The best way to bathe or shower for psoriasis can vary based on individual factors and preferences, but there are some general principles to keep in mind.
Resist the temptation to warm up with a long bath or shower. “We know that long, hot showers can lead to dry skin and, by extension, a compromised skin barrier,” says Kimberly Katz, MD, a dermatologist at UW Medicine in Seattle. “Dry skin can worsen the sensation of itch and irritation.”
Typically, “The goal is to limit showers to about 5 minutes and baths to 15 minutes or less” to avoid skin drying or irritation, says Lauren Taglia, MD, PhD, a dermatologist at Northwestern Medicine in Geneva, Illinois. “Be sure to rinse off thoroughly and blot your skin gently with a towel until you are damp, not dry,” to avoid overdrying or irritation as well.
Especially during colder months, it’s important to apply a moisturizer after every bath or shower to help “seal in” moisture, Dr. Taglia says.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following steps to avoid dry or irritated skin from bathing:
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- Use warm, not hot, water
- Don’t take more than one bath or shower in a day
- Use a gentle soap made for sensitive skin
- Wash your body with your hands, not a washcloth or loofah
Some people find that a bath containing ingredients like Dead Sea salts, colloidal oatmeal, or coal tar can be soothing. But since coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying it.
Avoid cleansers or bath preparations that contain harsh or drying ingredients like alcohol, artificial fragrances and dyes, and sulfates.
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If you have scalp psoriasis, it’s important not to irritate your scalp while washing your hair. “Remember to gently massage when shampooing and to avoid scratching or picking at areas of involvement,” says Taglia. If you’re using a targeted shampoo that contains salicylic acid or coal tar, be sure to let it sit on your scalp for at least five minutes before rinsing it off.
