Key takeaways
- Some natural remedies, such as aloe vera, may help reduce psoriasis discoloration and scaling. People can look for moisturizers that contain aloe vera or use aloe vera gel.
- Taking warm baths containing colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts may also help to soothe symptoms and relieve itching. To prevent moisture loss, follow with moisturizer while the skin is still damp.
- Exposure to UVB rays in sunlight may help slow the growth of skin cells. However, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential, as sunburn can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Some home remedies may help soothe the symptoms of psoriasis. Examples include applying aloe vera or moisturizers and taking an oatmeal bath.
Psoriasis causes a person to develop scaly patches of skin called plaques. Plaques usually appear on the elbows, knees, and scalp but can develop anywhere.
Before using home remedies, speaking with a doctor may be a good idea. Home remedies tend to work best when used alongside medical treatment. It is also important to monitor psoriasis symptoms to ensure the remedies are not worsening them.
This article explains what home remedies may work for treating psoriasis.
Exposure to sunlight can sometimes improve the appearance of the skin when a person has psoriasis. People should expose their skin gradually and for brief periods.
The sun’s UVB rays are beneficial for psoriasis symptoms as they can slow the growth of affected skin cells.
It is essential to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including plaques, as sunburn can worsen psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) advises using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Some medications can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Not everyone should use sunlight to treat psoriasis. The NPF advises speaking with a doctor before exposing skin to the sun.
Those with a family history of skin cancer may need to stay out of the sun and seek other treatments.
Capsaicin, a component of red peppers, has demonstrated the ability to fight inflammation.
A study from 2020
People with psoriasis may use a capsaicin cream to treat skin plaques. This may initially cause a burning sensation and inflammation, but capsaicin may help nerves in the treated area become less sensitive to inflammation with further application. This can lead to less scaling, itching, and pain.
A more recent study suggests people could use capsaicin as an alternative to topical psoriasis treatments containing steroids. The study found that capsaicin application to affected areas created a protective effect that reduced the body’s ability to send signals, known as cytokines, for more inflammation.
Capsaicin creams are available over the counter.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria present in yogurt and fermented foods. People can also consume them in supplements.
The right balance of bacteria in the body may help the immune system. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, and
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A 2020 review went further,
There is insufficient research in this area, and people with psoriasis should check with a doctor before taking supplements to ensure it is safe.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric. It may lessen inflammation in the body and reduce psoriatic activity.
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Curcumin is available in pill or capsule form.
Learn more about how curcumin can help people with psoriasis.
Oregon grape, or Mahonia aquifolium, is an herbal remedy that may help calm the immune response in psoriasis.
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Traditional medicine has long used gel inside the aloe vera plant to treat skin wounds. Applying an ointment containing aloe vera may also help reduce the scaling and inflammation that psoriasis causes.
The NPF states that aloe vera can reduce discoloration from psoriasis and reduce scaling.
People should apply aloe vera to the skin and avoid taking it internally. The NPF recommends choosing a cream or gel that contains at least 0.5% aloe.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that apple cider vinegar might help soothe the itching and burning caused by scalp psoriasis. However, it is not suitable for application to broken or cracked skin.
Apple cider vinegar contains natural germ-killing properties and can be soothing for the scalp. The NPF suggests applying it a few times per week.
For a gentler treatment, a person can dilute the vinegar with equal parts water. If it burns during or after application, it is vital that the person stop using it.
A 2021 article in the
Studies suggest tea tree oil has natural anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Anecdotal evidence suggests it is a safe treatment for people with psoriasis.
However, there are no clinical studies on the effectiveness or safety of tea tree oil in treating psoriasis.
Some people have also reported allergic reactions to tea tree oil, including severe rashes, discoloration, irritation, swelling, and burning.
Therefore, people should know the side effects and speak with a doctor before using tea tree oil to treat psoriasis.
Learn more about how tea tree oil can help people with psoriasis.
Itching and flaking can worsen psoriasis symptoms, so it is essential to keep skin moisturized.
The AAD notes that moisturizing creams, or emollients, are a standard treatment to use alongside other therapies.
Applying a heavy ointment or thick cream at least once daily may help control symptoms and keep the skin comfortable.
People should look for products free of fragrances and dyes with the label “for sensitive skin.”
Doctors may also recommend topical treatments and creams containing coal tar, salicylic acid, and other medicinal ingredients.
Baths and showers can be relaxing, but those that are too long or hot can strip the skin of its oils, making psoriasis worse.
Some people find that a warm bath containing colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts is soothing and relieves symptoms.
Research shows that colloidal oatmeal lotion can reduce itching, and a warm bath containing a suitable bath oil can help moisturize the skin.
Wet wraps provide a simple option for treating psoriasis and may reduce symptoms quickly.
After bathing, applying an appropriate moisturizer while the skin is still damp can help prevent moisture loss.
Some people with psoriasis may be more likely to be overweight and have a higher risk of some other conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Exercise can help lower this risk.
Diet is also key to maintaining a moderate weight and avoiding cardiovascular issues and other types of illness.
Tips that may help include:
- avoiding sugar
- drinking plenty of water to keep the skin moisturized
- cutting out trans fats, which are present in many fast and processed foods
- eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, including foods containing omega-3 fatty acids and many fruits and vegetables
Learn more about how diet can affect psoriasis.
Other home remedies that people have tried include:
- acupressure
- acupuncture
- massage
- reiki
- yoga or tai chi
Researchers need to conduct more studies into how these might benefit someone with psoriasis.
However, acupuncture and massage can help relieve pain, and they may benefit someone with psoriatic arthritis.
People may wish to speak with a doctor before undergoing any treatment involving essential oils, such as a massage, as some of these products may worsen symptoms. A doctor can offer advice on suitable products.
Psoriasis tends to involve flares, which is when symptoms get worse, and periods of remission, which is when symptoms are absent.
Avoiding triggers, where possible, may help prevent a flare.
Common triggers include:
- stress
- smoking
- skin injury, including cuts, scrapes, and sunburn
- certain medications, including some drugs for high blood pressure, psychiatric conditions, arthritis, and malaria
- infections and illnesses, such as strep throat, colds, and other common conditions
Triggers vary among individuals. People who can identify their triggers should find it easier to avoid them.
Learn more about different triggers for psoriasis.
Many treatments are available for psoriasis, and medical advances are producing treatment options that may be more effective than those in the past.
The main types of treatment available are:
- biologics, which are proving effective for moderate to severe symptoms
- systemics, which affect the whole body
- phototherapy, a type of light treatment that people can have in a doctor’s office
- new oral treatments, which prevent inflammation by inhibiting specific molecules
- topical treatments for applying to the skin
Finding the right option requires guidance from a medical professional, who will discuss any home remedies that may help.
What is the best treatment for psoriasis?
The best psoriasis treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition and the area of skin affected.
A doctor may recommend a combination of topical treatments, phototherapy, tablets, capsules, or injections to treat psoriasis.
Alternatively, a person may find that home remedies, such as curcumin, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and tea tree oil, help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis.
What clears psoriasis fast?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, any over-the-counter or prescription medication that contains corticosteroids works fast to:
- reduce the itch associated with psoriasis
- decrease the inflammation associated with psoriasis
Is there a cure for psoriasis?
There is currently no cure for psoriasis. However, many effective treatments can help people manage the condition.
People can sometimes manage mild psoriasis with home remedies alone. However, if symptoms worsen, speaking with a doctor about additional treatment options is best.
Individuals should discuss supplements, herbs, vitamins, or other home treatments with a doctor to ensure the therapy is suitable and safe.
Sometimes, natural treatments can interact with medications and cause problems for people with certain health conditions.
Many people with psoriasis can reduce or eliminate bothersome symptoms by trying different home remedies and medical treatments.