What Is Skin & Hair Psoriasis?

Your skin is one of the first things people see when they meet you.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that can be embarrassing and stressful. While the cause of the skin disease is unclear, there are a number of basic skin care treatments that can be used to minimize outbreaks.

Basics

According to Skincarephysicians.com, psoriasis presents itself as thick, white, silvery or red patches on the skin. They form because your new skin cells that are supposed to replace dead skin grow in days instead of weeks like they are supposed to.

Causes

According to MSN Health, some experts believe that psoriasis afflicts someone when their immune system overreacts. This over reaction causes inflammation in the skin and flaking. Researchers are still studying this chronic skin disease and studies suggest that it runs in the family.

Treatment

While psoriasis has no cure, it is not life-threatening. Basic skin care is the best way to deal with psoriasis. Keep your skin moisturized, avoid long exposure to the sun, and use skin and shampoo products that contain salicylic acid. Be aware of things that trigger outbreaks, such as smoking or alcohol and stress or anxiety.

Hair

Psoriasis can also affect the scalp, and therefore your hair. Psoriasis patches can cause your hair to fall out when you try to remove the patches. Keep your scalp moisturized and use shampoos with tar or salicylic acid.

References

• Skin Care Physicians: PsoriasisNet--Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis
• MSN Health: Psoriasis