Should I Exfoliate My Psoriasis? 5 Skin Survival Tips For Psoriasis Warriors.

Key Takeaways

• Should you exfoliate psoriasis Gentle exfoliation may help remove loose, flaky skin, but it should be done carefully to avoid irritating psoriasis-prone skin.
• When choosing an exfoliator for psoriasis, look for gentle formulas and avoid harsh scrubbing that can aggravate sensitive skin.
• A best exfoliator for psoriasis should support gentle skin care while helping maintain moisture and comfort.
• Scalp psoriasis exfoliation requires extra care because vigorous scratching or scrubbing may irritate the scalp and worsen discomfort.
• If you exfoliate psoriasis, focus on being gentle and stop if the skin becomes painful, irritated or inflamed.
• A body scrub for psoriasis should be used cautiously, particularly on active or irritated patches, as physical exfoliation may not be suitable for everyone.
• Along with skincare, managing stress, maintaining healthy habits and paying attention to individual triggers can support overall skin wellbeing.

Psoriasis. It's itchy, scaly and downright painful. With over 125 million sufferers worldwide, it's a common auto-immune problem which sadly, has no official cure. But it is totally possible to manage the condition with a good skincare routine, diet and exercise which all contribute to a stronger immune system. Here are 5 tips that can help you deal with the P-word: 

1) Exfoliate: Yup, regular exfoliation. By choosing a natural exfoliant which buffs away the top layer of dead skin and contains plant-based oils to help soothe and nourish deeper underneath, you allow regular skin-regeneration which can in turn reduce Psoriasis flare-ups. Like our Original Black Tea Body Scrub which has been hailed a skin hero by our customers for removing dead skin cells whilst also moisturising skin thanks to all the natural oils. 

2) Go Natural: Choosing the right ingredients for your skin is just as important as the food you eat. Avoid sulphates, silicones and any skincare ingredient that may have a chemical base that can aggravate your skin. 

3) Be Gentle: Treat your skin like you would a cashmere sweater. Be sensitive and super gentle. When exfoliating, choose an exfoliator that can dissolve as you rub. Our Coconut Scrub uses desiccated coconut as a natural exfoliant whilst the salts and sugar dissolves the more you exfoliate. Avoid products with micro-beads which don't dissolve and can cause further damage to the skins surface for Psoriasis sufferers as well as being bad for the environment. 

4) Give yourself a pep talk: Cheerful thoughts boost immunity. Pair happy thoughts with mentally seeing your skin as you want it to be, a practice based on creative visualisation. How do you speak to yourself regarding your skin? Writing a list of positive affirmations and repeating these daily can have a massive affect on your mental health. 

5) Relax: Stress can trigger a negative response in your brain which in turn releases stress hormones that can cause low immunity and in turn lead to a Psoriasis flare-up. Find ways to relax, a long soak in the bath, a hot shower, long walks with your family and friends; recognise the things that help you feel calmer because a happy you means happy skin. 

How do you manage your Psoriasis? Drop a tip below and support others in their journey too. 

Main image credit: Molly Mace using our Original Black Tea Body Scrub. Follow her Psoriasis journey @mollymmace

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should you exfoliate psoriasis?

Whether you should exfoliate psoriasis depends on your skin's condition and sensitivity. Gentle exfoliation may help loosen flaky skin, but harsh scrubbing can cause irritation. Avoid exfoliating areas that are painful, cracked, bleeding or actively inflamed.

2. What is the best exfoliator for psoriasis?

The best exfoliator for psoriasis is one that is gentle and does not excessively irritate or dry the skin. Avoid aggressive scrubbing and choose products formulated with skin-friendly, nourishing ingredients.

3. Can you use an exfoliator for psoriasis?

An exfoliator for psoriasis may be suitable for some people when used gently. However, psoriasis-prone skin can be sensitive, so it is important to avoid vigorous rubbing and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

4. How should you approach scalp psoriasis exfoliation?

Scalp psoriasis exfoliation should be approached gently. Avoid scratching or aggressively removing scales, as this can irritate the scalp. If scalp symptoms are persistent or severe, consult a dermatologist for appropriate care.

5. Can you exfoliate psoriasis during a flare-up?

It is generally better to avoid aggressive exfoliation during an active flare-up. Inflamed or sensitive skin may become more irritated with physical scrubbing. Consider focusing on gentle cleansing and moisturising instead.