You have a lot of options for treating your psoriasis. Along with medications, there are simple ways to fight flares and ease your symptoms.
There's more research on psoriasis drugs, which are closely regulated by the FDA, than alternative treatments. But if you find a solution that works for you, it could be a great way to make your skin feel better.
Sunlight
Scientists aren't sure how it helps, but many people say their symptoms improve when they get a little sun on a regular basis.
But don't overdo it. Sunburns can make patches worse. Ask your doctor how much time you should spend catching rays. When you go out, slather sunscreen on areas that don't have psoriasis on them. Make sure the screen is SPF 30 or higher and protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to bother your skin.
Alternative Skin Treatments
There are many things you can put on your skin to relieve itching, burning, and redness:
Aloe vera: It soothes skin and may improve psoriasis, although scientists haven't studied it enough to know for sure. Look for creams or gels that have 0.5% aloe. Steer clear of the tablet form. It can be dangerous.
Tea tree oil: It's sometimes added to shampoos and may help scalp psoriasis.
Oat extracts: These can be found in many skin care products. They may ease itching and cut redness. Soaking in an oatmeal bath may also help.
Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts: They can remove scales and relieve itching. Add them to a warm bath and soak for about 15 minutes. Use a lotion or cream to return moisture to your skin afterward.
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Diet and Supplements
Some people feel certain foods trigger their psoriasis. It's hard to prove or disprove these claims. Scientists don't have much hard evidence on how eating habits affect the skin condition. But most experts say it's a good idea to be skeptical.
If you want to see how something affects your psoriasis, make small changes and keep track of what happens. The best approach is to eat a wide range of healthy foods, including lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Some people have found that supplements -- including fish oil, milk thistle, vitamin D, and oregano oil -- have improved their condition. There's not much evidence showing these work, though. And remember, the FDA doesn't regulate supplements as closely as medications.
Check with your doctor before you give them a try. She can let you know if they're safe and can explain how they might affect the other drugs you're taking.
Ease Your Stress
It can trigger a new outbreak and make an existing one worse. Zapping stress won't replace your medicines, but it may make them work better. Try these methods:
Meditation: It focuses your attention to quiet your mind. A few studies suggest it can improve psoriasis when practiced along with traditional treatments.
Yoga: People have used it as a stress buster for thousands of years. If it helps you relax, it's worth a shot.
Massage: It can ease stress, too. Let your masseuse know ahead of time about your psoriasis, or find one who has experience working with the condition.
It makes sense to be both optimistic and skeptical when it comes to alternative treatments for psoriasis.
Keep your doctor in the loop about any remedies you try.