Psoriasis is a condition where skin cells grow at an abnormally fast rate. Instead of skin forming in around 4 weeks, those with psoriasis experience skin cell formation in only around 4 days. The body is not able to slough off these excess skin cells fast enough. This results in layers of thick, red skin. Lesions may also form. The skin may also be scaly, flaky and itchy. Psoriasis is commonly found in the scalp, elbows and knees. It can also show up in other areas, more particularly the face, which makes it problematic for those who are concerned about their appearance.

Facial psoriasis

Psoriasis in the face is usually found in the area between the upper lip and the nose, the eyebrows, the hairline and upper forehead. There may also be some scaling in the eyelids and lashes, which can lead to the eyes being irritated. Psoriasis may also show up in the ears, where there is a scaly buildup of excess skin. There may be a temporary loss of hearing due to the blockage caused by the scale buildup.

Psoriasis facts

It is important to note that psoriasis is not contagious. You don’t get psoriasis from swimming in the pool or kissing and being intimate with someone who has psoriasis. In fact, you can touch someone with psoriasis and will not be “infected” with this skin condition.  Psoriasis is believed to be genetic and is due to a problem with the body’s immune system. There are no bacteria which you can “catch” for you to get this skin condition.  However, since psoriasis is genetic in nature, one can inherit this condition from parents.

The psoriasis may be triggered by an event – such as stress, getting strep throat or having a skin injury.

Skin Care Regimen for Those with Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis, your skin tends to be more sensitive than usual. It is important for one to come to terms with the fact that one has psoriasis. But that does not limit you from doing what you can to look fabulous. You can still do something to take control of your skin and enjoy life to the fullest.

To properly take care of psoriasis-prone skin, you should visit a doctor that will give you treatment strategies for dealing with psoriasis. These include the use of topical solutions, medications and laser or ultraviolet light treatments. You should also make sure that your skin gets adequate TLC (tender loving care) to minimize the negative effects of psoriasis. Here are some ways you can take care of your skin:

-          Minimize exposure to the sun. When going out, be sure to use a good sunscreen such as Obagi NuDerm Healthy Skin Pro SPF 35.

-          Use conditioners for your hair if there are psoriasis symptoms in the scalp. Avoid medicated shampoos unless prescribed by the doctor – these shampoos tend to dry the scalp and cause more irritations.

-          Cleanse your face daily, especially before going to bed. Use a gentle facial wash such as Obagi ClenziDerm Daily Care Foaming Cleanser. Clean gently around the eye area.

-          Avoid the temptation of picking at or popping blemishes in your skin. Use your hair to cover the blemish or apply a cream that can dry the breakout.

-          Use moisturizers that are specially gentle and ideal for psoriasis-prone skin. For instance,Obagi NuDerm Tolereen is ideal for soothing irritated and sensitive skin. It is quickly absorbed by the skin and provides your skin with a healthy pH balance.

-          Use cosmetics that are gentle on sensitive skin. Choose make-up that is long lasting, water-resistant and the type that won’t stain clothing.

-          Before applying makeup, be sure to apply a moisturizer and anti-wrinkle cream, as well as your sunscreen.

-          Cotton pillowcases can leave marks on your face while you sleep. Switch to silk pillowcases.

-          Manage stress. Stress can be a common trigger for a psoriasis flare-up. To minimize this, identify strategies to help you manage your anger, anxiety and other negative feelings.

Psoriasis is not curable. But with a can-do attitude, you can still love the skin you’re in and make those steps towards looking as gorgeous as you can be. With quality cosmetics from the Obagi skin care products, you can get help in giving your psoriasis-prone skin the proper care it needs.