Managing Psoriasis Symptoms

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May 10, 2012

Psoriasis can be painful and unsightly, but learning how to care for your skin can save you from a lot of unnecessary discomfort. Follow this 3-step daily routine to feel better fast. Step one: Soak for 15 minutes a day. Psoriasis plagued skin likes nothing more than a warm bath. It helps to soothe inflammation and wash away dead cell buildup. Skip hot water and harsh soaps-they'll just dry you out more--and wash with milder, sensitive skin formulas. Step two: Moisturize. Spread a thick cream or lotion, like Vaseline or Eucerin, over your skin to keep it hydrated. It is best to do this immediately after a bath or shower to better lock in moisture. Lotion can also be used to help remove flaking. Rub it on to the affected area to soften the skin and then very gently peel away any loose flakes. This helps the rest of the moisturizer sink down deeper where it's needed most. Reapply, throughout the day, as you feel your skin starting to dry out. Step 3: Stick with your medication. If you have any prescribed creams or ointments, make sure to keep up with them as your doctor recommended. They're your best defense against new cell growth. Daily washing and moisturizing helps slough off the old cells but won't keep new Psoriasis outbreaks from happening. If you're not taking anything for persistent flare-ups, consider setting up a visit with your dermatologist-especially if your condition is severe or uncomfortable. To learn more about Psoriasis treatment options, check out the rest of the videos in this series.

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