Skin care products can help soften and soothe the often dry, cracked, and irritated skin associated with psoriasis. Learn more about your options.

Skin care products for people with psoriasis

Taking care of your skin can be a daily challenge. If you feel as though you've tried everything and gotten mixed results, why not take a look at what other people have tried, and learn a little more about everyday skin care products and techniques?

Moisturizers—what can they do for you?

Below are some suggestions to help you navigate the skin care aisle more easily. Take a look at what other people have tried, and why it may—or may not—have helped. And remember, always check with your dermatologist before trying any over-the-counter product.

When your skin is moist and lubricated, it is less likely to crack and flake. Applying a moisturizing agent can help seal in moisture. Some products also help soften and soothe the often dry, cracked, and irritated skin associated with psoriasis.

A look at over-the-counter products

A moisturizer will usually contain a combination of lubricating and hydrating properties. It may also contain sunscreen to prevent UVA and UVB light from damaging the skin. Most sunscreens are assigned an SPF (Sun Protection Factor), a number that indicates the approximate length of time it takes for skin covered with sunscreen to burn versus skin that's unprotected. As with any topical product, check with your dermatologist first to make sure the ingredients in the sunscreen won't irritate your psoriasis.

Cream, ointment, or lotion—what's the difference?

Knowing a little more about these different applications can help you find the product that may be right for you.

Ointment: a salve for application to the skin; a semisolid preparation usually having a base of fatty or greasy material
Lotion: a liquid, water-based medicinal preparation containing 1 or more insoluble substances applied externally for skin disorders
Cream: an emulsified medicinal or cosmetic preparation