Living with psoriasis is more than just dealing with patches of dry or itchy skin—it’s an everyday challenge that can affect confidence, comfort, and even mental health. The flare-ups often come at the most inconvenient times, making you feel frustrated, self-conscious, and sometimes even isolated. 

August is Psoriasis Action Month — a time to talk about a skin condition that affects more than 125 million people worldwide, according to the World Psoriasis Day consortium. That’s roughly 2–3% of the global population. 

Many think psoriasis is “just a skin problem,” but it’s actually a long-term condition linked to the immune system.

The good news? With the right care, support, and habits, you can manage it and live a comfortable, confident life.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis happens when your immune system sends wrong signals to your skin. This makes skin cells grow too quickly — in just a few days instead of weeks. The extra cells pile up on the surface, creating red patches covered with silvery scales.

Some common reasons it can develop are:

• Family history – If someone in your family has psoriasis, your chances are higher.
• Immune system overactivity – Your body’s defense system starts attacking healthy skin cells by mistake.
• Environment – Infections, stress, climate changes, or injuries to the skin can trigger it.

Diagnosis :  Is It Psoriasis or Something Else?

Psoriasis can look like other skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or fungal infections. This is why it’s important to get checked by a dermatologist.

You might have psoriasis if you notice:

• Red, raised patches with white or silver scales.
• Skin that feels dry, cracked, or painful.
• Itchy or burning sensations.
• Changes in nails (pits, ridges, or thickening).

How doctors confirm it:

1. Skin check – The doctor will closely look at your skin, scalp, and nails.
2. Medical history – You’ll be asked about symptoms, family history, and lifestyle.
3. Skin biopsy – In some0 cases, a tiny skin sample is tested under a microscope.

How Psoriasis Progresses?

Psoriasis doesn’t stay the same all the time. It usually comes in cycles:

There are flare-ups, when symptoms get worse. 

Then there are remission periods, when symptoms get better or even disappear for a while.

Types of psoriasis you might hear about:

1. Plaque psoriasis – Most common; thick, scaly patches.
2. Guttate psoriasis – Small, red spots, often after an infection.
3. Inverse psoriasis – Smooth red patches in skin folds like armpits or groin.
4. Pustular psoriasis – White blisters filled with pus (not from infection).
5. Erythrodermic psoriasis – Rare, but very serious; covers most of the body with redness and scaling.

Triggers – What Can Make Psoriasis Worse

Common flare-up triggers include:

• Stress – Emotional strain can affect the immune system.
• Infections – Like strep throat or skin infections.
• Weather changes – Cold, dry air can dry out skin and cause irritation.
• Certain medicines – Some heart and mental health medications may worsen symptoms.
• Smoking and alcohol – Both can increase flare-ups.
• Skin injuries – Cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or even sunburn.

Natural Remedies for Immediate Relief from Inflammation

Inflammation in psoriasis happens because the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to grow too fast and triggering redness, heat, and swelling. When inflammation flares up suddenly, quick-relief remedies can help soothe the skin and reduce discomfort:

1. Cold compresses – Applying a clean, cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth for a few minutes can calm heat and swelling.
2. Aloe vera gel – Straight from the plant or pure gel, it cools the skin instantly and helps ease redness.
3. Oatmeal paste or bath – Can quickly soothe itching and create a protective layer over irritated skin.
4. Coconut oil – Softens scales and locks in moisture, reducing irritation.
5. Diluted apple cider vinegar (for scalp only) – May relieve itch quickly, but avoid using on broken skin.
6. Ginger – Known for improving circulation and reducing inflammation, which can ease skin discomfort.

These methods offer temporary relief and should be paired with ongoing treatment for longer-term management.

Always test natural remedies on a small patch of skin first and consult your doctor.

Skincare for Psoriasis

Taking care of your skin is more than just comfort — it helps slow down flare-ups, keeps the skin barrier healthy, and can even prevent cracks or infections that might make psoriasis worse. A consistent skincare routine can make a big difference in how the condition progresses.

• Apply moisturizer right after bathing – Locks in moisture while the skin is still damp, preventing dryness that can trigger flare-ups.
• Use gentle exfoliation – Softly removes dead skin and scales without irritating healthy skin underneath.
• Get safe sun exposure – A few minutes of morning or late afternoon sunlight can help reduce inflammation, but always avoid sunburn.
• Use doctor-prescribed creams – Target inflammation and slow down excess skin growth, helping keep symptoms under control.

Do’s and Don'ts : Nutrition Tips for Psoriasis

Good nutrition is important because it can help calm inflammation, support your immune system, and reduce flare-ups. An unhealthy diet high in processed foods or sugar can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms.

Here are some top food tips:

1. Eat anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and olive oil.
2. Include colourful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants like berries, spinach, kale, carrots, and bell peppers.
3. Choose whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, oats) instead of refined carbs.
4. Add turmeric and ginger to meals for their natural anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Enjoy probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir for gut health.
6. Snack on nuts and seeds for healthy fats.
7. Eat beans and lentils for plant-based protein and fiber.
8. Limit processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.
9. Reduce red meat and processed meats, which can trigger inflammation.
10. Stay hydrated with plenty of water and herbal teas.

How Anupam Holistic Can Support You

This Psoriasis Action Month, take the first step toward healthier skin and lasting well-being.

As an Autoimmune Expert, I’ve guided many individuals with psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions toward relief and long-term healing. With the right nutrition, lifestyle, and holistic care, improvement is possible.

✨ If you or someone you know is living with psoriasis, now is the time to seek support.

📩 Book your personalized consultation today by writing us at admin@anupamholistic.com Or WhatsApp us at +91 8373965200