Best Places to Live if You Have Psoriasis
There are many triggers that contribute to psoriasis. Whether it’s from stress, diet, skin trauma, or medication, it’s important to address the underlying cause(s) of your personal flare-ups.
Since there is no cure for psoriasis, it’s important to consider environmental variables when planning where to live. One common trigger that affects nearly everyone with skin disorders, including those with psoriasis, is the weather. That is why some climates are better suited for individuals with psoriasis than others.
Although there isn’t a magical one-size-fits-all solution, you can take steps to improve your quality of life — starting with where you live.
The Link Between Psoriasis and Changes in Weather
Research shows that a change in seasons can worsen symptoms of psoriasis.
A 2015 study found that patients with psoriasis have clearer skin during the summer months when compared to the winter months. This often causes moderate to severe symptoms. These seasonal shifts in disease severity are often due to changes in sunlight exposure. Since moderate amounts of UV light can improve symptoms of psoriasis, summer is the best season for most individuals
Fall and winter also bring dry air and colder temperatures, both of which irritate already sensitive skin.
Some researchers are also interested in the relationship between dark days and your mood. Seasonal affective disorder, which is depression linked to less sunlight, can make the winter months extra challenging in individuals with psoriasis. Also, depression can be a silent symptom of psoriasis so it’s important to seek treatment.
In summary:
- Cold weather can cause flare-ups due to less humidity and sunlight, as well as increased exposure to heated, dry air indoors
- Warm weather can improve symptoms of psoriasis because of higher humidity and more natural sunlight
The Best Locations to Live When You Have Psoriasis
When considering the best weather for psoriasis and recurring flare-ups, geographical location plays a significant role.
This has been reported by many psoriasis patients, as moving to warm, sunny areas can improve symptom severity and the frequency of flare-ups. For example, Chelsea Hull-Williams once lived in Alaska before moving to California when she was eight years old. Prior to moving, her psoriasis was so bad that she would bleed. After arriving in sunny California, her skin almost completely cleared up. When she was 11 years old, her family moved to Kansas. Her first winter in Kansas, her psoriasis worsened again.
Warm, sunny regions are preferred over cold, dry climates as these can lead to dry skin.
I would consider omitting this entire segment. I read this source several times and can’t really make sense of it. It sounds like they’re saying the Midwest isn’t ideal because the access to certain medications (like biologics) aren’t readily available. However, I think the wording is strange and difficult to follow. If someone clicks on that link, I think they will have a hard time interpreting that study.
Traveling with Psoriasis
If you’re not ready to move to a warm climate, there are several psoriasis-friendly hotspots you may be interested in traveling to.
The following places will allow you to unwind and will potentially help your skin at the same time.
- Florida– Not only is the weather warm and moist, swimming in the ocean may help those suffering from psoriasis symptoms.
- The Mediterranean Sea– The weather here is warm and sunny, and while you’re here, you can enjoy the Mediterranean diet. You may find some new favorite recipes, benefiting you for years to come. Research shows that a Mediterranean diet may reduce psoriasis severity.
- Soap Lake, Washington– The mineral-rich waters and mud of Soap Lake are perfect for psoriasis patients. Summer temperatures are also in the 80s and 90s.
- Avène Thermal Spring, France– At the Avène Hydrotherapy Centre, you can enjoy psoriasis treatment programs, reducing inflammation while cleansing lesions. France is also an amazing place to reduce stress levels.
Take Action to Help Treat Your Psoriasis
Since psoriasis symptoms vary from one individual to the next, there is no single “right” treatment. Finding the right treatment for you may take some trial and error. Most often, the best treatment plans incorporate various remedies and lifestyle changes. Taking simple steps towards healthier skin can make a big difference.
Although you will want to speak to your physician about your symptoms and the best possible treatment plan, there are certain lifestyle tips that will help you better control your symptoms, starting today.
- Eat a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet and stay hydrated
- If you smoke, consider quitting
- While sun exposure can be beneficial, too much can have the opposite effect (take steps to protect yourself and reduce your risk of sunscreen)
- Invest in quality products to reduce scaling and itching — use a quality moisturizer every day, as well as a psoriasis shampoo
- Manage stress levels, as this is a common trigger for flare-ups
- Of course, moving to another climate isn’t always a feasible option. If this is the case for you, it’s important to consider the lifestyle tips above and speak to your physician about alternative treatments such as light therapy.
Whether you suffer from psoriasis, eczema, dry skin or another skin condition, Summers Laboratories offers a wide range of quality products. Our goal is to provide skincare solutions, as well as continued support.
Sources:
https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(15)01740-5/fulltext
https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/psoriasis-treatment-management/psoriasis-chelseas-story/
https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/mediterranean-diet-may-reduce-psoriasis-severity
https://www.avenecenter.com/en/treatment/psoriasis
