Did you know August is Psoriasis Awareness Month?
Affecting as many as 7.5 million Americans, psoriasis is a disease that affects the skin, appearing as dry, raised red patches, including popular celebs like Kim Kardashian and Leann Rimes.
Board certified dermatologist, Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, recently helped us shed light on symptoms and new, easy treatments. Here are 3 tips from Dr. Nussbaum:
Bathe Properly. "Bathing can play important part of psoriasis self-care, yet frequent bathing can also dry skin out, causing problems," Dr. Nussbaum explained.
"It's important that the water be lukewarm. Lastly, pat (don't rub) skin dry after a hot shower to avoid further irritation."
Check out a few of our picks for gentle skin cleansers below from Sebamed ($8), Eucerin ($7), Aveeno ($6), and Avon ($8).
Stay Hydrated. "To keep skin soft, try covering areas of the skin affected by Psoriasis with a hydrating lotion and wrap it with a bandage or wrap overnight," the physician instructed.
"In the morning, wash the area gently and apply a day moisturizer with anti-inflammatory properties and neutralizing tints such to soothe and conceal Psoriasis symptoms."
Among our picks for lotions (Eucerin $13, Avon $6, and Gold Bond $8) the Sebamed Moisturizing Body Lotion ($17) was spotted in Kim Kardashian's bathroom and purse in Keeping Up With The Kardashians!
Consider Diet and Lifestyle Changes. "Many people with psoriasis have claimed improvement after cutting down on certain foods, including sugar, white flour, gluten, and caffeine," Dr. Nussbaum siad.
"There is also an association between obesity and Psoriasis, and many dermatologists feel a healthy weight can improve symptoms," he explained.
"Try improving your Psoriasis by simple lifestyle changes like eliminating certain foods (especially less nutritious ones) and exercising as little as 30 minutes daily."