7 Hacks For Soothing Psoriasis

Cold winter weather can trigger all sorts of skin conditions, and psoriasis is no exception. If you know what you're experiencing is more than just dry skin, consider these hacks for soothing psoriasis. Of course, check with your doctor before testing out any treatments if you're certain sure how you'll react.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, "Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes raised, red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It typically affects the outside of the elbows, knees or scalp, though it can appear on any location. Some people report that psoriasis is itchy, burns and stings." If any of this sounds familiar and you haven't been formally diagnosed yet, definitely set up an appointment with your doctor to confirm you have the skin disease.

If you feel alone in your struggle, remember that you're definitely not. It's way more common than you think. Scientists suspect that at least ten percent of people carry genes that could "trigger" and cause psoriasis, while up to three percent of the population (which is actually a lot) will end up developing the disease at some point in their lifetime.

Though flare-ups can't always be prevented, they can be tamed. The hacks below will soothe your psoriasis as soon as you feel it coming on.

1. Cooking Oil Moisturizer

Extra Virgin Olive Oil, $10.34, Spectrum Naturals

For a budget-friendly moisturizer, Gil Yosipovitch, MD, professor and chair of the dermatology department at Temple University School of Medicine, told EveryDay Health to reach for cooking oil. He advised, "Apply moisturizer right after your bath or shower to lock in natural skin oils. Bonus tip: Keep your creams in the fridge for a cooling effect."

2. Epsom Salt Bath

Epsom Salt, $14.22, Morton

WebMD recommends soaking in a warm bath with epsom salts, which will help to gently slough off dead skin.

3. Aloe

Aloe Vera Gel, $6.19, Fruit Of The Earth

AnnMarieSkincare suggests reaching for the purest aloe gel you can find, which can "reduce redness, scaling, itching, and inflammation."

4. Capsaicin Creams

Topical Cream, $25, Capzasin

Another tip from Dr. Yosipovitch to EveryDayHealth, look for creams with capsaicin to help reduce pain and inflammation. Just be careful not to touch your eyes after applying, since it will burn!

5. Banana Peel

According to HomeRemedyHacks, gently rubbing the inside of a banana peel along the flare-ups can instantly help reduce the burning sensation.

6. Humidifier

Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, $33.22, Crane

Heathline advises getting a humidifer to keep air moist in your home and office to help flare-ups heal faster. Finding a small, portable one is super easy!

7. Yoga

Stress is known to trigger psoriasis, and finding time in your day to do yoga, meditation, or anything that relaxes you can help sooth flare-ups and prevent future ones from forming.