How a Beach Day Can Help Your Psoriasis

With the summer in full swing, millions of people hit the road with family and friends to enjoy all that the season has to offer. No matter where you are headed, be sure to make a stop at the beach every now and then, especially if you have psoriasis. Those who have psoriasis tend to crave the warmer weather because it means a bit of relief from the skin condition.

Sun, Sun, Sun

As the Beach Boys once sang, “Fun, fun, fun;” it’s time to get some sun, sun, sun this summer if you have psoriasis. The sun helps to improve psoriasis, which is why you should hit the beach as often as possible. The first direct exposure to sun should only last five minutes. Then move that exposure time up to 15 minutes if you can.

Be sure to put sunscreen on all exposed skin except for areas with psoriasis. Sunburn can trigger flares in psoriasis, however, so be sure not to sunbathe for more than 15 minutes. If you do choose to sunbathe for more than 15 minutes, put sunscreen on your psoriasis patches, preferably one that is made for sensitive skin.

If you are weary of sunbathing with psoriasis, do so outside of the peak sun hours of 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. You can still get plenty of sunshine to help with your psoriasis prior to 11 and after 3, so be sure to soak up the sun in that timeframe.

Swim in Salt Water

If you are spending a day at the beach, you might as well go for a swim too, especially if you are near salt water. The salt water helps to heal the skin and get rid of dead cells. Salt water can cause skin dryness, so be sure to put moisturizer on your skin after a swim, but only after you have thoroughly rinsed your body.

No Bug Bites!

A trip to the beach wouldn’t be complete without swatting away those pesky bugs! Do your best to avoid bug bites when on the beach with psoriasis. Bug bites will only cause your psoriasis to become more irritated. Insect repellents with low levels of DEET are effective when it comes to reducing bug bites, so remember to pack some when heading out for the day!

Don’t Forget Creams

Even though the summer sun and salt water can help to reduce your psoriasis, you shouldn’t stop applying those skin creams. There’s nothing wrong with combining the effects of a day at the beach with the skin creams you already use. Just be sure to speak with a dermatologist about the cream you use and how it can help or hurt your psoriasis if you are hitting the beach this summer.

Contact the friendly and experienced staff at Windsor Dermatology in East Windsor, NJ today to discuss your psoriasis and how you can improve the condition. The office can be reached at 609-443-4500.

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