Itching is one of the most talked-about and frustrating parts of living with psoriasis. Between 60% and 90% of people with psoriasis experience itching that affects their daily life. The main culprits are inflammation and the rapid buildup of skin cells, which leads to dryness and irritation.
As one MyPsoriasisTeam member Show Full Answer
Itching is one of the most talked-about and frustrating parts of living with psoriasis. Between 60% and 90% of people with psoriasis experience itching that affects their daily life. The main culprits are inflammation and the rapid buildup of skin cells, which leads to dryness and irritation.
As one MyPsoriasisTeam member put it: "My face is killing me today, all red, tight, and itchy. I'm now on day four of barely sleeping. I feel so itchy, and it's 10 times worse at night." Certain triggers can make itching worse, including:
- Dry skin
- Cold winter weather
- Sweating after exercise
- High temperatures
- Hot water
- Stress
Keeping track of your personal triggers can help you manage and prevent flare-ups. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends these steps to help manage itching at home:
- Moisturize right after showering while skin is still warm and moist
- Apply a thick moisturizer when itching starts (resist scratching!)
- Take shorter showers with warm — not hot — water
- Try an over-the-counter anti-itch cream with menthol or pramoxine
- Use a cold compress or cool damp cloth on itchy areas
Scratching can actually make plaques thicker and break the skin, increasing the risk of infection, so it's really worth trying these alternatives. MyPsoriasisTeam members have also shared what works for them. Some find relief with antihistamines like Benadryl or loratadine (generic Claritin). Natural options that members mention include:
- Coconut oil: "Instant relief for me"
- Oatmeal baths or oatmeal paste
- Hemp butter
Medical treatments like UVB light therapy, corticosteroids, biologics, and oral treatments can also help reduce itching by targeting psoriasis directly. It's always worth talking to a dermatologist about what combination might work best for you.
April 29
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