The word ‘psoriasis’ comes from the Greek ‘psor’, which means ‘of itching’. Many people with psoriasis do experience itching, burning and discomfort. Here are some suggestions and advice gathered from other people with psoriases.
People with psoriasis describe the itchy feeling as burning, biting, and painful. For people with psoriasis, itching is the most annoying and frustrated.
Much of the following advice is the result of ‘anecdotal evidence’ – suggestions and advice gathered from other people with psoriasis, through the Psoriasis Association membership and helpline, and by talking to doctors and nurses.
SOME ACTION TO REDUCE ITCHING
Keep your skin well moisturised. Skin is often itchy because it is dry. Using a moisturiser frequently, carry a small amount with you throughout the day.
Water and soap will keep your skin dry. It is always recommended that keep your skin moisturize after a bath.
Soap can be a problem so avoid traditional soaps, bubble baths and detergents that seem to irritate. Use emollients as the alternative to the soap.
Cotton clothes are usually comfortable in this scenario. Use cotton or silk undergarments. You should avoid using nylon mix stuff.
Consult your doctor for some mild steroid creams and ointments which have anti-itching properties. Some moisturisers have anti-itching properties and are available in pharmacies. Try to look out for ‘lauromacrogols’ (an ingredient with similar properties to a local anaesthetic, which helps to relieve and soothe itchy skin) in the list of ingredients.
Keep your nails short to reduce any damage done to your skin by scratching. Try not to scratch if at all possible. Worst scratching can be harmful and also can increase the itching cycle.
Apply some ice on the itching area or have a cool shower, wet towels. Keep your emollients or moisturisers in the fridge so when you apply them, they may give you a cool soothing effect.
Some people find aloe vera or other soothing products helpful.
