, it should be safe to use more widely.
Oatmeal: A Soothing Bath Additive for Psoriasis Relief
Oatmeal has long been recognized for its skin-soothing properties, making it a popular ingredient in many health and beauty products. For those with psoriasis, oatmeal can offer relief from itching and inflammation.
How can oatmeal be used to soothe psoriasis symptoms? The most effective way to use oatmeal for psoriasis relief is through an oatmeal bath. This method allows the soothing properties of oatmeal to come into contact with large areas of affected skin.
Preparing an Oatmeal Bath for Psoriasis
- Take a clean leg of pantyhose or a muslin bag.
- Fill it with about half a cup of dry oats.
- Tie off the top securely.
- Drop the oat-filled bag into your bathwater.
- Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes.
This method allows you to enjoy the benefits of an oatmeal bath without leaving your tub full of soggy oats.
Are there any precautions to consider when using oatmeal baths for psoriasis? While oatmeal baths can be very soothing, they may also have a drying effect on the skin. Since psoriasis is inherently a dry skin condition, it’s important to follow up your oatmeal bath with a good moisturizer to prevent further drying of the skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A Traditional Remedy for Psoriasis Itch
Apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for various skin conditions for centuries. For psoriasis sufferers, it may offer relief from itching, one of the most bothersome symptoms of the condition.
How does apple cider vinegar help with psoriasis? The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar may help balance the skin’s pH level, potentially reducing itching and irritation. Some users also report that it helps soften psoriasis scales, making them easier to remove.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar Safely for Psoriasis
- Always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to the skin.
- Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water.
- Apply the diluted solution to affected areas using a cotton ball.
- Avoid applying to any areas with open cuts or cracks in the skin.
- Do not leave the solution on for more than 10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly after application.
Why is it important to limit the application time of apple cider vinegar? Leaving apple cider vinegar on the skin for too long, even when diluted, can lead to further drying and irritation. This can potentially exacerbate psoriasis symptoms rather than relieve them.
Aloe Vera: Nature’s Soothing Gel for Psoriasis
Aloe vera is renowned for its skin-healing properties, making it a popular natural remedy for various skin conditions, including psoriasis. This succulent plant contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
What makes aloe vera beneficial for psoriasis? Aloe vera gel contains several compounds that can help soothe irritated skin:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Aloe vera can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis plaques.
- Moisturizing effects: The gel can help hydrate dry, flaky skin often seen in psoriasis.
- Cooling sensation: Many users report a soothing, cooling effect when applied to irritated skin.
- Potential healing promotion: Some studies suggest aloe vera may help speed up skin healing.
How should aloe vera be used for psoriasis relief? Pure aloe vera gel can be applied directly to psoriasis plaques. Gently massage a small amount into the affected areas two to three times daily. For best results, look for products containing at least 0.5% pure aloe vera.
Can aloe vera be used on all types of psoriasis? While generally safe for most skin types, it’s always best to do a patch test before applying aloe vera to larger areas. If you have very sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, consult with a dermatologist before using aloe vera as a psoriasis treatment.
Essential Considerations When Using Natural Remedies for Psoriasis
While natural ingredients and oils can offer relief from psoriasis symptoms, it’s crucial to approach their use with caution and awareness. Here are some key points to keep in mind when incorporating natural remedies into your psoriasis management routine:
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Why is it important to consult with a doctor before trying natural remedies? Even natural ingredients can interact with medications or cause unexpected reactions. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance on which remedies are safe to try and how they might complement your current treatment plan.
Patch Testing
How should you perform a patch test for natural remedies? Apply a small amount of the diluted oil or ingredient to a small area of skin, such as the inside of your forearm. Cover with a bandage and wait 24-48 hours. If no irritation occurs, it’s likely safe to use on larger areas.
Gradual Introduction
Why is it advisable to introduce natural remedies gradually? Starting with small amounts and gradually increasing usage allows you to monitor your skin’s reaction and minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Combination Therapies
Can natural remedies be combined with prescribed treatments? In many cases, yes. Natural remedies can often complement medical treatments, potentially enhancing their effectiveness. However, always consult your doctor before combining treatments.
Monitoring Progress
How long should you try a natural remedy before assessing its effectiveness? Dr. Robin Evans recommends giving natural remedies about a month to see if they lead to any improvement in psoriasis symptoms. Look for decreases in itching, burning, and overall skin appearance.
Potential for Allergic Reactions
What signs indicate an allergic reaction to a natural remedy? Watch for increased redness, itching, swelling, or the development of a rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider.
Quality of Products
Why is the quality of natural products important for psoriasis treatment? High-quality, pure products are less likely to contain additives or contaminants that could irritate sensitive skin. Look for reputable brands and, when possible, opt for organic options.
Holistic Approach
How can natural remedies fit into a holistic psoriasis management plan? Natural remedies can be part of a comprehensive approach to managing psoriasis that includes medical treatments, dietary changes, stress management, and lifestyle modifications. This multi-faceted approach often yields the best results in managing psoriasis symptoms.
By keeping these considerations in mind, individuals with psoriasis can safely explore natural remedies as part of their overall treatment strategy. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so patience and careful observation are key when trying new natural treatments for psoriasis.
Best Natural Ingredients and Oils for Psoriasis
Can coconut oil help psoriasis? What about olive oil or oatmeal? Read on for more about these and other natural remedies that may help relieve itchiness, dryness, and irritation.
By Mikel TheobaldMedically Reviewed by Ross Radusky, MD
Reviewed:
Medically Reviewed
9 Best Natural Ingredients For Psoriasis
The next time you stock up on essential oils at the pharmacy or make a supermarket run, you may come across one or more natural remedies that may ease minor symptoms of psoriasis.
These DIY therapies can’t substitute for psoriasis treatments prescribed by your physician, but they might help your skin feel less dry, inflamed, and itchy.
“Medications can work separately from natural remedies or as part of a combination or adjunct treatment,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a dermatologist in South Florida. “I don’t believe it has to be one or the other.
”
It’s important to check with your doctor before you try any home remedy for psoriasis, since even so-called natural ingredients can interact with medications or irritate sensitive skin.
To see if an ingredient or essential oil triggers an allergic reaction, perform a patch test: Apply a small amount to an area of skin such as the inside of your forearm, then cover with a Band-Aid. “After a few days, if you don’t experience any negative reactions, then it would be safe to apply to larger areas of the body,” says Robin Evans, MD, a physician at Southern Connecticut Dermatology in Stamford.
Dr. Evans recommends using small amounts on psoriasis areas to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction before you apply more liberally.
She says she would give natural remedies a month or so to see whether they lead to any improvement in psoriasis symptoms. “If they’re working, there should be a decrease in itching and burning,” she says. If they aren’t helping, you can try them a second time in combination with another remedy — “as long as there are no untoward effects,” she advises.
The ingredients and essential oils here might be worth a try to help ease your psoriasis symptoms.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Derived from a plant native to Australia, tea tree oil is an anti-inflammatory used to treat conditions ranging from nail fungus and athlete’s foot to psoriasis, says Jennifer Burns, NMD, a naturopathic doctor and researcher in traditional medicine at the Burns Integrative Wellness Center in Phoenix.
To use, mix 1 part tea tree oil to 10 parts olive oil, then dab on affected areas with a cotton ball.
Some people are allergic to tea tree oil, so be sure to perform a patch test before applying.
2.
Olive Oil
Olive oil can be a great moisturizer; dab some on your elbows, scalp, or anywhere you have psoriasis plaques.Juan Moyano/Stocksy; Everyday Health
High in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, olive oil appears to ease psoriasis symptoms in multiple ways.
Olive oil is a great moisturizer that does double duty as an anti-inflammatory to calm irritated skin.
Apply a small amount to your scalp, elbows, or anywhere you have psoriasis plaques, says Dr. Burns.
Or, for a soothing full-body soak, add 2 teaspoons (tsp) of warmed olive oil to your bath water.
Evans notes that olive oil is also an important part of an anti-psoriasis eating plan. A growing body of research (such as a study in a 2018 issue of JAMA Dermatology) suggests that the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes extra-virgin olive oil, can help prevent psoriasis from getting worse.
3.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can help counter dryness caused by psoriasis by trapping moisture in the skin, says Burns. Gently rub a small amount on psoriasis plaques, as you would any moisturizer. You can also use the oil on the scalp to help loosen psoriasis scales.
4.
Oatmeal
Found in many health and beauty products, oatmeal helps relieve the itchiness and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
To prepare an oatmeal bath that won’t leave your tub full of soggy bits, add a half-cup of dry oats to a leg of pantyhose, knot the top, and drop into the water before you step in.
Evans warns, “Oatmeal baths are useful to calm itching, but they also can be very drying, which may exacerbate psoriasis — inherently a very dry condition.”
5.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help calm psoriasis itch, but Burns warns that it’s important to dilute the vinegar properly before using.
She recommends mixing one part apple cider vinegar to two parts water. Dab the diluted vinegar onto your skin or scalp, avoiding any areas that are cracked or bleeding.
Be sure not to leave the solution on longer than 10 minutes; otherwise, it might make your skin even drier and more irritated.
6.
Aloe Vera
“I love this plant,” Burns says. “It helps reduce inflammation and can speed up healing time.” Its many uses, she says, include soothing minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, thanks to its strong antibacterial, antiseptic, and fungicidal properties.
Aloe vera also promotes cell growth and acts as a detoxifying agent.
Researchers have found that compounds in aloe vera help skin retain moisture, which promotes healing.
You can use pure aloe gel or look for creams with about 0.5 percent aloe content. Apply two to three times a day to soften skin and calm psoriasis flares.
7.
Baking Soda
Baking soda isn’t just for cooking and cleaning: You can use it in your self-care routine for everything from whitening teeth to relieving the itchiness of psoriasis.
Burns recommends mixing 1 tsp of baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste that you can apply to psoriasis patches.
Use with caution: “Baking soda can be helpful for itching, but like oatmeal it can be very drying,” Evans says.
8.
Dead Sea Salt
People travel from all over the world to float in the Dead Sea, located on the border between Israel and Jordan. This body of water is 10 times saltier than the ocean and rich in minerals with purported healing powers.
To relieve psoriasis itchiness and irritation at home, add Dead Sea salts (or substitute Epsom salts) to a warm bath, then soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
Be sure to apply moisturizer afterward to prevent dryness.
9.
Pine Bark Extract
The pine bark supplement Pycnogenol has antioxidant properties, Burns says, which may bolster the effects of your other psoriasis treatments.
Just be sure to check with your dermatologist before adding pine bark to your beauty or supplement routine.
10.
Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregon Grape)
This is a powerful antimicrobial herb. A review of clinical trials published in December 2018 in the Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology found that in five out of seven research studies, mahonia led to an improvement in psoriasis symptoms, with minimal side effects.
Look for a cream containing 10 percent mahonia and apply it to any mild or moderate psoriasis plaques.
Additional reporting by Beth W. Orenstein.
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Olive Oil Benefits for Psoriasis and other mild skin conditions
Olive Oil Benefits for Psoriasis and other mild skin conditions
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By Ali Capron
Psoriasis is a painful skin condition that affects over 3 million people each year by causing sore patches to appear on the skin. It is brought on by an overactive immune system, and is often treated with creams made of salicylic acid or steroids, though many people prefer natural treatments. One of the best natural treatments for Psoriasis is olive oil.
Why Is Olive Oil A Good Gift For People With Psoriasis?
If you have family members or friends with Psoriasis, holiday gifting is a great way to help them. Olive oil may seem like a simple gift at first, but high-end olive oil products like Olivella Body Oil can be both thoughtful and appreciated.
Relaxing body oils, moisturizers, and lotions made from olive oil can make for a luxurious, spa-like experience, while still benefiting skin that is affected by Psoriasis. Olive oil is also a great eco-friendly option, and makes for a natural and chemical-free present. Natural and eco-friendly options are both on trend and beneficial to those with sensitive skin. They lack harmful chemicals, which can irritate Psoriasis further.
Why Is Olive Oil Beneficial For Psoriasis?
Olive oil is an anti-inflammatory and a natural moisturizer. It soothes dry skin and helps to minimize swelling in sore areas. The culprits behind these positive effects are fatty acids and Vitamin E. Their skin-benefiting properties are naturally found in olive oil.
Olive oil being an effective treatment for Psoriasis was discovered by mistake. It was discovered during a study on olive oil’s effects on cardiovascular health when a patient in the study recovered from 80% of his Psoriasis symptoms during the trial.
The study showed olive oil to be as effective, if not more effective, than medication for mild to moderate Psoriasis symptoms.
How Is Olive Oil Used As A Psoriasis Treatment?
Typically, Olive Oil is used to treat Psoriasis topically. The oil can be warmed up slightly in a microwave or on the stovetop. It can then be directly and generously applied to the skin with a soft towel and left to soak in. This allows dry skin that is affected by Psoriasis to find great relief. The oil should never be overheated during this process, as hot oil can worsen Psoriasis symptoms. The warming step is simply done for application comfort. Topically applying olive oil not only helps to relieve symptoms, but it helps to remove dead skin left by Psoriasis patches as well. These patches are often painful to remove, so olive oil aiding in the process is a welcome quality.
Taking olive oil internally is an option as well, according to recent studies. Experts believe the link between healthy skin and olive oil consumption could be from Oleocanthal, which is an anti-inflammatory compound that is naturally found in the oil.
The anti-inflammatory calms the skin, even when it is taken by mouth.
Olive oil is a natural way to soothe and improve the often painful skin that people with Psoriasis experience. It’s moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties bring calming and soothing benefits. Whether the oil is used straight or as a part of a luxurious moisturizer, it is both a great gift and a solid natural treatment option.
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Folk remedies for psoriasis: recommendations from doctors
Folk remedies for psoriasis: recommendations from doctors
Psoriasis is treated quite successfully with traditional methods, including topical ointments and gels that are applied to the skin. Be prepared for your doctor to recommend effective topical treatments for this skin condition.
It is important to understand that there are also many natural ingredients that can help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. We present to your attention 9agents that soothe the skin during an exacerbation of psoriasis. Just check with your doctor before trying anything new. Even natural ingredients can interact with other medications and irritate sensitive skin.
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree grows in Australia. Tea tree oil is used as an anti-inflammatory agent that helps in the treatment of:
- psoriasis;
- mycosis;
- nail fungus;
- acne.
Jennifer Burns, MD Naturopath at the BienEtre Center in Phoenix, Arizona (USA), talks about this.
Tea tree oil is a strong antifungal agent, so it must be mixed when applied to the skin. This is warned by Carolyn Dean, MD, an expert in herbal medicines from Kihei, Hawaii, (USA).
Dr. Dean recommends mixing 1 part tea tree oil with 10 parts olive oil (1:10 ratio) and applying this mixture to the affected areas with a cotton pad. If you are treating scalp psoriasis (on the scalp), add 10 drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing off.
2. Olive oil
The olive oil you keep in your kitchen cabinet can do a double job. It is also anti-inflammatory, and at the same time soothes the skin. Thanks to its high fatty acid content and vitamin E, extra virgin olive oil is an excellent moisturizer for dehydrated skin.
A study published in July 2014 in the medical journal Advances in Skin & Wound Care found that olive oil helps even with burn wounds.
To reduce the symptoms of psoriasis, apply a small amount of olive oil:
- to the scalp;
- for elbows;
- on the affected areas where there are plaques.
This will help soften dead skin that has been affected by psoriasis. Then dead cells are better removed, says Dr. Burns. If the patient wants to improve the condition of the skin all over the body, it is recommended to add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the bath water.
3. Pine bark extract
According to a study published in March 2014 in the journal Panminerva Medica, Pycnogenol, a pine bark supplement, can be an excellent adjunct to the treatment of psoriasis.
Pine bark has antioxidant properties and is used in the treatment of acne. In addition, it slows down the signs of aging.
In addition, Burns says that such a supplement can reduce the inflammatory process on the skin in the presence of a diagnosis of psoriasis.
Talk to your dermatologist before using a pine bark extract supplement.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil moisturizes dry skin and is often used in hair care products. In addition, it is used in the fight against psoriasis. This is because coconut oil helps retain moisture, Burns explains. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your skin like a moisturizer on your face.
Coconut oil can also be used in the treatment of the scalp to reduce the appearance of psoriasis scaly (another name for psoriasis).
5. Oatmeal
Oatmeal, which contains gluten, is found in many medical and cosmetic products. It helps to relieve itching and redness of dry skin due to the development of psoriasis.
But if you start thinking about a bathtub with oatmeal floating in it and unpleasant images come to mind, don’t worry! There is an easy way to take a bath with benefit and pleasure. Burns suggests adding half a cup of dry oats to a stocking or thin pantyhose, tying it off, placing it in a bag, and adding it to a bath of warm water.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a useful remedy that relieves itching when used properly. If you leave it on your skin for too long or dilute it the wrong way, the acidity of the vinegar can dry out your skin and cause more irritation, Burns says.
The expert recommends mixing one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water (1:2 ratio). Apply the mixture on the face and body or on the scalp and leave it for a maximum of 10 minutes, then rinse. Just don’t use apple cider vinegar on burned areas of the skin, or where blood has come out.
7. Aloe Vera
“I love this plant,” Burns says. “Aloe vera helps reduce inflammation and speeds up the healing process,” she adds.
According to the expert, there are many options where aloe is used. They produce products based on this plant to relieve pain after a burn. Aloe perfectly heals small cuts and scratches due to its properties:
- antibacterial;
- antiseptic;
- antifungal.
Aloe Vera promotes cell growth and acts as a detoxifier (removes toxins, in other words).
You can use pure aloe-based gel or look for creams with about 0.5 percent aloe. Patients with psoriasis apply an aloe vera cream two to three times a day to help soften the skin and soothe inflammation.
8. Baking soda
Baking soda is used for more than just cooking and cleaning the house. It can be used in teeth whitening and peeling if the skin is dry. The antifungal properties of baking soda make it an effective remedy to reduce the itchy skin that occurs when psoriasis flares up.
Burns recommends mixing 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste. It can be applied to the affected areas of the skin.
9. Dead Sea Salt
For thousands of years people have traveled to the Dead Sea, known for its healing properties. This sea contains 10 times more salt than the ocean and is rich in minerals.
At home, in the treatment of psoriasis, Dead Sea salt (epsom salt) relieves itching and redness of the skin. To do this, add salt to a warm bath and stay in it for 10-15 minutes. Salt helps to soften the scales that cover the plaques in psoriasis, and then they will peel off better. After taking a bath, be sure to apply a moisturizer.
Folk remedies are often quite effective for various conditions, including psoriasis. They help both on their own and against the background of standard treatment. It is advisable for the patient at the beginning of therapy to try the topical cream or folk remedies listed above on one or two affected areas to see improvement or deterioration of the skin condition, and check for allergies. It is better to consult a dermatologist if you are seeing one.
Psoriasis
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory disease that affects the skin, joints and nails.
The causes of psoriasis are not fully understood and are the subject of research. In psoriasis, the immune system does not function properly, leading to an overproduction of skin cells. Skin cells grow too quickly on the surface of the skin, forming raised, red, scaly patches called plaques. These plaques cause itching and pain. Foci of psoriasis, as a rule, appear on the scalp, limbs and lower back, but their appearance on other parts of the body is not excluded.
The current view is that the immune system, genetics and environment (eg stress, cold weather, etc.) all play a significant role in the development of psoriasis. The result is skin irritation accompanied by an overproduction of skin cells.
The cells of the top layer of the skin usually mature and renew themselves every 28-30 days. In psoriasis, cells can mature for 3-6 days, then they move to the surface of the skin and accumulate there.
Currently, psoriasis is considered a hereditary multifactorial disease: the disease is based on not one, but a whole range of causes – immunological changes, metabolic disorders, concomitant endocrine and neurological disorders.
At the same time, we can say for sure: psoriasis is not an infectious, and therefore not a contagious disease.
The causes of psoriasis have not yet been finally found. There are various theories on this.
According to one theory, there are two types of psoriasis:
- Type I psoriasis is caused by inherited damage to the immune system. This form of psoriasis affects about 65% of people, and the disease manifests itself at a young age, from 18 to 25 years.
- Type II psoriasis occurs in people over 40 years of age. With this type, psoriasis is not inherited and is not associated with breakdowns in the cells of the immune system. Moreover, unlike type I psoriasis, which prefers the skin, type II psoriasis often affects the nails and joints.
According to another theory, the cause of psoriasis is solely immune disorders caused by various factors: it can be stress, or infectious diseases, or cold climate, or malnutrition. For example, it has been noted that alcohol can provoke an exacerbation of psoriasis – this is especially true for beer, champagne, and spirits.
The use of products containing vinegar, pepper, chocolate also worsens the course of the disease and can exacerbate psoriasis. According to this theory, psoriasis is a systemic disease. This means that with serious disorders in the immune system, the process can spread to other organs and tissues, such as joints. As a result
Symptoms of psoriasis
Symptoms of psoriasis are red, inflamed, scaly patches accompanied by intense itching. Such spots (plaques) are more often located on the skin of the scalp, knees and elbow joints, in the lower back and in places of skin folds. In about a quarter of patients, the nails are affected.
Depending on the seasonality of relapses (exacerbation of the disease), there are three types of psoriasis: winter, summer, indefinite. The most common type of winter psoriasis.
During an exacerbation of psoriasis on the hands, knees, head, as well as in the lower back and in places of skin folds, they appear in the form of reddish plaques.
Their sizes vary from the head of a pin to vast areas the size of a palm or more.
Eruptions are usually accompanied by scaling and painful itching. In the process of peeling, superficial scales are easily sloughed off, remaining denser, located in depth (hence the second name of psoriasis – psoriasis). Sometimes cracks and suppurations appear in the area of the affected areas of the skin.
Progressive psoriasis is characterized by the so-called Koebner phenomenon: the development of psoriatic plaques in places of injuries or skin scratches.
In about a quarter of patients, the nails are affected. In this case, dotted depressions and spotting of the nail plates occur. In addition, nails can thicken and crumble.
In the summer, under the influence of sunlight, in patients with the winter form of psoriasis, the symptoms weaken, and sometimes disappear altogether. Patients with the summer form of psoriasis, on the contrary, are advised to avoid exposure to the sun, as it worsens the course of the disease.
Products for the care and cleansing of skin with psoriasis.
Speaking of skin cleansing, soaps with a high degreasing effect, and even more so liquid soaps that contain active surface degreasing agents, are strongly discouraged in psoriasis. Alternatively, you can wash your skin with non-irritating oils. Experience has shown that lotions with a liposomal structure containing fumaric acid are a very good recommendation for this problem.
As far as daily skin care is concerned, particular attention must be paid to providing the skin with sufficient fatty substances, which can be achieved by using products with pure oils or emulsions.
However, when using emulsions, be aware that emulsifiers can cause counterproductive effects as well as cleaning products. It is recommended to use creams containing water, oil and urea and, if possible, with the least amount of emulsifiers or without them at all.
Koko dermaviduals DMS base creams are an example of emulsifier-free creams that are used in combination with pharmaceutical active concentrates for the dermatological treatment of psoriasis.
Their main advantage for the beautician is that they provide a seamless transition from medical therapy by a dermatologist to cosmetic treatment and prevention using the same base cream. The main goal here is physiologically adequate skin care.
Active concentrates:
The following active concentrates can be included in skin care creams:
- Olive oil
- Jojoba oil
- Shea Butter
- Linoleic acid
- phosphatidylcholine (stabilizes the skin barrier)
- urea (moisturizes, relieves itching)
- D-panthenol (supports the healing process)
- Vitamin A (accelerates skin regeneration)
- Vitamin E (skin care ingredient)
- Aloe Vera (antimicrobial and moisturizing)
- Hamamelis (supports the healing process, has astringent effect)
There is a wide range of causes regarding the genesis of psoriasis, so each individual case must be studied separately and determined by the appropriate choice of active agent and their combinations.