Summer: How to alleviate psoriasis during extreme heat?

In the summer, outdoor activities are common, which is good for your skin. Moderate exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is even beneficial for health and can improve the symptoms of psoriasis. A study showed that UV rays decreased the percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, which could explain the decrease in T lymphocytes observed by apoptosis in psoriatic lesions. However, if you plan to spend more than 15 minutes in direct sunlight, it is important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. A sunburn could worsen the symptoms of psoriasis, as it would cause additional skin inflammation.

Furthermore, during the summer, the skin tends to be more dehydrated than the rest of the year. However, thehydration and water content of the stratum corneum are key factors that allow the skin to perform its protective barrier function. Numerous studies have shown that the skin's protective barrier function decreases and that transepidermal water loss increases in psoriatic lesions. Therefore, it is important to hydrate the skin daily, and this advice is even more crucial in the summer. Opt for creams, balms or moisturizing lotions specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin. Avoid scented or colored products, as they could exacerbate skin irritations.

Swimming can also soothe your skin. Salt water is less irritating than chlorinated water, but if you swim in a chlorinated pool, make sure to rinse your skin with fresh water immediately afterwards. Indeed, the chlorine disrupts the natural skin barrier, dries out the skin and can cause irritation.