Summer Psoriasis Care: Managing Plaque Psoriasis in Hot Weather

When the temperature soars, keeping plaque psoriasis under control can feel like an impossible juggling act. The sun, sweat, and higher humidity all push flare‑ups into overdrive, but with a few practical tweaks you can stay comfortable and keep the patches at bay.

Why Summer Makes Psoriasis Flare

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic, immune‑mediated skin condition that produces raised, red‑scaly plaques. During summer, two main factors tend to aggravate it:

• Increased sun exposure can trigger a Koebner response where new lesions appear on irritated skin.
• Heat and sweat break down the skin barrier, making it easier for irritants to slip in.

Understanding these triggers is the first step toward a solid summer plan.

Hydration: Moisturize Before You Sunbathe

A well‑hydrated barrier is your best defense. Apply a thick, fragrance‑free moisturizer at least twice a day - especially after showering and before heading outdoors. Look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.

Moisturizer should be a staple in your bag, ready for quick re‑application after swimming or sweating.

Sun Protection Without Skipping the Sun

Sunlight isn’t all villain; moderate UVB can actually improve psoriasis for many people. The trick is to protect the skin while still getting a safe dose of light.

Choose a sunscreen that balances broad‑spectrum protection with a lower SPF (15‑30) if you’re using phototherapy or have a history of sunburns. Here’s a quick comparison:

Apply sunscreen 15minutes before exposure and re‑apply every two hours, or after swimming/sweating.

Medication Adjustments for Warm Weather

Many people stick to the same regimen year‑round, but summer may call for a few changes.

• Topical corticosteroids can become more readily absorbed in warm skin. Consider using a lower‑potency steroid or reducing frequency if you notice thinning.
• If you’re on phototherapy (NB‑UVB), coordinate sessions earlier in the day to avoid the peak sun hours.
• Biologic injections don’t require dose changes for temperature, but keep the injection site clean and cool.

Breathable Clothing: Let Your Skin Breathe

Clothing choices matter. Opt for loose‑fitting, natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo that wick moisture away. Avoid tight sleeves or synthetic blends that trap heat.

For outdoor activities, a lightweight, UPF‑rated shirt offers sun protection without overheating.

Diet and Hydration: Inside‑Out Support

What you eat can influence inflammation. During summer, it’s easier to stay hydrated, so use it to your advantage.

• Increase water intake to at least 2liters per day - more if you’re sweating heavily.
• Include omega‑3 rich foods (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed) to help calm inflammation.
• Limit alcohol and processed sugars, which can trigger flare‑ups for some people.

Handling Sweat and Heat Rashes

Sweat can clog pores and irritate plaques. After a workout or beach day, rinse with cool water and pat skin dry. Then reapply your moisturizer to seal in hydration.

If you develop a heat rash over a plaque, apply a thin layer of a 1% hydrocortisone cream - but only for short periods and under medical guidance.

Stress Management: Keep Calm, Keep Clear

Heat can raise stress levels, and stress is a known psoriasis trigger. Simple practices like morning breathing exercises, short walks in shaded areas, or a quick meditation app can keep cortisol in check.

Quick Summer Psoriasis Checklist

• Apply fragrance‑free moisturizer morning and night.
• Use a broad‑spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15‑30) before any outdoor time.
• Re‑apply sunscreen every 2hours or after swimming/sweating.
• Choose breathable, loose clothing; consider UPF shirts.
• Stay hydrated - at least 2L water daily.
• Adjust topical steroids if skin feels thinner.
• Rinse off sweat promptly; re‑apply moisturizer.
• Practice a daily 5‑minute stress‑relief routine.