Psoriasis Autoimmune Skin Condition Skin Care Red Pink Purple Dry Itchy Scaling Skin (Part III) by Samantha Oram (Licensed Esthetician)

At the Know Your H20 Portal, we have many users asking if there is a connection between their dry skin and in some cases psoriasis and the water they are using or drinking.   We decided to ask the in-house aesthetician for some feedback and we decided to ask Chat GPT some questions.

Question 1:  What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by an overactive immune response that accelerates the growth of skin cells, leading to red, inflamed patches, scales, and dryness. While genetics play a major role in psoriasis, environmental factors—like diet—can also influence its severity. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been increasingly scrutinized for their potential impact on inflammation and chronic diseases, including psoriasis.

Added by the Know Your H20 Team -  "The most common type is plaque psoriasis, which appears as raised, inflamed areas covered with silvery-white scales, typically found on the elbows, knees, and scalp, but also can impact the inside of the mouth, fingernails, toenails, genitals, lower back, palms and feet."

Question 2: How to Protect Your Skin from Water Contaminants and Low Humidity Environments ?

Use a water filter: Installing a water filter, such as a shower filter or a whole-home filtration system, can help reduce chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants. Activated carbon filters are particularly effective at removing chlorine, while reverse osmosis filters can help with a broader range of contaminants. (Suggestion a POU Faucet Filter)

Hydrate externally: If you're in an area with hard water, or you're concerned about water quality, consider using a gentle, hydrating body wash that won’t strip your skin of its natural moisture. Follow up with a rich moisturizer to help reinforce your skin’s protective barrier.

Limit exposure to hot water: Hot water can exacerbate dryness and skin irritation, especially for individuals with psoriasis. Opt for lukewarm water when bathing or showering.

After bathing, apply moisturizer immediately: To lock in hydration and protect your skin from contaminants in the water, apply a thick moisturizer immediately after you get out of the shower or bath, while your skin is still slightly damp.

Consider using a humidifier: If the water in your area is particularly harsh or dry (especially in the winter), a humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping your skin retain hydration. (Suggestion Humidifier for Bedroom)

Additional Tips for Psoriasis and Skin Irritation

Use non-irritating fabrics: Soft, breathable fabrics (like cotton) are better for your skin than rough fabrics, which can irritate and exacerbate dryness and inflammation. (Suggestion Eczema and Psoriasis Clothing)

Manage stress: Stress is known to trigger psoriasis flare-ups, so incorporating stress-management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce flare-ups.

Diet: Anti-inflammatory diets, including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish and flaxseed), antioxidants (like fruits and vegetables), and vitamin D, can support skin health. Some people find that specific food triggers (like gluten or dairy) worsen their psoriasis, so experimenting with diet changes under a healthcare provider's guidance can help manage flare-ups.  (Suggestion Food Sensitivity Testing)

Consulting a Dermatologist

If you have persistent dry skin or psoriasis that isn't improving despite these measures, a dermatologist can offer more personalized treatments. They may suggest: biological treatments, topical agents, and medications.  

Conclusion

In summary, if you have psoriasis, it’s important to address both the condition itself and any external factors, like water contaminants, that might be exacerbating your dry skin. Stay on top of moisturizing, using psoriasis-specific treatments,  consider filtering your water to reduce irritation, and consider modifying your diet. If the problem persists or worsens, a dermatologist can offer more tailored solutions.

Part I of this Article - Dry Skin
Part II of this Article - Psoriasis

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