Psoriasis Health Center

Skin moisturizers and psoriasis

Some psoriasis medicines, such as solutions and shampoos, can dry your skin. Use a moisturizing ointment or lotion to help keep moisture in your skin.

• Keep your skin moisturized, through proper bathing and the use of moisturizers. You will benefit most by applying an ointment, cream, or lotion within 3 minutes after your bath to seal in moisture. Otherwise, when the water evaporates, it will make your skin even drier.
• Use over-the-counter skin moisturizers after bathing. Ask your doctor which ones are most effective. Some doctors believe that petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) works well. Crisco solid vegetable oil works and is very inexpensive. Other good moisturizers are Cetaphil, Lubriderm, and Eucerin. Avoid lotions that contain alcohol, which can dry the skin and make psoriasis worse.
• Use oils in baths. Be careful, because oils make the tub slippery. After your bath, you can also apply bath oils directly to the skin as wet compresses. Some people may itch more after using a bath oil.
• Use a mild soap (such as Dove, Basis, or Neutrogena) instead of deodorant soaps or other harsh soaps (such as Camay, Lava, or Zest).