For anyone living with psoriasis, the arrival of winter can bring mixed feelings. While most people look forward to cozy sweaters and warm drinks, those dealing with psoriasis on skin often dread the cold months. The drop in temperature, low humidity and harsh winds can all make psoriasis symptoms worse like causing more dryness, itching, redness and irritation.
If you’ve noticed your scalp psoriasis or skin patches becoming flakier and more uncomfortable as the weather changes, you’re not alone. Winter is known to be one of the toughest seasons for people dealing with psoriasis, but the good news is; it’s completely manageable with the right care routine and habits.
Let’s understand what happens to your skin during winter, why psoriasis tends to flare up and what you can do to manage it effectively.
Understanding Psoriasis
Before we talk about winter care, it’s important to understand what psoriasis actually is. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that speeds up the lifecycle of the skin cells. Normally, skin cells take about a month to mature and shed naturally. But in people with psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days; leading to a rapid buildup of skin cells on the surface. The result? Thick, scaly and sometimes itchy patches known as plaques.
These patches can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the elbows, knees, back, scalp and lower back. When it occurs on the scalp, it’s called scalp psoriasis, which can cause itching, dandruff-like flaking and even hair loss if left untreated.
What Causes Psoriasis?
There’s no single cause of psoriasis, but rather a mix of factors that can trigger or worsen it. Some of the common psoriasis causes include:
- Genetics: If someone in your family has psoriasis, you may be more likely to develop it.
- Immune system attack: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system falsely attacks healthy skin cells.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger or aggravate psoriasis flare-ups.
- Cold weather: Dry air and lack of sunlight in winter can worsen symptoms.
- Infections: Throat infections or other illnesses may cause a flare-up.
- Certain medications: Some medicines used for high blood pressure or infections can make psoriasis worse.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption and poor diet can also contribute.
While psoriasis can’t be completely cured, it can be controlled with proper care, especially during the colder months.
Why Psoriasis Gets Worse in Winter?
If your psoriasis tends to worsen during winter, it’s not just in your head; there’s a reason behind it.
- Dry Air: Cold air outside and dry indoor heat can strip away your skin’s natural moisture, making it more prone to flaking and itching.
- Less Sunlight: Sunlight exposure helps reduce psoriasis inflammation because of its natural Vitamin D benefits. In winter, shorter days mean less sunlight, which can cause flare-ups.
- Thicker Clothing: Heavy winter clothes can irritate sensitive skin or cause friction over plaques.
- Hot Showers: While hot showers feel great, they can dry out the skin and make psoriasis symptoms worse.
- Stress and Fatigue: Winter blues and lower activity levels can increase stress, a major trigger for psoriasis.
The combination of all these factors can make psoriasis on skin more noticeable and uncomfortable during the cold months.
Signs Your Psoriasis Is Flaring Up
Here are some psoriasis symptoms to watch out for during winter:
- Dry, cracked, or scaly patches of skin
- Red or inflamed skin areas
- Itching or burning sensations
- Thickened skin plaques with silvery-white scales
- Flaky patches on the scalp (in the case of scalp psoriasis)
- Joint stiffness or swelling (for those with psoriatic arthritis)
If you notice any of these signs becoming worse in cold weather, it’s time to adjust your skincare and lifestyle habits.
How to Manage Psoriasis in Winter?
Managing psoriasis in winter is all about keeping your skin moisturized, calm and protected. Here’s how you can do it:
- Moisturize, Moisturize and Moisturize Again
The first rule of managing psoriasis on skin in winter is to lock in as much moisture as possible. Use a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer or emollient cream right after bathing, while your skin is still damp. This helps seal in hydration and prevents dryness that can trigger flares. Look for ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, ceramides and petroleum jelly, as they help form a protective layer on the skin.
- Take Short, Lukewarm Showers
Hot showers might feel soothing in winter, but they strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water instead and limit your bath time to 10–15 minutes. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers instead of harsh soaps that can dry your skin. After your shower, gently pat dry your skin (don’t rub!) and apply moisturizer immediately.
- Get Some Sunlight or Vitamin D
Sunlight can be your natural therapy for psoriasis, thanks to Vitamin D’s role in slowing skin cell growth. Try spending 10–15 minutes in the morning sunlight when possible. If that’s not an option, speak to your doctor about taking Vitamin D supplements to compensate for the lack of sun exposure.
- Use a Humidifier Indoors
Heaters and indoor heating systems can make the air inside your home extremely dry. Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, keeping your skin from drying out. It’s especially helpful for people with scalp psoriasis, as dry indoor air can worsen flaking and itching.
- Stay Hydrated from Within
It’s easy to skip drinking water in winter, but hydration simply non-negotiable. Drinking enough fluids helps maintain your skin’s elasticity and barrier function. Herbal teas, soups and water-rich fruits like oranges can also help keep your skin hydrated.
- Avoid Stress and Get Adequate Sleep
Stress is one of the biggest psoriasis causes and can worsen symptoms dramatically. Try to incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing into your daily routine. Getting 7–8 hours of sleep also help your body repair and manage inflammation better.
- Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wool and synthetic fabrics can irritate psoriasis-affected skin. Opt for soft, breathable cotton fabrics that allow your skin to breathe and prevent friction. If you have scalp psoriasis, avoid wearing tight hats or beanies for long periods, as they can trap heat and sweat.
- Eat a Balanced, Anti-Inflammatory Diet
What you eat plays a big role in managing psoriasis in winter. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts), antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) and Vitamin D. Avoid processed foods, alcohol and excessive sugar, as they can increase inflammation.
- Avoid Scratching or Picking at Plaques
It can be tempting to scratch itchy plaques, but doing so can worsen irritation and lead to bleeding or infection. Instead, apply a cold compress or aloe vera gel to soothe the area naturally.
- Consult Your Dermatologist
If your psoriasis symptoms become unmanageable or painful, consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe medicated creams, light therapy, or oral medications depending on the severity of your condition. Remember that every person’s psoriasis is different, so finding the right combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments is key.
Conclusion
Winter can be challenging for people with psoriasis, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By understanding psoriasis causes, recognizing your psoriasis symptoms and following a gentle yet consistent care routine, you can keep your skin calm, comfortable and confident throughout the season.
Whether you’re dealing with scalp psoriasis or patches on other parts of your body, remember that consistent care and a little self-kindness go a long way. Stay warm, stay hydrated and give your skin the love it deserves this winter.
