As World Psoriasis Day approaches, observed every year on October 29, it is important to remember that beyond visible symptoms, psoriasis can significantly affect the physical, emotional and social well-being of many people.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, more than 125 million people worldwide live with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. This awareness day aims to raise awareness of this reality and encourage greater understanding of those affected.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, it generally appears as red or purplish patches covered with silvery-white scales. Its severity varies considerably from person to person.
Lesions can appear anywhere on the body, but are frequently seen on:
- The elbows;
- The knees;
- The scalp;
- The chest;
- The lower back.
Some people also experience:
- Itching;
- Discomfort or pain;
- Nail problems;
- Joint pain when psoriatic arthritis is present.
Psoriasis is a complex condition with manifestations that extend far beyond the skin.
Some habits that can promote well-being
Although medical follow-up remains essential, certain lifestyle habits can contribute to overall comfort and a better quality of life.
Prioritize sleep
Go to bed at the same time each night, limit screen time in the evening, reduce caffeine intake and create a calm, comfortable environment.
Stay active at your own pace
When the condition allows, appropriate physical activity can contribute to overall well-being. Walking, swimming or cycling are gentle ways to stay active without adding stress to the body.
Take care of your skin
Proper skin hydration helps maintain comfort, suppleness and the skin's natural barrier.
Adopting a balanced diet
Although diet is not a treatment for psoriasis, good eating habits can contribute to overall well-being and support a better quality of life.
Foods to choose
Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and foods rich in omega-3s promote a balanced and varied diet. Proper hydration and sufficient fibre intake also contribute to a healthy digestive system.
Foods to limit
Conversely, limiting highly processed foods, fried foods and excessive alcohol consumption can be beneficial. According to Psoriasis Canada, alcohol in particular is associated with increased inflammation in some people living with psoriasis.
Fatigue: an often-overlooked symptom
Fatigue is a lesser-known aspect of psoriasis.
This fatigue may manifest as:
The exact mechanisms remain complex, but the chronic inflammation associated with the condition may contribute to this state of fatigue. For many people, this fatigue is even the most difficult aspect to manage day to day.
The role of well-being professionals
Massage therapists and other care professionals never replace medical follow-up with a dermatologist. However, they can help create a holistic well-being experience by taking into account each person's particular needs.
Listening, adapting techniques and selecting gentle, comfortable products can make all the difference to the client's experience.
Each treatment must be adapted to the condition of the skin and the person's overall condition at the time of treatment, while also helping to relieve stress and fatigue.
Promoting skin comfort and hydration
Moor+ Ultimate Hydration Emulsion: for daily hydration support
Moor+ Ultimate Hydration Emulsion
Formulated for daily body care, it helps maintain the skin's hydration, suppleness and elasticity. Its light texture makes it a popular choice for both professional and home use.
Its formulation includes:
Daily facial skincare
Facial skin can also be affected by the dryness and discomfort associated with compromised skin. A gentle, well-suited routine helps maintain its daily hydration and comfort.
For facial care, Moor+ Hydrating Renewing Cream is a particularly popular option for its hydrating, soothing and softening properties.
Moor+ Hydrating Renewing Cream
A particularly popular option for its hydrating, soothing and softening properties. Its formula combines micronized Canadian Moor extract, aloe, shea butter, allantoin and vitamins A and E to help maintain skin hydration and support its natural balance.
Versatile, it can be applied morning and evening to the face, around the eyes, on the lips and décolletage. It is particularly suitable for dehydrated, sensitive or redness-prone skin, while providing a lasting feeling of comfort.
View product sheetAlthough it does not claim to treat psoriasis, a suitable hydration routine remains an important step for the comfort of many people living with compromised or dryness-prone skin.
AromaCalmXtrem: when stress affects daily life
Living with psoriasis can sometimes involve a significant mental burden. Periods of stress can also affect overall well-being and sleep quality.
AromaCalmXtrem
This synergy combines grapefruit, petitgrain bigarade, palmarosa and peppermint essential oils, selected for their relaxing aromatic properties.
Used particularly for diffusion or inhalation, AromaCalmXtrem can help create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and calm. Whether creating a relaxing moment at home, in a care setting or as part of an evening routine, this synergy easily fits into well-being habits.
View product sheetImportant: Essential oils must always be used according to the manufacturer's recommendations and directions for use.
Regarding AromaCalmXtrem:
- Avoid diffusing the product in a vehicle, as its formulation may cause drowsiness.
- Generally, essential oils are not recommended for babies under 3 months or during the first three months of pregnancy.
Before use, learn about the product, its directions for use and contraindications. If in doubt, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
This product is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Raising awareness, understanding and providing support
World Psoriasis Day is an opportunity to remember that psoriasis is a condition that affects both the skin and several aspects of quality of life.
Whether you are a well-being professional, a caregiver or someone living with this reality, greater understanding promotes more compassionate and appropriate support.
Taking care of your skin, managing your energy, maintaining good lifestyle habits and surrounding yourself with the right resources are all steps that can help improve daily life.
