According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune skin condition affecting more than 7 million Americans. In psoriasis, the skin cells build up too quickly, causing outbreaks of dry, scaly and red patches on the skin. The Mayo Clinic suggests certain triggers--such as stress, skin injury, infection and alcohol--can lead to more frequent attacks. The National Psoriasis Foundation describes the three types of pustular psoriaris, which cause noninfectious, pus-filled white blisters across the skin. One of the easiest methods of draining pus is through compresses.
Step 1
Make a warm compress. In "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies" by Prevention Magazine, Dr. Rodney Basler suggests warm compresses as an effective way to speed healing of boils and other pustules. Wash your hands, then soak a washcloth or towel in very warm water. After wringing out the excess moisture, apply the wet washcloth directly over the affected skin.
Step 2
Press the compress tightly to your skin. Dr. Basler suggests using the compress for 20 to 30 minutes each time. If the compress cools before the time period is up, reheat the washcloth until it's warm, then reapply.
Step 3
Apply the compress three to four times per day until the pustules open. Once they open, Dr. Basler suggests continuing the compresses for another three days until the pustules have fully drained.
Step 4
After using the compress, dry the skin. Cover the affected psoriasis area with clean, dry bandages to absorb any drainage. Change the bandages as needed, such as after pus absorption begins.
Things You'll Need
- Clean washclothes or towels
- Hot water
- Clean bandages
References
- National Psoriasis Foundation
- Family Doctor (American Academy of Family Physicians): Psoriaris
- Mayo Clinic: Psoriasis
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies"; Prevention Magazine Editors; 2003
