Living Well with Psoriasis: Practical Tips for Australians
Psoriasis, with its red, scaly patches, can cause discomfort, itchiness, and sometimes even self-consciousness. While there’s no cure, many practical tips can significantly improve your daily life and overall well-being. Remember, these are general suggestions, and consulting your doctor for personalized guidance is crucial.

Focus on Trigger Management:
- Identify your triggers: Stress, certain foods, and environmental factors can flare up your psoriasis. Keep a diary to track potential triggers and discuss them with your doctor.
- Minimise stress: Stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can significantly reduce flare-ups.
- Dietary adjustments: Consider consulting a nutritionist to explore potential food sensitivities and develop an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Manage alcohol and smoking: Both can worsen psoriasis symptoms. Consider reducing or quitting altogether.
Gentle Skincare Regimen:
- Moisturise religiously: Use fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers several times a day to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness, which can exacerbate itching. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter.
- Avoid harsh soaps and detergents: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin.
- Soothe with lukewarm baths: Add baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to your bathwater for added relief. Avoid hot water and excessive bathing, which can strip away natural oils.
- Sunscreen is essential: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.
Seeking Professional Support:
- Consult your doctor regularly: They can monitor your condition, adjust treatment plans, and address any concerns you have.
- Explore different treatment options: Depending on the severity and location of your psoriasis, various treatments are available, including topical medications, phototherapy, or biologics. Discuss the best options with your doctor.
- Consider support groups: Connecting with others who understand your struggles can offer emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.
Additional Tips for Enhanced Comfort:
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton.
- Trim your nails to minimise scratching, which can worsen your psoriasis.
- Manage stress triggers, like excessive work hours or chaotic environments.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night, as poor sleep can contribute to flare-ups.
- Explore relaxation techniques: Mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can significantly reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Remember:
- Managing psoriasis is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, consistent with your treatment plan, and proactive in identifying and minimizing triggers.
- Every individual is different: What works for one person might not work for another. Adapt these tips to your specific needs and preferences.
- Don’t hesitate to seek professional help: Your doctor is a valuable resource for managing your psoriasis and improving your quality of life.