Cold Weather and Psoriasis
Intense sunlight and warmth are a blessing for many psoriasis patients. But what do you do when temperatures suddenly drop and winter arrives? Since cold weather often arrives relatively early in Germany, psoriasis flare-ups can occur as early as the end of September. Over the course of the cold months, these flare-ups may increase, posing a real challenge for some individuals.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Various factors can worsen the symptoms of psoriasis, and cold weather is one of them.
Dry Air: During the winter months, humidity is often low, which can be further exacerbated indoors due to heating. This leads to dry skin. The problem is that psoriasis sufferers already have drier skin, making it more susceptible to cracks and flaking, which can be worsened by the cold.
Reduced Sunlight: Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system. In winter, days are shorter, and we receive less sunlight, requiring additional immune system support. Supplementation with vitamin D capsules may be necessary.
Stress: We're all familiar with the pre-Christmas stress. The holidays, as well as often gloomy weather, can cause stress, which is a well-known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Stress can also affect the immune system and promote inflammation.
It's important to note that each person's skin and psoriasis may respond differently to external factors. Some struggle with stress-related flare-ups, while others may not be affected by stress but are sensitive to dry indoor air. However, there are certain tips and tricks to significantly reduce the chances of flare-ups during the winter.
Proper Treatment: Keeping the skin adequately moisturized is essential during winter. A cortisone-free, natural cream like Alnovat protects the skin with valuable oils and reduces further scaling and cracking. The good news is that it's suitable for long-term therapy and can be used even after winter.
Bundle Up: In winter, comfort should take precedence over style. Even though thick sweaters, scarves, and hats might not be runway-worthy, it's crucial not to neglect warm clothing in winter. Dress warmly to protect your skin from the cold and dry air.
Support the Immune System: As mentioned earlier, vitamin D supplementation is recommended during the winter in most northern European countries. Equally important is the intake of vitamin C and zinc. Whether through your diet or dietary supplements, these vitamins provide long-term support to your immune system and can significantly reduce the severity of psoriasis flare-ups.
Stress Management: Pre-Christmas stress, as described above, is one aspect of December. However, winter can also provide incredibly cozy and restful moments. Finding a healthy balance in your daily routine is beneficial. Integrating practices like meditation, yoga, or similar activities supports this balance. Our additional secret tip: light some candles, grab your warm blanket, and watch your favorite movie. It works wonders against stress!
It's essential to understand that psoriasis is an individual condition. What helps one person may be counterproductive for another. If your flare-ups occur more frequently or the severity of symptoms increases due to the cold, we recommend consulting your dermatologist. Psoriasis in winter can undoubtedly be challenging, but with the right treatment and a positive mindset, it's definitely possible to overcome this challenge. You are not alone, and you can enjoy a cozy holiday season despite having psoriasis!