How to manage your psoriasis

Jul 24, 2023

By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire

Breakouts, scars, tan lines. We all have quibbles with our skin from time to time. Yet for some, their skin can cause long-term issues that impact their daily lives. Every August, Psoriasis Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of this significant condition so we can help support those who manage it throughout their lives.

What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a long-term condition that causes raised plaques on the skin that are often flaky, scaly, sore, and itchy. It begins in the immune system where immune cells (T cells) are triggered and act as if they were trying to heal the skin or fight infection. Inflammatory chemicals are produced, leading to overactive skin growth and an accumulation of skin cells, manifesting in itchy, raised plaques.

Plaques can occur on any area of the body but are most common on the scalp, hands, feet, and genitals. While some people suffer fairly constantly, others experience sporadic flare-ups that are triggered by a variety of factors, from stress or hormonal changes to infection or certain medications.

How is it treated?
There are a wide range of ways doctors treat this condition and it is often a process of trial and error.

Moisturising the skin can make it more comfortable by soothing the dryness, cracking, and itching. Many doctors recommend applying a moisturiser before using other topical treatments to help them absorb. Ingredients are key – avoid irritants such as artificial scents, and choose a texture that will suit your symptoms and lifestyle. For example, lotions like Cetaphil, Eucerin, and E45 absorb well in more hairy areas, lighter creams like Eucerin and Cerave can be more comfortable in the daytime, while oil-rich creams or ointments like Aquaphor, Emulsifying ointment or Aqueous Cream are better saved for before bed.

Your GP is also likely to prescribe topical treatments. Vitamin D is commonly used to slow the overactive production of skin cells, thus improving psoriasis symptoms. Vitamin D is often prescribed in combination with a topical steroid to reduce irritation, and/or coal tar oil which has anti-scaling properties. This type of treatment is generally prescribed to treat small areas of skin.

Where topical treatments are less effective, your doctor may recommend UV treatments. Applied by medical professionals in a phototherapy unit, narrowband UVB can treat larger areas where topical treatments are not suitable or have proven ineffective. PUVA combines UVA with psoralen which makes the skin more sensitive to the rays.

How to manage psoriasis
Your GP can help you develop a care plan that works for you. The psychological impact of psoriasis can be equally difficult and this should form a key part of your key plan. Remember not to stop using your treatments if your psoriasis clears up (unless recommended by your GP) as treatments also prevent further flare-ups from occurring.

While important for everyone, self-care is crucial for those managing long-term conditions. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables and limiting unhealthy choices like smoking or binge drinking will always reduce the likelihood of a flare-up. If your symptoms worsen when you’re stressed or anxious, set aside more time for relaxation – whatever that looks like for you. Your pharmacist will be happy to help build a self-care routine, with suggestions like Ashwagandha, Vitamin B-Complex, or Stress Away (or Goodbye) gummies to boost your mood and calm your mind.

If you’re suffering from psoriasis or have concerns about your skin, do speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.