If you have psoriasis, you know there are triggers that cause flare-ups on your skin. Scientifically proven triggers include stress, infection, injury to skin, and medications. One of the triggers people find to cause their psoriasis to flare, although it is not scientifically proven as to why, is the weather.
The weather affects your health in many ways, from humidity in the summer to the low temperatures in the wintertime. Many people with psoriasis find that they are especially impacted during the winter.
Why is this?
The National Psoriasis Foundation says the combination of dry air, decreased sunlight exposure, and cold weather can contribute to winter psoriasis flares. Some people say they see improvement in their psoriasis in the spring and summer because of the greater exposure to natural ultraviolet light from the sun.
Another factor that arises in the winter is the likelihood of getting a cold or the flu. Anything that negatively affects the immune system can also affect psoriasis.
What you can do about it
The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests frequent moisturizing and use of a home humidifier to aid in alleviating some of the symptoms. As far as maintaining good immune health during the wintertime, it recommends getting plenty of rest, washing your hands frequently, and being aware of other triggers, such as stress, that can increase your susceptibility to sickness.
As always, discuss with your doctor the best treatments to control your psoriasis in the winter. Every patient is different, so your doctor can make recommendations specific to your situation.