Psoriasis Flare-Ups: How to Prevent and Treat Them

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. While there is no cure, managing psoriasis effectively can help reduce flare-ups and keep symptoms under control. Whether you’re dealing with mild patches or severe breakouts, understanding what triggers psoriasis and how to treat it can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Visiting your board-certified dermatologist is always best to most effectively manage your psoriasis, but here are a few tips and tricks that all psoriasis patients should know. 

What Causes Psoriasis Flare-Ups?

Psoriasis flares can be unpredictable, but certain triggers tend to worsen symptoms:

• Stress – One of the biggest culprits, stress can cause inflammation and trigger new outbreaks.
• Cold, Dry Weather – Winter months often bring drier skin, which can lead to increased scaling and irritation.
• Skin Injuries – Cuts, burns, bug bites, and even excessive scratching can lead to new psoriasis patches (a reaction known as the Koebner phenomenon).
• Infections – Illnesses like strep throat can trigger immune responses that cause flare-ups.
• Certain Medications – Some drugs, such as beta-blockers, lithium, and antimalarial medications, may worsen or even cause psoriasis.
• Alcohol & Smoking – Both have been linked to increased psoriasis severity and more frequent flares.

How to Prevent Psoriasis Flare-Ups

While psoriasis can’t be completely avoided, taking proactive steps can reduce the frequency and severity of flares:

• Moisturize Daily – Keeping your skin hydrated prevents cracking and irritation by strengthening your skin barrier. Look for thick creams, ointments, or lotions with ceramides, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid.
• Manage Stress – Meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help keep stress levels in check.
• Avoid Harsh Soaps & Fragrances – Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products to avoid irritation.
• Use a Humidifier – Adding moisture to the air, especially in winter, can prevent skin from drying out.
• Follow a Healthy Diet – While there is no specific diet that improves symptoms for all psoriasis patients, some find that anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and nuts help may reduce symptoms.

Effective Treatments for Psoriasis

Treatment for psoriasis can be individualized depending on the severity, body parts affected, and previous treatments tried. Dermatologists offer a range of treatments to help control psoriasis and minimize discomfort:

1. Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroids – Reduce inflammation and itching for mild to moderate psoriasis.
• Vitamin D Analogs (Calcipotriene, Calcitriol) and other non-steroidal topicals – Slow skin cell growth to reduce scaling and decrease inflammation.
• Salicylic Acid & Coal Tar – Help soften and remove thick plaques.

2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

• Narrowband UVB Therapy – A safe, effective treatment that slows excessive skin cell growth.
• XTRAC Laser – an intense laser treatment specifically targeting psoraisis plaques that is appropriate for small areas of the body.

3. Systemic Treatments (For Moderate to Severe Cases)

• Biologic Medications – Injectables that target specific immune responses to prevent inflammation (e.g., Humira, Stelara, Cosentyx, Skyrizi).
• Oral Medications – Methotrexate, cyclosporine, and apremilast, among others can help control severe psoriasis.

When to See a Dermatologist

Dr Laura Schilling, a board-certified dermatologist

It can be beneficial to see a board-certified dermatologist at any stage and severity of psoriasis. This can ensure you have a proper diagnosis and optimized treatment plan.  New advancements in psoriasis treatment have made it possible to live a comfortable, flare-free life.  In addition, your dermatologist can discuss and help screen for any associated conditions such as psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular problems, which psoriasis patients are at a higher risk for. 

By understanding your triggers, following a skincare routine, and seeking medical guidance, you can keep psoriasis under control and reduce the impact it has on your daily life. Schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists to find the best plan for your skin!