Yes. Cooler weather can trigger a psoriasis flare for some people. Cold, dry air outside and warm, dry air indoors can leave your skin feeling tight and itchy. You may see more flakes on patches you already have or find new spots that weren’t there a week ago. If this happens each time the weather cools in LaPlace, pay attention to what changes at home and in your skin care routine. A dermatologist in LaPlace can help you spot a pattern and decide what care you need.
Why Skin Can Feel Worse When the Weather Cools
When the air is dry, your skin can lose water more easily. Running the heat at home can make the air indoors feel dry, even when it’s damp outside. The outer layer of your skin, called the skin barrier, helps hold water in. When your skin dries out, spots with psoriasis may itch more or feel sore. If you notice dry skin on days when the heat runs a lot, make a note of it. That’s one clue you can share at a visit.
If the heat runs at night and your bedroom feels dry, a humidifier can add moisture to the air. Keep an eye on the windows. If you see water drops start to form on the glass, turn the unit down or use it less. For a portable unit, change the water each day and follow the maker’s cleaning instructions.
What a Flare Can Look and Feel Like
The most common type of psoriasis can cause thick, raised spots called psoriasis plaques. They often show up on the elbows, knees, or scalp. During a flare, you may see more scale or notice that a patch covers a larger area. Some spots look pink or red on lighter skin. On darker skin, they can look brown or purple. Pay attention to itching and soreness too. If a new rash keeps coming back, a skin exam can help find the cause.
Keep Showers Short and Moisturize Right After
A long, hot shower may feel good on a cold day, but it can leave your skin drier. Use warm water and aim for a shower of about five minutes. Wash gently with your hands and a mild cleanser. Pat your skin with a soft towel and leave it a little damp. Put on a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer within a few minutes. A cream or ointment can help hold water in your skin. Keep it by the towel so it’s easy to use right after you wash.
Your elbows and knees can feel dry again by the end of the day. Put on more moisturizing cream when your skin feels tight or dry. If you wash your hands often, apply some after you dry them. You can keep a small tube near the sink or in your bag for use at work. If you use prescribed psoriasis medicine, follow the directions your care team gave you. Ask them how to fit both the medicine and moisturizer into your routine.
Protect Itchy Spots From Rubbing
Notice where your winter clothes touch the spots that itch. A rough cuff may rub your wrist each time you reach for something. A tight band can press on a patch as you sit or walk. Try a soft cotton layer under a sweater and choose clothes that feel loose over sore areas. If you feel the urge to scratch, try a cool, damp cloth on the spot. Scratching can irritate the skin and make some patches worse.
Track What Changes From Week to Week
Take a photo when a patch changes, and write down the date. Note when the skin flare started and whether you had the heat on more often, switched soaps, or felt sick. A cold spell can happen at the same time as other changes in your life. A few notes can help your dermatologist look for psoriasis triggers. Also write down if the itch wakes you up or makes it hard to get through the day. Those details can help guide your care.
When to Ask for Help With a Flare
If patches spread, crack, bleed, or keep you awake, ask about psoriasis treatment in LaPlace. Tell your care team soon if you have new joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness, even if your skin is doing well. These can be signs of psoriatic arthritis, which can affect people with psoriasis. Bring your photos and a list of the creams and medicines you use. Your dermatologist can check your skin and talk with you about the next step.
Get Help With Psoriasis in LaPlace
If your skin gets worse when the weather cools, LaPlace Dermatology Clinic can check your symptoms and help you find a routine that fits your skin. Tell us when your flares started and what you’ve tried so far. Schedule a dermatology visit or call (985) 652-7191 to talk about your psoriasis care.