Ways To Safely Remove Psoriasis Patches
In this article
The most common — and uncomfortable — symptom of psoriasis is patches of thick, red skin. Theyre often covered with white or silvery scales. You can remove these flakes.
Taking off the dead skin helps medications and ointments work better. It can also help you feel better about how you look. But you need to do it safely to avoid pain, infection, and bleeding.
1. Use an exfoliating acid. Applied to the skin, products with these acids work by weakening the bonds between skin cells. This causes the outer layer to shed, which softens and removes scales. You can buy creams, lotions, gels, ointments, foams, and shampoos with these acids. Theyre available over the counter or in stronger doses by prescription. Side effects include irritation, stinging, and burning.
Some used for psoriasis include:
Salicylic acid: Also found in acne medicines, its one of the most common treatments for psoriasis. By softening a protein in your skin called keratin, salicylic acid helps psoriasis scales come off faster. Make sure to follow your doctors orders when you apply it. If too much is absorbed into your body, it can cause health problems. You shouldnt apply it to large areas of skin or leave it on for long periods of time. And children shouldnt use products that contain it at all.
Alpha-hydroxy acids: This category includes glycolic and lactic acids. They may be as effective as salicylic acid, but gentler on the skin.
Urea: This thins and moisturizes the skin.
How Do You Stop Psoriasis From Spreading
Treatments to Stop Psoriasis from Spreading
Dreft Pure Gentleness Laundry Detergent
Dreft Pure Gentleness is a hypoallergenic laundry detergent from Dreft, the #1 pediatrician-recommended baby detergent. Its gentle, plant-based formula is made from 75% plant-based ingredients, so you do not need to compromise when cleaning messes left behind by your little one. Specially formulated to be fragrance free with 0% added dyes chlorine, phosphates, or brighteners, it gently cleanses fabrics, making it perfect from the very first wash. Dreft Pure Gentleness is handy throughout all stages of motherhood, from the very first days to the first giggles, first steps, and many more great memories. This liquid laundry detergent for babies works in all washing machines, including high efficiency and standard .
Procter & Gamble
Read Also: Over The Counter Medication For Scalp Psoriasis
Moisturisers To Compliment Psoriasis Treatment Including Psoriasis On Face
You want to use as rich a moisturiser as possible. Look for a product with no added fragrances and as few ingredients as possible. A pure oil product is ideal.
QED recommends:
For Psoriasis on Face: Ultra Sensitive Face Balm is the best moisturiser for Psoriasis on Face – Its a rich, unscented balm that absorbs quickly to deeply hydrate and soothe without pushing into breakouts.
Both can be used twice daily as a day and night moisturiser and can be used as a relief balm in between.
Zelens Provitamin D Treatment Drops
As many psoriasis sufferers will be aware, a hit of vitamin D can improve the condition of the skin no end, but living on our soggy isle, not to mention the dangers associated with UVA and UVB exposure, means that sunning yourself as a curative measure isnt always either possible or advisable. Give your skins vitamin D synthesis a boost instead in the healing guise of this silky serum, designed to boost barrier function, restore much needed lipids and protect skin from external aggressors that can make psoriasis look and feel worse. Apply morning and evening to calm, strengthen and seal in precious moisture and nutrients. Not cheap , but has been known to add a serious edge to the skincare arsenals of those with sensitised and compromised skin.
Don’t Miss: Salicylic Acid For Psoriasis Reviews
Tide + Downy Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent
Developed specifically for people with sensitive skin, Tide + Downy Free is a dermatologist-recommended liquid laundry detergent that provides tough stain removal while being gentle on your skin. Recognized by the National Eczema Association and the National Psoriasis Foundation , Tide’s hypoallergenic, liquid laundry detergent gives you the amazing clean you expect, without the use of irritants, such as dyes and perfumes. All of this results in a safe and worry-free laundry experience and silky smooth clothes.
Procter & Gamble
Myth : The Plaques Can Be Treated At Home With A Loofah And A Good Moisturizer
While some lotions and creams may help with mild cases, no amount of exfoliating is going to help psoriasisand often makes it worse, says Graber. Many of my patients think they can get rid of the flakes themselves, but there just arent any good OTC remedies.
Natural remedies, too, will likely be ineffective at treating even mild cases of the condition, says Rieder. Theres a little bit of interesting research on green tea, and some innovations happening with cannabinoids, but right now the data just isnt there, he says. Effective treatment usually requires the help of a dermatologist. Prescription treatments make the most significant difference, Graber says.
Recommended Reading: What Does Beginning Psoriasis Look Like
How To Make Your Own Epsom Salt Scrub
Many people use Epsom salt scrubs to exfoliate and remove dead skin.
But for those with psoriasis, using an Epsom salt scrub may irritate sensitive skin and trigger a flare. For that reason, people with psoriasis are often advised to avoid exfoliating scrubs.
Before using a salt scrub, talk with your dermatologist. If its deemed safe for you to try, you can make it yourself at home.
Combine 1 1/3 cups Epsom salts with 2/3 cup melted coconut, almond, or olive oil. With your dermatologists approval, you can also add essential oils for a soothing scent.
2005 study suggested that bathing in Dead Sea salt solution improved skin barrier function and hydration and reduced inflammation in people with dry skin. The study authors attribute this result to the Dead Sea salts being rich in magnesium.
A 2012 review of studies found that Dead Sea treatments do benefit psoriasis. The authors of this review credit ultraviolet radiation in the Dead Sea plus Dead Sea water balneotherapy for these skin improvements.
In a 2019 survey of the use of complementary and alternative medicine in people with psoriasis, 17 percent of male respondents and 7.8 percent of female respondents reported using Dead Sea salts to successfully help manage their condition.
And a
How Can You Use Salicylic Acid For Skin Care
Follow the instructions on the product or prescription label carefully.
When you first start using a salicylic gel, cream, lotion, or ointment, apply only a small amount to a single patch of psoriasis. Try this for several days to see how your body reacts.
At first, you might find that symptoms such as dryness and itchiness worsen as your skin adjusts to the treatment. If you dont experience any significant side effects, you can begin using the product as directed.
Apply salicylic acid to patches of psoriasis as needed up to several times per day unless otherwise directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Note that it may take a few weeks before you see an improvement.
You should avoid applying salicylic acid to more than 20 percent of your body surface area, as it is absorbed through the skin and too much can cause side effects. In addition, steer clear of your eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals.
If you specific concerns about using salicylic acid and your skin, routines, or health, its best to speak to a dctor or pharmacist.
, no randomized controlled studies have evaluated the use of salicylic acid alone in the treatment of psoriasis.
Most studies have instead investigated its use alongside other treatments, particularly topical corticosteroids, anthralin, and immunomodulators.
Read Also: Que Es Psoriasis En La Piel Imagenes
Refreshing Lemon And Olive Oil Scrub
Thanks to its high fatty acid and vitamin E content, olive oil makes a great moisturizer for dehydrated skin partnered with lemon that can get rid of dead skin cells. The theory is that it might also alleviate skin patches attributed to psoriasis and dandruff.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup of olive oil
- juice of one lemon
- zest from two lemons
- a couple drops of essential oil
- a jar with lid
How to make your scrub: First, combine sugar and olive oil. Add lemon juice and zest. Add a few drops of essential oil . Scoop into jar and seal lid.
Abundant Natural Health Ocean Soothe Lotion
Ocean Soothe is proudly Australian own, grown and made. Ocean Soothe is specifically formulated to relieve itchy, dry, irritated skin conditions. With 160% higher concentration of salts than the Dead Sea, our all-natural Ocean Soothe Lotion calms inflammation and halts bacterial growth whilst hydrating the skin. Ocean Soothe combines minerally enriched seawater with Aloe vera and Olive oil to hydrate, soothe and moisturise your skin. Abundant Natural Health uses 100% natural ingredients.
Perricone MD
Read Also: Psoriasis And Eczema Treatment Center
What Salicylic Acid Concentration Is Okay For Psoriasis
The recommended concentration of salicylic acid for psoriasis ranges from 2 to 10 percent. Products with higher concentrations may only be available with a prescription.
In addition, keep in mind that while higher concentrations may be more effective at removing scales, they are also more likely to cause side effects. They may even worsen your psoriasis. Your doctor can help you find the right concentration.
- Price: $$$
- Salicylic acid: 2% concentration
SkinMedicas facial cleanser includes both alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to boost exfoliating action. Reviewers say it keeps their skin feeling smooth and clear.
Soaps For Psoriasis To Make At Home
You can try making remedies for yourself at home, because, after all, who knows your skin and what it can handle better than yourself.
Think of stocking ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, essential oils, and the likes. This way you can experiment with the different types of ingredients youll find in many psoriasis and eczema remedies until you find a solution that might work for you.
You May Like: What Works Best For Psoriasis
Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner
Dermarest® Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner with 3% salicylic acid and zinc complex is specially formulated to relieve the symptoms associated with scalp psoriasis. This fragrance-free shampoo plus conditioner removes and controls scalp build-up, soothes irritation, eliminates itching and restores moisture. Dermatologist Tested.
Dermarest
T/gel Daily Control 2
Our dermatologist-recommended formula fights dandruff while providing conditioner benefits for soft, healthy-looking hair. Itâs developed with Pyrithione Zinc to help relieve itching and flaking. This 2-in-1 with Vitamin E helps moisturize both hair and scalp, and contains wheat proteins that are known to nourish and help protect hair from further damage. Gentle enough to use daily, this non-drying formula cleanses the scalp and leaves you with soft, manageable hair in one simple step.
Dyson
Also Check: Salicylic Acid Cream For Psoriasis
La Roche Posay Cicaplast Lips
Flaking around the lips is a particularly unpleasant manifestation of psoriasis, and the situation escalates when flavoured balms make things worse. This fragrance-free barrier balm helps to prevent chapping and cracking while smoothing skin on the lips. Shea butter and beeswax condition and give the balm staying power, while humectant panthenol draws moisture to the lips and keeps it there. For a therapeutic skin protector, it also has the very desirable added benefit of making lips look plump and sheeny too. If youve got a killer lipstick youve been wanted to break out but your lips havent been playing ball, prime them with this first.
Myth : Psoriasis Is Caused By Things Youre Doing To Your Skin
Graber sees many patients blaming themselves. They think the inflammation is a result of not showering enough or using the wrong skincare product, she says. In cases where psoriasis causes redness and flakiness of the scalp, patients tend to assume theyre shampooing too muchor not enough. But psoriasis is not a result of poor hygiene or using the wrong type of product. While the exact causes arent fully understood, its thought to be an immune system problem that causes the skin to regenerate at faster-than-normal rates, resulting in those scales and red patches.
We know that patients have a biological predisposition to develop this condition, and environmental factors, like an infection or skin injury, may trigger a flare-up, says Graber. But psoriasis is absolutely not the patients fault. Changing the bed sheets, trying new detergents, and switching up a skincare routine are unlikely to make much of a difference.
Recommended Reading: Topical Solution For Scalp Psoriasis
What Does Psoriasis Look Like
There are different types of psoriasis, and varying degrees of severity, although most suffer from a condition called plaque psoriasis tell-tale signs include those aforementioned raised, red patches that can take on a silvery appearance, and may feel itchy and sore. Other types span from inverse psoriasis, where patches of red skin become ever-more inflamed thanks to sweat and friction, to nail psoriasis think unusual nail growth and pitting. No type of psoriasis is contagious.
While, for some, psoriasis is found solely on the scalp and feels little more than some bad dandruff, others experience patches all over their bodies and it can be quite debilitating, both physically and mentally. As a guide, the USAs National Psoriasis Foundation say that its mild if it covers less than three per cent of the body moderate at three to 10 per cent and severe if it covers in excess of 10 per cent.
Can Exfoliation Help Psoriasis
Think you have psoriasis? Youre not alone. Psoriasis is a common condition, affecting 125 million people worldwide, or a full 2-3% of the worlds population .
Psoriasis causes red, itchy patches on the body that may appear scaly . It is not contagious and is generally an inherited condition that tends to show first between the ages of 11 and 45 . It can be severely problematic for patients, even getting in the way of their daily activities. Fortunately, for those with proper treatment, its a manageable condition that, for some, can go into remission for weeks, months, or even years.
Unfortunately, psoriasis a chronic condition, meaning theres not cure though, like many diseases there are steps one can take and treatments for managing the condition.
You May Like: Can You Have More Than One Type Of Psoriasis
Tide Free And Gentle Liquid Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty Laundry Detergent
Give your clothes a brilliant clean with Tide’s perfume- and dye-free Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty 10X Free Liquid Laundry Detergent. Developed to provide your garments with a hypoallergenic clean at the microscopic level, Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty 10X Free Liquid Laundry Detergent gives you a clean you can trust while it removes both visible and invisible dirt, and remains gentle to your skin.
Procter & Gamble
Lactic Acid And Urea: Skinceuticals Body Retexturing Treatment $61
Shop now: SkinCeuticals Body Retexturing Treatment, $61
To get your daily dose of exfoliating ingredients in a single product, try this treatment, which is formulated with 17.7 percent urea and sodium lactate, a lactic acid derivative that exfoliates while helping your skin maintain moisture. It’s also got niacinamide, which strengthens the skin barrier and fights inflammation, and hyaluronic acid for an added boost of hydration. It’s designed to resurface and replenish rough, textured skin, and with such an A-plus ingredient profile, it does exactly that.
Want even more beauty intel from our editors? Join Well+Good’s group for must-know tips and tricks.
Don’t Miss: Is Turmeric Good For Psoriasis
Prosoria Psoriasis Treatment System
Prosoria is an advanced, powerful 2-step treatment system that delivers effective, long lasting psoriasis symptom relief including scaling, flaking, itching, and redness and to help prevent recurrences. Prosoria is a unique multi-action combination treatment system that works to treat the symptoms of psoriasis while conditioning, exfoliating, and moisturizing the skin. Prosoria contains maximum strength salicylic acid and a complex of skin soothing botanicals and vitamins to effectively control the symptoms of psoriasis while improving the softness and appearance of the skin. It is formulated to feel light and silky and itâs steroid free, fragrance free and paraben free.
CeraVe
Best For Elbows: Dove Dermaseries Fragrance
The elbows are another common spot where psoriasis appears, says Miller. And for that particular area, this balm can’t be beaten. Its thick enough to address the thicker skin on your elbows credit a petroleum-jelly blend thats great for any type of super dry skin, psoriasis-prone included. Still, it absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, so you can even use it in the morning before getting dressed.
Recommended Reading: Bentonite Clay For Scalp Psoriasis
Paulas Choice 2% Salicylic Acid Liquid Exfoliant
When your skins flaking like filo pastry, gentle exfoliation can help to clear your complexion and stem the urge to scratch. Rather than scrubbing skin and provoking further irritation, try a topical liquid exfoliant to sweep away build up while still preserving your skin barrier. Salicylic acid is one of the kindest acids that you can opt for, as scary as that sounds, and applying to skin with a cotton pad after cleansing will make skin feel and look healthier and provide a fresh canvas for emollients or other treatments applied afterwards, allowing them to absorb better and get to work faster. Salicylic acid is also anti-inflammatory , which is a welcome property when youre trying to mitigate the effects of psoriasis.
What Are The Clinical Features Of Facial Psoriasis
Facial psoriasis has various clinical presentations. There are three main subtypes:
- Hairline psoriasis
- An extension of scalp psoriasis beyond the hairline onto facial skin
- Bright red, thickened plaques with variable white scale
Psoriasis affecting hairline
- Patchy involvement of the hairline
- Often affects the eyelids, eyebrows, nasolabial folds and beard area
- Salmon-pink, thin plaques with bran-like scale
- Usually associated with diffuse or patchy scalp psoriasis
- Psoriasis may or may not be present at other sites
Sebopsoriasis
- Sharply demarcated, red, scaly plaques
- May affect any part of the face
- Plaques tend to be symmetrical
- Associated with psoriasis at other sites including ears, genitals, scalp, elbows, knees, and trunk
- Soreness and skin sensitivity, which are usually mild
Also Check: Is Biotin Good For Psoriasis