● Products : Sulfur is an essential mineral used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and acne. Sulfur assists in fighting bacteria on the skin and in shedding excessive skin. Sulfur topical treatments are available in creams, lotions, bar soap, cleanser, and gels. ● Hydration : Skin needs water to maintain optimal health. Drinking adequate amounts of water aids in digestion, excretion, absorption, circulation, and even skin health. Drinking at least six to eight glasses of water daily will help the body rid itself of toxins. Natural ingredients and remedies for psoriasis Since psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, the skin of the client should be treated as sensitive skin. Use gentle products that contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients. Avoid scrubbing substances and any drying agents that may disrupt the barrier function. Many therapeutic modalities will significantly improve the quality of life for the client, such as the following: ● Aloe vera : This contains anti-inflammatory components that help reduce redness and scaling. ● Capsaicin : This ingredient found in chili peppers reduces inflammation, pain, redness, and scaling associated with psoriasis. ● Oats : An oat paste or taking a bath in oats reduces redness and relieves itchy skin. ● Tea tree oil : This plant native to Australia has antiseptic qualities and is used to relieve scalp psoriasis. ● Oregon grape : This powerful flowering plant treats fungal infections and bacteria. It is also useful in slowing the overproduction of skin cells in mild to moderate psoriasis. ● Omega-3 fatty acids : These are valuable fats for skin health, delivering antioxidants, fortifying cell membranes, improving barrier function support, increasing hydration, and protecting cells from sun- induced inflammation. Essential fatty acids are found in olive oil, salmon, flaxseed, tuna, safflower, sardines, walnuts, and mackerel. Managing potential psoriasis flare-ups and triggers Keep in mind that psoriasis is an immune system problem, and that specific triggers may cause a client’s symptoms to become worse: ● Climate/weather : Changing seasons can be a trigger. Drier weather can create drier skin, which may aggravate symptoms and cause a flare-up. ● Medication : Some prescription drugs can trigger flare-ups, including propranolol beta blockers (heart conditions) and ACE inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure; lithium (used to treat psychiatric disorders); and antimalarials related to hydroxychloroquine (used to treat lupus or arthritis). Also, indomethacin (Indocin), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, can trigger flare-ups. ● Infection/skin injury: Trauma to the skin can be a trigger; therefore, avoid tattoos and acupuncture. Strep throat, bronchitis, tonsillitis, respiratory infection, and HIV are conditions known to aggravate psoriasis. (Goodless, 2012). ● Alcohol : Limit consumption, as drinking can worsen symptoms, interfere with treatments, and cause flare- ups. Alcohol dehydrates the body and skin, and may exacerbate dry, flaky patches. (Windle, 2016). ● Cigarettes : Clients with psoriasis have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease; therefore, stopping smoking will improve symptoms and is beneficial to overall health. (Windle, 2016).
● Systemic therapy : This is used by clients with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Systemic meds work through the whole-body system and are generally taken by mouth or injection. Acitretin, cyclosporine, methotrexate are examples of systemic medications. ● Mineral and thermal waters : Mineral-rich thermal pools can alleviate inflammation and improve damaged skin. ● Balneotherapy : Bathing in thermal springs that contain sulfur (with antibacterial properties) minerals, dead sea salt, volcanic ash, clays, mud, pumice and lava extract can be beneficial. This mineral-rich content (contains minerals such as carbon dioxide, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, sodium chloride, and sulfur) is reported to relieve skin conditions of psoriasis and eczema. It may also minimize pain and increase circulation. (Grabenhofer & Anderson, 2018). ● Acupuncture : In this holistic treatment, fine needles are inserted into the skin to stimulate specific points within the body. Acupuncture is an effective stress relief and pain reliever, especially for those affected with psoriatic arthritis. (Gotter, 2017). Psoriasis treatments to avoid ● Micro-needling : The most common side effect of micro-needling is skin irritation, bleeding, bruising, infection, and peeling. ● Microdermabrasion : If a client has any presence of infection or open facial wounds or scabbing, do not perform this treatment, and immediately refer this client to a dermatologist before providing additional treatments. ● Laser therapy : Excimer lasers deliver targeted, intense ultraviolet light to help control mild to moderate psoriasis. Clients will see results within four to ten sessions, twice per week. However, this is not typically recommended. ● Chemical peels : Salicylic acid, urea, phenol, and lactic acid are some of the best peeling agents used to soften and remove scales. These are not recommended, however. ● Massage therapy : Avoid massaging the affected area. ● Coal tar : According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, coal tar can irritate, redden and dry the skin, in addition to staining clothing and bed linen. It also makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Home care for psoriasis ● Diet : Currently, no studies have linked psoriasis and diet. However, it is recommended to eat a well- balanced diet for general good health. ● Meditation : This reduces stress, improves immune cardiovascular and overall health, and increases happiness. ● Hatha yoga : This mindfulness practice with roots in ancient India includes breathing techniques, physical posture, and meditative relaxation. ● Tai chi : This originated in China and is sometimes referred to as qi gong or “moving meditation.” It includes mind and body practices with mental focus. ● Exercise : Regular exercise is vital for overall good health, in addition to improving self-confidence, relieving stress, and lowering inflammation. (Saeed, 2017). ● Moisture : Lubricating the skin daily will help to soothe and repair damaged skin cells, thus alleviating redness and itching. Moisturizing with calming ingredients including hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, shea butter, argan oil, rose geranium, and lavender will mend cracks and scaling, plus provide intense moisture.
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Book Code: ENC0825
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