Can I put lotion on psoriasis? Which lotion is best for psoriasis?

If you have psoriasis, you may wonder if you can use lotion to soothe your dry, itchy, and scaly skin. The answer is yes, but not all lotions are suitable for psoriasis.

Here are some tips on how to choose the best lotion for psoriasis and how to apply it. The best lotions for psoriasis should contain one or more of the following ingredients:

Salicylic acid: This is a keratolytic agent that helps soften and remove psoriasis scales. It also reduces inflammation and itching.

Ceramides: These are natural lipids that help maintain the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss. They also repair damaged skin and restore its elasticity.

Coal tar: This is a byproduct of coal processing that slows down the growth of skin cells and reduces scaling, itching, and inflammation. It also helps improve the appearance of psoriasis patches.

Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce swelling, redness, and itching. They also suppress the immune system and prevent flare-ups. However, they should be used sparingly and under a doctor’s supervision, as they can cause side effects such as thinning of the skin, stretch marks, and infections.

The best lotions for psoriasis should also be fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic, as these can irritate the skin and worsen psoriasis symptoms. They should also be thick and creamy, as these provide more hydration than thin and watery lotions.

To get the most benefits from your lotion, you should apply it at least twice a day, preferably after bathing or showering. This is because warm water can dry out your skin and make it more prone to cracking and bleeding.

Applying lotion right after bathing can help lock in the moisture and prevent further evaporation. To apply lotion for psoriasis, follow these steps:

• Pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Do not rub or scratch your skin, as this can damage it and cause infections.
• Apply a generous amount of lotion to your affected areas. Massage it gently into your skin until it is fully absorbed. Do not apply too much pressure or friction, as this can irritate your skin and trigger a flare-up.
• Repeat the process for other areas of your body that need moisturizing. Pay special attention to your elbows, knees, scalp, and other areas that tend to be dry and scaly.
• Avoid wearing tight or rough clothing that can rub against your skin and cause chafing. Opt for loose-fitting and breathable fabrics that allow air circulation and prevent overheating.
• Reapply lotion as needed throughout the day, especially if you are exposed to cold, dry, or windy weather conditions that can dehydrate your skin.

There are many lotions available in the market that claim to be effective for psoriasis, but not all of them live up to their promises. To help you narrow down your choices, here are some examples of lotions that have positive reviews from users and experts:

• CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin: This lotion contains salicylic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. It exfoliates, moisturizes, soothes, and repairs the skin barrier. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
• MG217 Medicated Multi-Symptom Moisturizing Cream: This cream contains 3% salicylic acid, aloe vera, shea butter, avocado oil, bisabolol, and allantoin. It removes scales, hydrates, calms, and protects the skin. It is also fragrance-free and paraben-free .
• Psoriasin Deep Moisturizing Ointment: This ointment contains 2% coal tar, lanolin oil, petrolatum, and glycerin.