Psoriasis affects 7.7 million Americans, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Most skin cells mature in about a month; however, psoriasis skin cells mature more rapidly--within three to four days. Symptoms of psoriasis include dry, itchy skin, silver scales on the skin's surface and redness. Psoriasis may become extremely painful and uncomfortable. A variety of home remedies may relieve symptoms and improve the appearance of the affected skin.
Daily Baths
Cleaning skin daily while soaking in the bathtub aids in removing the skin scales associated with psoriasis. The warm bathwater will also sooth irritated, itchy skin. The Mayo Clinic suggests adding oatmeal, Epsom salts or dead sea salts and soaking in the bathtub for about 15 minutes. Lukewarm water, not hot water, is recommended. Harsh soaps with added fragrances are not ideal; their chemicals may increase agitation. Soaps with added natural oils and fats are recommended for psoriasis sufferers.
Moisturize Skin
Moisturizing the skin decreases itching, scaling and dryness. The Mayo Clinic recommends using an ointment instead of thinner and lighter creams and lotions. Applying the ointment within three minutes after bathing or showering is ideal, suggests MotherNature.com. Pat skin dry and never rub; apply ointment generously over the entire body, not just the affected scaly patches. Small cracks invisible to the naked eye may cause a psoriasis outbreak if not moisturized.
Sun Exposure
The Mayo Clinic recommends brief daily periods of sun exposure. The sun slows the cell maturation process and decreases scaling and itching. Sunlight also increases vitamin D in the body, which helps control psoriasis outbreaks. Wearing a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher is encouraged; sunburn exacerbates symptoms and makes the skin condition worse.
Stress Management
Psoriasis outbreaks may occur more frequently when a person is under greater amounts of stress, reports MotherNature.com. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) recommends relaxation and mind-body therapies. Practicing yoga, tai chi or simply taking a walk outside may help relieve psoriasis symptoms or prevent an outbreak. UMMC suggests practicing meditation prior to phototherapy, a commonly prescribed treatment for the condition, as meditation may make the phototherapy more effective.
