Psoriasis Tips: Sunbathing and Swimming

Summer is a season that many psoriasis patients look forward to, as most people show significant improvement in their psoriasis during the summer. The most important reason for the improvement is increased sun exposure, which is demonstrated to improve psoriasis. Phototherapy is a proven treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis, and summer sunlight provides similar benefits.

Why does the sun help psoriasis and how can I take advantage?

Most psoriasis patients have heard about UV therapy. UV light helps to suppress the immune response which is overactive in psoriasis patients, which is the cause of the plaques, which is dead skin that is being produced too quickly and prematurely. Sunlight helps slow down this process and many patients will find that their plaques go away or are significantly reduced during the summer. Sunbathing in moderation can help improve your psoriasis as long as you protect your skin properly.

Use sunscreen on areas of the skin that are unaffected by psoriasis, and don't stay in the sun long enough to cause a sunburn. Excessive exposure is both bad for your skin in the long-term, and can actually cause your psoriasis to flare.

Can I swim if I have open psoriasis lesions?

Summer is the time for swimming, and psoriasis shouldn't stop you from this fun pastime. Water can help soften and clear crusts of dead skin that is common in plaque psoriasis and can be beneficial that way. It is important to note, however, that long exposure to water can dry out the skin and further irritate psoriatic skin. After being out in the water, it is important to shower, and then moisturize the skin to keep it protected and healthy.

Is it safe to enter public swimming pools if I have psoriasis?

Psoriasis is not contagious, and it's perfectly safe for you to enter public swimming pools unless you have open sores or an infection. For some people, chlorine can be an irritant, causing their psoriasis to flare. This is not a common reaction, but can occur so it may be a good idea to try out swimming for short periods of time. After swimming, it is always a good idea to shower afterwards, and to apply moisturizers afterwards.