Many MyPsoriasisTeam members say consistent skin care is one of their most important tools during a flare. That often includes prescription creams, over-the-counter (OTC) products, and daily moisturizing routines.

One member shared, “I have … been to see a specialist on psoriasis who has given me a treatment to follow, which I do for a month. It is not a cure, but it makes my life better.”

Another member pointed out that even simple options can help: “Do you have a dermatologist you see? There are creams over the counter you can use, too.”

For OTC products, follow the directions carefully. For prescription treatments, follow your doctor’s instructions, including whether to use them less often or stop treatment. If a treatment isn’t helping or causes irritation, talk with a dermatologist about adjusting your plan. 

Some members notice that certain products can make flares worse. These can include shampoos, soaps, detergents, or even ingredients in medications.

One member reflected, “These rashes that we have might not always be stemming from disease. They could be coming from a variety of sources, whether it’s the water, the air, or that ’clean’ detergent that actually isn’t.”

Another shared an experience with a steroid scalp solution that contained isopropanol, a type of alcohol used to help deliver medication to the skin: “I felt it was making things worse.”

Paying attention to what touches your skin may help you spot patterns. If something seems to trigger irritation, talk with your healthcare provider about other options.

“These rashes ... could be coming from a variety of sources, whether it’s the water, the air, or that ’clean’ detergent that actually isn’t.”

 

— A MyPsoriasisTeam member

When itching, burning, or joint pain becomes intense, some members turn to cold or heat for relief.

One member described, “The itching and burning kept me up last night for about two hours. … When I put an ice pack over a cloth, it seems to stop the itch.”

Another shared that different approaches can work at different times: “Sometimes you need a heating pad for the achiness, and other times, you need an ice pack if it feels stiff or sore.”

Cold packs or gentle warmth may not stop a flare, but they can make symptoms easier to handle in the moment.

Weather is a common challenge for people with psoriasis. Some members say their symptoms get worse with cold, heat, or sudden temperature changes.

One member shared, “Weather has affected me more than almost all the other things put together.”

Although you can’t control the weather, some people find it helpful to adjust their routines, such as moisturizing more often in dry conditions or protecting their skin during extreme temperatures.

Stress doesn’t just affect your emotions. It can also play a role in physical symptoms, including psoriasis flares.

One member explained it clearly: “Stress is a major trigger for many people. I don’t think the reason for the stress matters, but the stress itself can cause flares.”

Another shared how stress can build up during difficult situations: “Very achy in shoulder. Doing the debating thing with insurance. …  It’s giving me so much added stress, and that just makes things even worse.”

People manage stress in different ways. Some people turn to rest, hobbies, movement, or support from others. Even small steps to reduce stress may help.

“Stress is a major trigger for many people. I don’t think the reason for the stress matters, but the stress itself can cause flares.”

 

— A MyPsoriasisTeam member

Food is a complex and sometimes controversial topic in psoriasis. Some members have observed that certain foods and drinks may affect their flares.

“No coffee! I love coffee, but when I quit, it cleared up my psoriasis. Also, alcohol is a trigger as well,” one member shared.

Some people report that the following foods, drinks, and ingredients affect their psoriasis symptoms:

• Alcohol
• Dairy products
• Highly processed foods
• Saturated fats and trans fats
• Foods high in added sugar
• Gluten, a protein found in certain grains

Another member shared how a nutritious diet combined with other lifestyle changes has helped keep flares in check: “I cook from scratch, eat fruits and vegetables, walk daily, do all my own errands and housework, haven’t had a flare-up in years.”

“I cook from scratch, eat fruits and vegetables, walk daily ... haven’t had a flare up in years.”

 

— A MyPsoriasisTeam member

Foods can affect everyone differently, and what triggers one person’s psoriasis may not affect another’s. If you’re thinking about making changes to your diet, it may help to track your symptoms and talk with your healthcare provider.