You may be able to manage mild psoriasis symptoms at home with supplements, moisturizers, or other remedies. Everyone is different, so it’s important to find what works for you and your symptoms.
Although there is no cure for psoriasis, many treatments exist to ease its symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe topicals, systemics, or phototherapy. There are also over-the-counter treatments suitable for mild psoriasis.
There are also home treatments for psoriasis. It is important to note that these treatments should not replace anything your doctor has prescribed, but rather complement it.
You should always talk with your doctor before starting any new treatment for psoriasis, even if it is available over the counter.
Dietary supplements may help ease psoriasis symptoms from the inside.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, dietary supplements that may help mild symptoms of arthritis include:
Check with your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they don’t interfere with other health conditions you may have or medications you’re taking.
Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home or office moist. This can help prevent dry skin before it starts.
Moisturizers for sensitive skin can keep your skin supple and moisturized. Try to select heavy creams or ointments instead of lotions. Use moisturizers after showering or washing your hands to lock in moisture.
Aloe vera has been shown in some cases to reduce the severity of psoriasis. A 2023 review noted that the average Severity Index of Psoriasis Area (PASI) value decreased by 7.7 points in the group using aloe vera after eight weeks.
More human research is needed to show for sure if aloe vera can improve symptoms of psoriasis.
Most soaps and perfumes contain fragrances that may irritate your skin. Avoid such products when you can, or choose those with “sensitive skin” labels.
Seal of recognition
The National Psoriasis Foundation has a seal of recognition for products that are intended to be nonirritating and safe for individuals with psoriasis. If you are looking for a new compatible product, their database of products can help you narrow your search.
Diet
Foods that may be beneficial include:
- fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon
- fruits
- vegetables
Foods that you may want to avoid include:
- processed red meat
- foods high in added sugar
- foods high in saturated fat
Healthful recipes to try
These recipes contain fish, fruits, and vegetables:
A lukewarm bath with Epsom salt can soothe the itching and help remove scales. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that oatmeal baths can also be helpful.
Be sure that the water is not hot. Hot water can cause more irritation.
Moisturize immediately after your bath to lock in additional moisture.
Light therapy involves exposing your skin to ultraviolet light under the supervision of a doctor.
Ultraviolet light can help slow the growth of skin cells triggered by psoriasis. This therapy often requires consistent and frequent sessions.
Sitting in the sun may also help reduce plaques. Sunlight contains both UVB and UVA, but UVB works best for psoriasis. UVB from the sun works in the same way as phototherapy. Further, sunlight is not as effective in treating psoriasis compared to prescription phototherapy.
Too much sunlight and tanning beds aren’t the best options as they can also increase your risk of skin cancer. Moreover, certain psoriasis treatments, such as coal tar, can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn.
Using sunlight to treat psoriasis may not be appropriate for everyone. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out if sunlight for psoriasis is right for you.
Light therapy should always be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Stress can be a trigger for psoriasis, and experiencing a psoriasis flare can also increase your stress.
In addition to reducing stress whenever possible, consider incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga and meditation.
Alcohol can be a trigger for many people who have psoriasis.
According to a 2022 study, increased alcohol use is associated with more severe psoriasis symptoms. Alcohol can also decrease the efficacy of some psoriasis treatments.
Alcohol can also further increase your risk of developing other conditions that you may already be at an increased risk of from psoriasis. These include:
- psoriatic arthritis
- cardiovascular disease
- cancer
- liver disease
Try mocktails
If you enjoy having a drink at the end of the day or in social settings, consider mocktails. Check out the ones compiled here.
Turmeric contains curcumin, an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory effects. It has been found to help reduce psoriasis flare-ups.
Turmeric can be taken as a pill or supplement, or sprinkled on food. Even though turmeric is available over the counter, check with your physician before starting any supplement.
Avoid tobacco. Smoking
Being overweight or obese puts you at a greater risk of developing psoriasis. Obesity is also associated with more severe psoriasis symptoms. Studies have found that losing weight can help improve these symptoms.
There isn’t a single “right” way for managing psoriasis symptoms. What works for one person may not work for another.
Some at-home treatments you may consider include aloe vera, avoiding alcohol, and eating healthfully.
While these remedies for psoriasis may help with mild cases, prescription therapy is required for more severe cases. Talk with your doctor before seeking treatment on your own.
