What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which part of your skin or scalp becomes very dry, rough and itchy. But if we look below the surface it begins beneath the outer epidermis and is a chronic immune disorder. Some cases of psoriasis are more severe than others, but no matter what, it is something you want to treat to minimize.
Common symptoms
- Red patches of skin covered with thick scales
- Small scaling spots
- Dry and cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning or soreness
- Thickened, pitted or ridged nails
- Swollen and stiff joints
Therefore this over production of skin cells (which your system in unable to shed) causes a build-up of old skin cells that are forced to the surface. This leads to red or itchy or flaky skin patches which are called plaques.
Ways to alleviate it long term
There is hope, soothing this irritated skin comes naturally with the use of olive oil. More specifically, olive oil based skincare products such as Olivella are known for alleviating the uncomfortable symptoms of psoriasis.
Here are our top 3 steps for alleviating psoriasis:
1. Use a humidifier – if the air in your home or office is moist, this can prevent dry skin before it starts.
2. Avoid fragrances – most soaps and gels possess dyes and other chemicals that irritate sensitive skin and inflame psoriasis. Try Olivella’s new Fragrance Free Face & Body Soap, ideal for this skin condition as it has been researched to clean even more gently, respecting the most sensitive and delicate skin types.
3. Warm baths – Taking a lukewarm, not hot bath with olive oil or Olivella’s Moisturizer Oil can soothe itchy skin and soothe plaques. Be sure to moisturize immediately after your bath for further healing and benefit.
Helpful links to learn more about Psoriasis:
- National Psoriasis Foundation (https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis)
- WebMD (http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/understanding-psoriasis-basics#1)
- Psoriasis Skin Care Tips (http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-skin-care-tips#1)
- Integumentary System (https://scribeschool.net/integumentary-system-info-for-scribes.html)