As winter approaches, those suffering with psoriasis will need to plan their winter wardrobe ahead of time to avoid flare ups.
Psoriasis is a chronic disease of the immune system which causes skin cells to grow at an accelerated rate. This leads to red, flaky, crusty patches of skin, most commonly found on your elbows, knees, scalp or lower back. Like other skin conditions such as eczema, certain triggers can cause psoriasis to flare up.
The cold weather that the winter brings can cause dry skin which can lead to a flare up. Hot weather, in contrast, can actually help control the symptoms of psoriasis. Therefore, although it might seem best to wrap up warm as the lower temperatures hit, certain materials can worsen the effects of psoriasis, leading to a painful flare up.
Different textiles and materials associated with winter wardrobes can be itchy and can lead to overheating, like wool, for instance. Fabrics that are gentle and breathable like cotton or silk are more suitable for those suffering. If wearing breathable fabrics is not an option, however, wearing a vest or undergarment in between irritating fabrics breaks the barrier between your clothes and skin. Also, by wearing undergarments, there is less risk of any ointments or moisturising creams transferring to your clothes, leaving stains.
Similarly, layering clothes is also useful for everyone, especially psoriasis suffers, during winter months. Being able to remove or add layers in response to fluctuating temperatures lessens the chances of overheating or being exposed to too-low temperatures.
With all the precautions psoriasis suffers must take from day-to-day life, particularly as the winter approaches, we are striving towards finding the best possible treatment for varying severities of psoriasis in our upcoming clinical trials. If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis, you could be eligible for a trial. To register your interest and find out more information visit: https://researchforyou.co.uk/atopic-dermatitis/
