Psoriasis prevention: easy steps to do it at home

Psoriasis occurs due to immune system disorders. This disease is not contagious, but is recurrent so that it cannot be completely cured. However, you can still take various preventive steps to avoid psoriasis flares.

Variety of prevention so that psoriasis does not recur

The recurrence of psoriasis can sometimes not be predicted with certainty. However, there are several trigger factors that you can actually avoid so that psoriasis does not recur frequently. Here are various things you can do to prevent psoriasis.

1. Avoid stress

Stress and skin disease are related to one another. Not only a result, stress can also be a cause of psoriasis.

This is because the body has many nerve endings that are connected to the skin. When you are stressed, the brain's central nervous system will detect danger. When the immune system is unable to work properly, an inflammatory response occurs which causes symptoms such as itching, pain, or swelling of the skin.

Therefore, controlling stress levels is important as a prevention of psoriasis recurrence. In dealing with stress, of course you have to know in advance what things are the source and find solutions that can be done.

Try a variety of activities that can relax your body and mind, such as yoga or meditation. You can also take a moment to do various activities that make you feel in a better mood, such as light exercise, playing music, or playing with pets.

If the stress you feel has bothered you, don't hesitate to consult a psychologist.

2. Get sun exposure

Ultraviolet light is known to be an effective treatment for sufferers of this skin disease. Due to its property of reducing the growth of abnormal skin cells, artificial UV rays are often used in phototherapy such as artificial UVB or PUVA procedures.

Of course, UV rays are most easily obtained from sun exposure. As a preventive measure for psorasis, start sunbathing outdoors for about 5-15 minutes.

But remember, don't sunbathe for too long because it can burn your skin and cause sores which will actually worsen your condition. Also use sunscreen before leaving the house.

3. Take a proper shower

For people who suffer from psoriasis, bathing should not be done haphazardly. The temperature of the water used, as well as the product and how it is used, can have an impact on your skin. If it's wrong, the skin will become dry, which can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.

To prevent this, avoid bathing with hot water. Take a shower with lukewarm water and limit the time to 5-15 minutes. When using soap, apply gently by hand. Do not use tools such as a body brush or brush shower puff because it will irritate the skin.

Also make sure you choose products with gentle ingredients that are specially made such as soap for sensitive skin. Deodorant or textured soap scrub strongly discouraged.

4. Use a moisturizer

Using a moisturizer is very important in psoriasis prevention. Apart from keeping the skin moisturized, moisturizers can also help reduce symptoms such as redness and itching.

Moisturizing skin products come in the form of creams or oils. For those who have very dry skin, using oil may be more appropriate. The reason is, oil has a longer staying power than cream or lotion.

Please note, not all types of moisturizer are safe for use on psoriasis skin. Therefore, adjust the product to your skin condition, choose a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and contains safe ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin D, and salicylic acid. If you are not sure about your choice, it's a good idea to ask for recommendations from your doctor.

After bathing, dry your body by patting it lightly with a towel. Then, apply the moisturizer to the skin that is still slightly damp. Apply a moisturizer again before you go to sleep.

5. Avoid skin injury

Source: Davis Law Group, PS

In some people, skin injuries or cuts such as abrasions, bruises, or burns can trigger a recurrence of psoriasis symptoms in the area of ​​the wound. So, the next step to prevent psoriasis is to avoid things that can make the skin hurt.

Whether due to sharp objects scratches, exposure to direct sunlight, or insect bites, all can be at risk for the emergence of this condition. Here are some things you can do.

• Wear long sleeves and trousers when you go to a place with lots of plants.
• Use a hat and sunscreen when you are outdoors.
• Wear body armor such as elbow and knee protectors when doing outdoor sports.
• Use a special lotion or spray to prevent insect bites.

6. Maintain a healthy diet

Source: Windsor Dermatology

Any food you eat can certainly have an effect on your health, including the psoriasis you have. There are several foods that can trigger inflammation, which of course you should reduce your consumption of.

True, certain diets will not cure psoriasis, but eating a healthy diet can be a preventative measure or reduce the severity of symptoms.

Therefore, you may need to avoid psoriasis sufferers such as red meat, dairy products, frozen processed foods such as nuggets or sausages, and foods that are high in sugar.

Start by eating more fish that contain omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines and tuna. Omega-3 itself has been shown to inhibit cell inflammation commonly experienced by psoriasis patients. Also increase your intake of vegetables and fruits that contain antioxidants to protect you from pathogens that cause disease.

In addition, there have been several studies showing a close link between obesity and an increased risk of this disease. Eat enough and nutritionally balanced portions including carbohydrates, protein and fiber.

If necessary, you can also add nutrients by taking vitamin supplements. However, you must first consult with your doctor to ensure that the supplements you are taking are safe and will not affect the drugs you are taking.

Remember, when trying to prevent psorasis, make sure you keep an eye on any changes or symptoms that appear in the body. If your skin starts to show symptoms again, immediately consult a doctor for treatment.