Two Things You Need For Great Skin!

Do you have dry, cracked skin? Does your skin have rashes and small bumps on your knees, elbows, or lower back? If you do, you’re probably dealing with psoriasis. While psoriasis shows up in different forms, many people are displeased not only with the experience but also with its appearance. From the who, what, when, where, why and how, let’s talk about psoriasis and how you can manage yours!

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that often appears in the form of dry, flaky skin or a rash. Although there is no documented cause to why people develop psoriasis, it is believed that genetics play a major role. While there are five different types of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis is the most common form which appears in bumpy, raised patches due to an accumulation of dead skin cells. While psoriasis can show up anywhere, it often forms in regions of your joints (elbows and knees) to your scalp and lower back.

Even though there is no determined marker as to whyplaque psoriasis occurs or how to prevent it, there are numerous tips on how you can manage it!

STAY HEALTHY

While staying healthy is one tip that can be used everywhere, this is definitely true for those dealing with psoriasis. Try to maintain a healthy diet and a good amount of exercise. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, smoking, drinking, and being overweight can exacerbate your psoriasis.

MONITOR YOUR NAILS AND JOINTS

Since psoriasis often appears in the joint region, you need to watch this area as well as your nails! When monitoring your joints, if you notice any stiffness or soreness, this can be a sign of psoriatic arthritis. As for your nails, ridges or a yellowish color could also be a precursor of psoriatic arthritis.

FIND PRODUCTS WITH SALICYLIC ACID AND COAL TAR

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, two products that you shouldn’t live without are salicylic acid and coal tar. The salicylic acid will act as a gentle exfoliator that will help shed the outer layer of dead skin. Just be sure to stay away from strong or highly concentrated products.

Coal tar is another great product ingredient when living with psoriasis. Since psoriasis comes about through the extremely rapid growth of skin cells, coal tar helps to slow down the growth and allow the skin to refresh itself!

There are over 125 million people around the world who are dealing with psoriasis. It’s time to stop coasting by! If you’re dealing with psoriasis, use these tips and talk to a dermatologist to help make your life easier!