Check out our storefront for self-advocacy tools and consultations. Or leave us a tip to show your support. Welcome to Patient Empowerment Pulse: Real-Life Wisdom from a Professional Patient Who I Am Welcome to Patient Empowerment Pulse, a blog built on the hard-won wisdom of someone who’s lived both sides of the healthcare divide. I’m Joanna, and this is more than just a health blog—it’s a survival guide for anyone trying to navigate chronic illness, complicated care teams, and a medical system that often feels like it’s working against you. I didn’t set out to become a professional patient. I trained for a career in culinary arts. But life had other plans. Over the years, I was diagnosed with lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, spondylitic arthritis, inflammatory-onset diabetes, and a growing list of related conditions. That’s when I discovered that all my professional training didn’t fully prepare me for what it means to actually live this every day. This blog is where I share the str...
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If you’re living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), you know it’s not just about joint pain. PsA often comes with complex skin challenges that go far beyond occasional dryness or breakouts. Psoriasis-related flares, sensitivity, irritation, and unpredictable skin changes can all become part of your daily experience.
So how do you build a skincare routine that respects your body, supports your condition, and actually works—without triggering more flares?
This article offers gentle, evidence-informed guidance for creating a skincare routine that supports your skin without overpromising or crossing into medical advice territory. Always check with your dermatologist or rheumatologist for personalized recommendations.
What Makes PsA Skin Different?
Psoriatic arthritis often includes psoriasis—a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red, scaly, itchy plaques. Even when plaques aren’t visible, systemic inflammation may still affect skin texture, moisture retention, and sensitivity.
People with PsA often experience:
- Extremely dry or flaky skin
- Sensitivity to fragrance, dyes, or alcohol-based products
- Thin or fragile skin from steroid use
- Increased risk of skin infections or irritation
- Flare cycles triggered by stress, weather, allergens, or ingredients
Understanding these sensitivities is the first step to creating a skincare routine that doesn’t do more harm than good.
Skincare Principles for PsA
1. Less Is More
Stick to a basic, consistent routine. Overloading your skin with too many products—even natural ones—can increase inflammation or barrier disruption. A good rule of thumb: Cleanse, moisturize, protect.
2. Avoid Common Irritants
Choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free, dye-free products whenever possible. Even products labeled “natural” can contain essential oils or plant extracts that irritate sensitive skin.
Look for labels that say:
- “For sensitive skin”
- “Accepted by the National Psoriasis Foundation”
- “Dermatologist-tested”
3. Hydration Is Key
Daily moisturizing helps maintain your skin barrier and reduces flaking. Look for:
- Humectants (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid)
- Occlusives (like petrolatum, squalane, or dimethicone)
- Emollients (like shea butter or ceramides)
Apply moisturizers while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
4. Sun Protection Matters
While light therapy is sometimes prescribed for psoriasis, uncontrolled sun exposure can lead to burns, irritation, or new flares. Look for mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that are less likely to irritate.
5. Patch Test New Products
Before applying a new product to large areas, test it on a small patch of skin for a few days. This simple step can help you avoid unnecessary flares.
Building Your Routine (PsA-Friendly Version)
Morning:
- Gentle, non-foaming cleanser (or rinse with warm water if skin isn’t oily)
- Fragrance-free moisturizer with ceramides
- Mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Evening:
- Gentle cleanse to remove sunscreen and sweat
- Richer moisturizer or overnight balm, especially on dry areas
If you’re using any prescribed topical treatments (like corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs), apply them exactly as directed and avoid layering active cosmetic ingredients on top unless your doctor clears it.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Some symptoms should always be addressed by a professional:
- Rapidly spreading rashes or plaques
- Skin that cracks or bleeds persistently
- Signs of infection (redness, heat, swelling, pus)
- Burning, stinging, or pain from topical treatments
Your care team can help fine-tune your approach and may refer you to a dermatologist familiar with autoimmune skin conditions.
Final Thought: Be Kind to Your Skin—and Yourself
Living with PsA means learning how to care for a body that doesn’t always play by the rules. Your skin may change from week to week. What works today might not work tomorrow. That’s not failure—it’s just part of the journey.
Gentle, consistent care can go a long way. So can grace. Be patient with your skin. It’s fighting a hard battle, too.
If this guide helped you feel more confident in your skin, consider leaving a tip to support our work at ko-fi.com/patientempowermentpulse. Every contribution helps us keep creating resources that empower patients living with chronic conditions.
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