Top 5 Triggers for Psoriasis Flare-Ups and How to Avoid Them

Psoriasis is a complex condition with triggers that vary from person to person. However, there are some well-researched and common culprits that can exacerbate symptoms. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top five triggers, why they affect psoriasis-prone skin, and actionable tips to avoid them.

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1. Stress: A Major Culprit

- Why Stress Worsens Psoriasis
Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can lead to systemic inflammation. For people with psoriasis, whose immune systems are already overactive, this heightened inflammatory response can worsen symptoms. Stress also creates a feedback loop: visible flare-ups increase stress, perpetuating the cycle.

- Evidence
A study published in the *Journal of Investigative Dermatology* found that stress is one of the most commonly reported triggers for psoriasis flares. Another review in *Psychosomatic Medicine* highlighted that relaxation techniques can help reduce disease severity.

- How to Manage Stress
Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine. Even five minutes a day can significantly lower cortisol levels.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise not only reduces stress but also improves circulation, which can help your skin heal more effectively.
Self-Care Routines: Transform your skincare routine into a calming ritual. Use products with soothing ingredients like chamomile and calendula to relax both your mind and skin.

Solo Skin Solution: Try using our *Night Face oil* as part of a nightly self-care ritual. Massage it into your skin as the last step in your routine, whilst focusing on slow, mindful breathing. Our customers often incorporate a gua sha in their routines.

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2. Cold, Dry Weather

-Why Weather Affects Psoriasis
Cold temperatures and low humidity sap moisture from the skin, leaving it dry and prone to cracking. Indoor heating further exacerbates dryness, leading to increased irritation. For people with psoriasis, this combination often results in more severe flare-ups during winter months.

-Evidence
A study published in the *British Journal of Dermatology* highlighted that psoriasis symptoms often worsen in winter due to reduced UV exposure and increased dryness.

-How to Protect Your Skin
Moisturize Frequently: Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer at least twice a day. For best results, apply immediately after bathing to trap moisture.
Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to indoor air can help prevent skin from drying out.
-Protect Your Skin Outdoors: Wear gloves, scarves, and other protective clothing to shield your skin from harsh winds.

Solo Skin Solution: Our *Hyaluronic Hydration Serum with Cucumber Water* is ideal for maintaining hydration during the colder months. It provides lightweight yet long-lasting moisture to help combat dryness.

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3. Diet and Food Sensitivities

-How Diet Affects Psoriasis
While diet isn’t the direct cause of psoriasis, certain foods can increase systemic inflammation, making symptoms worse. Processed sugars, dairy, gluten, and nightshade vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, potatoes) are common culprits. On the other hand, anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce flare-ups.

-Evidence
A study in *Dermatologic Therapy* found that participants who followed an anti-inflammatory diet experienced fewer psoriasis symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, were noted for their positive impact on skin health.

-How to Identify and Avoid Triggers
Keep a Food Diary: Record what you eat and any changes in your skin to identify personal triggers.
Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds), antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens), and healthy fats (like avocados and olive oil).
Avoid Processed Foods: Limit consumption of sugary, fried, or heavily processed items that can promote inflammation.

Solo Skin Tip: Complement your anti-inflammatory diet with skincare products that calm inflammation externally, such as our *Nourishing Body Oil*, which contains anti-itching oat and perilla seed oils.

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4. Harsh Skincare Products

-Why Skincare Ingredients Matter
Many conventional skincare products contain harsh chemicals like alcohol, fragrances, and sulfates that can irritate psoriasis-prone skin. These ingredients strip the skin’s natural oils and weaken its barrier, making it more susceptible to inflammation and dryness.

-Evidence
Research in *Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology* confirmed that gentle, emollient-rich skincare products are crucial for managing psoriasis symptoms. Avoiding irritants helps maintain the skin’s barrier function and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

-How to Choose the Right Products
Read Labels: Avoid products with synthetic fragrances, alcohol, and sulfates. Look for “fragrance-free” and “dermatologist-tested” labels.
Go Natural: Opt for skincare with plant-based ingredients like Olive Squalane, calendula, and Oat oil, which soothe irritated skin.
Patch-Test New Products: Always test new products on a small area of skin before full application to ensure they don’t cause irritation.

Solo Skin Solution: All our products are formulated with sensitive skin in mind. The *Nourishing Body Oil and Night face oil* is perfect for nourishing and protecting dry, irritated patches without introducing harsh ingredients. Our products are officially dermatologically tested and approved, and suitable for sensitive skin.

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5. Infections and Illness

-Why Illness Triggers Psoriasis
Infections and illnesses, such as strep throat or the flu, put additional strain on the immune system. For people with psoriasis, this can lead to flare-ups or even new forms of psoriasis, like guttate psoriasis, which is often associated with strep throat.

-Evidence
A study published in the *British Journal of Dermatology* showed a strong correlation between respiratory infections and guttate psoriasis. Strengthening the immune system can help reduce the risk of these triggers.

-How to Stay Healthy
Boost Your Immune System: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics to support immune health.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body functioning optimally.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you suspect an infection, consult a healthcare professional to prevent it from worsening or triggering a flare-up.

Solo Skin Tip: Incorporate products like our *Hyaluronic Hydration Serum* to keep your skin barrier strong and hydrated, reducing vulnerability to flare-ups during illness.

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Takeaway: Building a Psoriasis Management Plan

While psoriasis triggers can feel overwhelming, identifying and managing them is key to living more comfortably. By addressing stress, protecting your skin during cold weather, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, using gentle skincare, and staying healthy, you can minimize flare-ups and improve your quality of life.

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Let Us Support Your Journey
At Solo Skin, we understand the challenges of living with psoriasis. Our dermatologist-approved, natural skincare products are designed to nourish, soothe, and protect your skin—because you deserve to feel confident and cared for.

**Explore our range** at [Solo Skin London](https://soloskinlondon.com) and follow us on Instagram [@soloskinlondon](https://instagram.com/soloskinlondon) for more tips, community support, and real stories. 🌿