Plaque Psoriasis Winter Care: Essential Tips

Winter can feel like a nightmare for anyone with plaque psoriasis. The cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating all dry out your skin, making plaques itchier and more inflamed. The good news is you don’t have to suffer through the season. A few everyday tweaks can keep your skin calm and your confidence high.

Moisturizing and Bathing

The single most important thing you can do is keep your skin well‑moisturized. Aim for a thick, fragrance‑free cream or ointment—think petrolatum, shea butter, or a ceramide‑rich formula. Apply it right after you get out of the shower while the skin is still damp; this locks in moisture where it matters most.

Speaking of showers, they should be short and warm—not hot. Hot water strips the skin’s natural oils, leaving plaques even drier. Limit baths to 5‑10 minutes and use a gentle, sulfate‑free cleanser. If you like to add bath oils, choose ones without added fragrances, as they can trigger irritation.

Don’t forget your hands and feet. These areas often get the worst of the cold, and psoriasis loves the cracks that appear there. Slip on a pair of cotton gloves after you moisturize your hands, and use thick foot cream before bed. A quick rubber bootie over the gloves can give extra protection overnight.

Clothing and Lifestyle

What you wear matters. Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo for everyday clothes. Avoid wool or rough synthetics directly on plaques—they can cause friction and flare‑ups. If you need to brave the cold outdoors, layer with a smooth under‑garment (a silk or modal long‑sleeve works well) and then add a wind‑proof outer layer.

Humidifiers are a simple but overlooked tool. Running one in your bedroom adds moisture back into the air, which helps keep skin from cracking overnight. Aim for a humidity level of about 40‑50%.

Stay hydrated, too. Drinking enough water isn’t a cure, but dehydration makes the skin’s barrier weaker. Carry a water bottle and sip throughout the day.

Stress spikes in winter—holiday rush, shorter days, cold blues. Stress can trigger psoriasis flares, so find a quick stress‑busting habit. Even a five‑minute breathing exercise or a short walk during daylight can make a difference.

Finally, keep your medication routine on track. If you use topical steroids or vitamin D analogues, apply them as directed, even when the skin looks better. Skipping a dose can let the disease rebound when the cold hits.

Winter doesn’t have to mean miserable plaques. By moisturizing smartly, dressing gently, and adding a few lifestyle tweaks, you can keep your skin smooth and your days bright. Remember, consistency is key—small daily actions add up to big relief.