Psoriasis and Your Wardrobe: How Clothing Affects The Skin

Persons who are dealing with a psoriasis flare-up usually opt for clothing that covers up the irritated skin.

However, if you don’t choose the right type of clothes, you’ll only end up making the problem worse. The key is finding a wardrobe that is both functional and soothing. 

How Clothing Affects Psoriasis

While the exact cause of psoriasis has not yet been identified, the prevailing medical opinion is that the skin disorder is related to an issue with the immune system.

The result is a build-up of skin cells in affected areas that can be dry, itchy, cracked, and swollen.

The areas also become fragile and so the constant itching typically results in bleeding. 

When having a flare-up, materials that are clingy or promote sweating can make skin irritation worse.

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If the affected areas are already bleeding, wearing clothing that can stick to the open wounds may interfere with healing and encourage an infection to take hold.

Tips For Finding The Right Clothes

These are a few things to look for when choosing your ideal wardrobe. 

• Choose the right material – The last thing irritated skin needs is material that is clingy or doesn’t give it room to breathe. Wool and polyester are terrible options for persons with psoriasis. Cotton, linen, and satin blends are more likely to absorbs sweat from the body while keeping things cool. 
• Add a protective layer – If you want to wear clothing that might irritate your sensitive skin, consider adding a protective barrier. Cotton undershirts are useful for this. Layering will also come in handy during the colder months when you need to be warm and comfortable.
• Look for loose-fitting clothing – Clothes that stick to your body may also irritate the scales that form over affected spots. Your best bet is to go for clothes that give your skin room to heal. 
• Be selective with exercise clothes – Exercising usually includes a lot of sweating and friction. To accomplish your workout without irritating your psoriasis, go for clothing that actively draws sweat away from the skin. Clothing made from natural fibers can offer what you need. 
• Consider scarves or shrugs – Whenever it’s not possible to keep covered up all day, scarves and shrugs are a great way to reduce irritation and keep a flare-up from prying eyes. Just make sure to choose the right materials for these as well. 
• Go for comfortable shoes – Psoriasis can affect all over the body so don’t forget about your skin. Ill-fitting shoes can cause friction that makes a flare-up worse. If you have naturally sweaty feet, consider wearing cotton socks as well as breathable shoes when possible. 

Other Important Factors

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Of course, caring for your skin is essential when you have psoriasis. Since the disorder is characterized by dry, itchy skin, keeping your body moisturized will be key to managing your symptoms.

Some dermatologists also suggest avoiding skincare products and laundry detergents that have fragrances. 

Using sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from harmful UV rays may also be helpful for psoriasis.

However, depending on how bad your case is, this might not be enough. Consulting a dermatologist is the best way to identify the severity of your psoriasis as well as develop an effective treatment plan. 

It’s important to note that the symptoms of psoriasis may look slightly different for African Americans so don’t leave any information out when seeing the doctor. For example, irritated skin may appear as violet instead of red.

As long as there is a change in your skin, point it out.

Millions of people deal with psoriasis so you’re not alone. It’s good to know that making small adjustments to your wardrobe can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of flare-ups as well as soothing irritated skin.