Living with eczema or psoriasis can be a constant challenge. If you have ever experienced the symptoms then you know how they can severely impact your day-to-day life. From the discomfort of flare-ups to the emotional toll of visible skin issues, the struggle is real. But while these conditions may not have a cure, there are effective ways to manage them and improve your quality of life.
In this guide, I will be sharing various approaches to managing eczema and psoriasis that combine practical lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and nourishing foods. Basically, encompassing a more holistic approach. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been battling these conditions for years, my goal is to empower you with actionable strategies that can make a real difference in your skin health and overall well-being.
Understanding Eczema and Psoriasis:
Okay so let’s, start by defining the two conditions. Eczema and psoriasis, while distinct in their causes and manifestations the do share a common thread: they both involve an overactive immune system. Understanding this connection is key to managing these conditions effectively.
Eczema: Often linked to environmental factors, allergens, and stress, eczema is an inflammatory condition that leads to dry, itchy patches of skin. It’s common in children but can persist or appear in adulthood. The itching can be relentless, leading to scratching that only worsens the condition.
Psoriasis: This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly. The result is thick, scaly patches of skin that can be itchy and painful. Unlike eczema, which can come and go, psoriasis tends to be more persistent, with symptoms fluctuating in severity.
These conditions are more than just skin deep. They can really impact your self-esteem, affect your sleep, and even lead to anxiety or depression. That’s why it’s important to take a comprehensive approach to management of the conditions, one that addresses not only the physical but also emotional aspects of living with eczema or psoriasis.
Practical Tips for Managing Eczema and Psoriasis:
Moisturise, Moisturise, moisturise: Keeping your skin well-hydrated is your first line of defence. When you have eczema or psoriasis, your skin's natural barrier is compromised, making it more prone to dryness and irritation. Regular moisturizing can help lock in moisture and protect this barrier. Look for thick, fragrance-free creams or natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or shea butter, and apply them immediately after bathing to seal in moisture. Bonus – drink plenty water
Identify and Avoid Triggers: One of the biggest challenges in managing these conditions is identifying what sets off your symptoms. This is because triggers can vary widely from person to person and may include specific foods, stress, allergens like pollen or pet dander, and even changes in weather. One way of monitoring symptoms is by keeping a diary of your symptoms, along with notes on your diet, environment, and emotional state. This may help you pinpoint what might be causing flare-ups. Once you know your triggers, you can take steps to avoid them.
Practice Stress Management: Stress doesn’t just make you feel bad; it can also wreak havoc on your skin. For many people with eczema or psoriasis, stress is a major trigger for flare-ups, especially with life’s busy challenges. Incorporating stress-relief techniques into your daily routine can be incredibly beneficial not just for your skin but also for your mental health. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness meditation, taking up yoga, or simply finding time to unwind with a good book, managing stress is a crucial part of managing your skin condition.
Use Gentle Skincare Products: Your skincare routine plays a critical role in managing eczema and psoriasis. Harsh soaps, fragrances, and chemicals can irritate your skin and exacerbate symptoms. Try to opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products that are free from potential irritants. When washing your skin, use lukewarm water instead of hot, as hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and lead to further dryness.
Prioritize Sleep: Sleep hygiene is essential to any health routine. Quality sleep is essential for your skin’s repair and rejuvenation processes. Unfortunately, the itching and discomfort associated with eczema and psoriasis can make it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Creating a calming bedtime routine, keeping your bedroom cool, and using natural sleep aids like chamomile tea or lavender essential oil can help improve your sleep quality, which in turn can help your skin heal.
Flare-up, hand scratching back
Supplements and Herbs for Eczema and Psoriasis:
In addition to lifestyle changes, certain supplements and herbs can offer support from within. Here are a few that have shown promise in managing eczema and psoriasis:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s, found in fish oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a key factor in both eczema and psoriasis, and increasing your intake of omega-3s can help reduce the severity of symptoms. Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation can improve skin hydration and reduce the scaling and redness associated with these conditions.
Vitamin D: There’s a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and autoimmune conditions, including psoriasis. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and maintaining skin health. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, but for those with limited sun exposure, especially during the winter months, a vitamin D supplement can be beneficial. Studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation can help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms and improve overall skin health.
Probiotics: Gut health and skin health are closely connected. An imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to increased inflammation and exacerbate skin conditions like eczema. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods and supplements, can help restore balance to your gut microbiome, potentially reducing inflammation and improving your skin’s condition.
Turmeric (Curcumin): Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions. Supplementing with curcumin may help reduce the inflammation associated with eczema and psoriasis, leading to fewer flare-ups and less severe symptoms.
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera can be a great addition to your skincare routine. Applying aloe vera gel topically can help calm irritated skin and promote healing, while aloe supplements may support overall skin health from the inside out. Aloe is particularly beneficial for reducing the redness and itchiness associated with eczema and psoriasis.
Foods to Support Skin Health:
What you eat can have a significant impact on your skin health. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammation and providing essential nutrients for skin repair and regeneration.
Fatty Fish: Fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Including fatty fish in your diet can help reduce the inflammation associated with eczema and psoriasis and improve skin hydration.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support skin health and reduce oxidative stress. These vegetables are also a great source of fibre, which supports gut health, a key factor in managing inflammatory skin conditions.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and other berries are high in antioxidants that protect the skin from damage and promote healing. The vitamin C found in berries also supports collagen production, which is essential for healthy skin.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds provide essential fatty acids and vitamin E, both of which support skin barrier function and hydration. Nuts and seeds also contain zinc, a mineral that is crucial for skin health and wound healing.
Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, sweet potatoes can help protect the skin from UV damage and promote healthy skin cell production. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which is essential for skin health and repair.
Living with eczema or psoriasis can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can take control of your skin health and improve your quality of life. By incorporating the practical tips, supplements, and skin-nourishing foods outlined in this guide, you can manage your symptoms more effectively and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
Remember, managing eczema and psoriasis is a journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself as you explore different strategies, and don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals or a community of others who understand what you’re going through.
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