on US orders over $100
on all US orders over $100
August is Psoriasis Action Month, which we discussed earlier this month in a blog post. Over 8 million Americans have the skin condition known as psoriasis, which causes the rapid overgrowth of skin cells, leading to scaly patches of skin that are painful, itchy, and irritating. It's not just a cosmetic issue, as the condition can cause social withdrawal, stress, and depression, and may factor into the later development of certain forms of arthritis. Managing the condition requires learning your personal flareup triggers, as well as properly caring for sensitive skin to both prevent and treat these flareups.
One of the strangest facts about psoriasis is that coal tar, a byproduct of coal fuels, is a treatment for the condition that comes recommended by no less than the National Psoriasis Foundation. It's not entirely clear how the mechanism of action works, but coal tar has long been used to reduce inflammation and slow the rapid growth of skin cells that causes psoriasis. MG217 Psoriasis Coal Tar Ointment is a 2% coal tar formula that helps relieve the itching, scaling, and redness caused by the condition, and can also be used to relieve inflammation in other skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
One of the worst possible occurrences for sensitive skin is a sunburn. Sun damage can seriously worsen preexisting skin conditions, and it can easily trigger flareups of psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema. When choosing sunscreen, you'll want a strong SPF to keep your skin protected throughout an active day. No-Ad Sport Sunscreen is SPF 50 and provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB coverage with water and sweat resistance, guarding you from the worst of the sun's rays and lessening the chances of flareups. It also contains aloe, cocoa seed butter, and vitamin E to moisturize skin, helping to retain water and maintain its health.
Psoriasis may typically affect areas other than the face -- for instance the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back -- Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer contains the UV-blocking titanium dioxide and moisturizing silicones like dimethicone and cyclomethicone, ingredients that dermatologists recommend looking for when choosing a sunscreen. It's a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation, and its high SPF 50 defense rating is well above the recommended minimum SPF 30. Despite its strength, it's non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and moisturizes and nourishes your skin even as it protects it.
Dermatologists recommend that people with everyone wash their face twice a day, but many people with sensitive skin are reluctant to do so. Scrubbing, hot water, and ingredients in cleansers can all trigger flareups. Soap in particular can be troublesome, as its abrasive qualities can dry skin and strip its protective oils, and it can easily cause a flareup. Most dermatologists recommend a mild cleanser instead, and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is an ideal choice. It helps the skin retain moisture, and its non-comedogenic formula ensures it won't block pores, keeping your skin clear and avoiding irritation. And it's free of the fragrance contained in many soaps and cleansers, which can often irritate delicate skin.
We can't stress enough how important it is to take care of delicate skin. You may be concerned about causing a flareup, but leaving your skin untouched can cause a buildup of oils and dirt that can easily trigger one. For severe cases of psoriasis, rosacea, or any other skin condition, consider Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser. It's hypoallergenic and contains feverfew, a plant extract with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and relieve inflammation. Aveeno Active Naturals won't block pores and it's fragrance-free.
No matter what cleanser works best for you, remember to take care when using it. Apply it gently, using a circular motion with your fingertips. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, and gently pat your skin dry with a clean, cotton towel.
Moisturization is vital to anyone with sensitive skin. When you moisturize, you help create a barrier to trap water in your skin, which can reduce irritation and can even improve the effects of clinical treatments. But not all moisturizers work the same way, and you'll want a non-comedogenic formula to prevent blocking pores. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, all contained in CeraVe PM. These help restore the skin's natural barrier as well as bring water to its surface. CeraVe PM's gentle, non-irritating formula is oil- and fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, for a moisturizer that will hydrate your skin and restore its natural barrier without clogging your pores.
Leave a comment