The skin is the largest organ in the body, responsible for many tasks, including acting as a protective barrier from external threats. As such, it’s susceptible to many conditions, including psoriasis, an autoimmune issue affecting 125 people globally and about 7.5 million in the US.
This skin illness has several types and affects people of all ages, but it can be managed. At their three New York City locations, Dr. Javier Zelaya and his team at Skinworks Dermatology can help if you’re dealing with psoriasis or other skin problems.
Problems with your immune systems are known as autoimmune conditions, when your body mistakenly identifies healthy tissue as a threat and attempts to destroy it.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by a rapid buildup of skin cells. It often leads to problems across the body, including the hands, face, neck, scalp, elbows, knees, and feet. Less commonly, it affects other parts, such as the nails, mouth, or genitals.
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form, causing thick, scaly patches (plaques) on the skin. It’s often associated with medical problems such as Type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, psoriatic arthritis, anxiety, and depression.
Psoriasis is often inherited. If your family member has it, you’re at higher risk. Other factors that can increase your chances of getting this chronic skin problem include:
Common psoriasis symptoms include:
Factors that can trigger psoriasis outbreaks include diet, obesity, and weather changes.
Here are some things you can do to reduce symptoms and prevent psoriasis outbreaks:
Keeping your skin comfortable is essential with psoriasis. Moisturizers can help reduce dryness and irritation. Emollients are commonly used, as well as topical creams with salicylic acid and coal tar.
To manage psoriasis that may have resulted from obesity, diabetes, or heart disease, an exercise regimen to shed pounds can make a big difference.
Changes in your eating habits also help with weight issues. Enjoy more water, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acid foods (different types of fish or the supplement) and reduce your sugar and trans fat intake to keep you and your skin healthier.
Several supplements and alternative products can bolster your immune system, such as probiotics and Oregon grape. Other products that help reduce inflammation include tea tree oil, aloe vera, curcumin, and capsaicin.
Keeping your skin clean with showers and baths is important, of course, but using colloidal oatmeal (not the stuff you eat) and Epsom salts when bathing or as a dressing on your skin can help decrease inflammation and keep your skin moist.
Psoriasis never completely goes away. But it can be managed, and we can help. Call the Skinworks Dermatology office in Maspeth, Chelsea, or Park Slope, or request your appointment online today.
