Building a Simple But Effective Psoriasis Skincare Routine

In my experience with psoriasis, consistency with skincare is critical to managing flares. A diligent skincare routine tailored to dry, red, and flaky skin can help to manage symptoms and maintain skin health. A consistent regimen can significantly alleviate discomfort, reduce flare-ups, and improve the overall appearance of your skin. Below is my guide to building a simple but effective psoriasis skincare routine for both facial and body care, designed to fit seamlessly into your daily life.

I’ve included affiliate links to the products that I use, but they can be found easily at local retailers. I only endorse products I’ve personally used or come highly recommended by trusted peers. This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

One more thing – It’s always best to test new products in smaller spots before using on your whole face or body.

Facial Skincare Routine

1. Cleansing (2-3 minutes)

I start my morning and evening skincare routines with a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Look for products labeled for sensitive skin and free from fragrances and alcohol, as these can be irritating.

• Step: Apply a small amount of cleanser to your fingertips and gently massage it onto damp skin in circular motions. Cleanse for about 30-60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Products I use + love: Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser

2. Toning (1-2 minutes)

Toners can help restore your skin’s natural pH balance and remove any remaining impurities. Opt for an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like aloe or chamomile.

• Step: Soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe it across your face, avoiding the eye area.
• Products I use + love: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

3. Serum (1-2 minutes)

Serums are concentrated treatments that can target specific skin concerns such as dryness, redness, or inflammation. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid for hydration or niacinamide for redness reduction. I use different products in the morning and evening.

• Step: Apply a few drops of serum to your fingertips and gently press and massage into your skin. Allow the serum to absorb for 1-2 minutes before moving on to the next step.
• Products I use + love: Morning: Tree of Life Vitamin C Serum for Face and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Evening: InstaSkincare Niacinamide Serum

4. Moisturizing (2-3 minutes)

In my psoriasis skincare routine, moisturizing is the most important step in keeping skin hydrated and protected. Look for a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin, ideally containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter to provide deep hydration and barrier protection.

• Step: Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to your face and neck, gently massaging it in until fully absorbed. In the morning, I use a lighter moisturizer because I don’t want to feel too greasy with makeup on, but in the evening I use a heavier cream.
• Products I use + love: Neutrogena Hydro Boost 

5. Sun Protection (Morning Only, 1-2 minutes)

UV exposure can make psoriasis symptoms worse and even trigger new flares, so applying sunscreen is essential every day! Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.

• Step: Apply sunscreen to your face and neck as the final step of your morning routine.
• Products I use + love: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen  and Trader Joe’s has a really good dupe for this at a lower price!

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Body Skincare Routine

1. Bathing (10-15 minutes)

Daily bathing and cleansing help to remove dead skin cells and soothe inflammation. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free body wash or an oil-based cleanser. I love hot showers but it can strip oils and further dry out skin, so should use warm/lukewarm water.

• Products I use + love: Dove Beauty Bar for Sensitive Skin

2. Exfoliation (Once or Twice a Week, 2-3 minutes)

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells but should be done sparingly to avoid irritation. Use a gentle exfoliant specifically designed for sensitive skin.

• Step: Gently exfoliate in circular motions, focusing on areas with thick plaques.
• Products I use & love: Dove Body Polish

3. Moisturizing (5-10 minutes)

Immediately after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp, apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer. Body oils and creams are more effective than lotions. When my skin needs some extra moisture, I will layer a body oil and then a cream. I apply the oil first and let it soak into the skin then apply a moisturizing psoriasis cream.

• Step: Generously apply the moisturizer all over your body, paying special attention to areas prone to dryness.
• Products I use & love: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil and CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for Psoriasis 

4. Targeted Treatments (1-2 minutes)

For areas with active flare-ups or that are very uncomfortable, use prescribed topical treatments like corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs.

• Step: Apply the treatment as directed by your dermatologist, usually after moisturizing.

On a Final Note

Consistency is key when managing psoriasis. By dedicating time each day to a structured psoriasis skincare routine, you can help minimize flare-ups and maintain healthier skin. Always consult with your dermatologist to tailor these steps to your specific needs and consider any additional treatments or modifications that might be necessary. Remember, your skin’s health is worth the time and effort. If you have any products or steps that you use or follow, please leave in the comments!

Read More from Just A Girl With Spots: Surviving a Scorching Heatwave: A Guide to Managing Psoriasis Flares