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(There are different types of psoriasis; the kind in which thick plaques appear is calledfittinglyplaque psoriasis.)
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
Another key tool for your kit: a great over-the-counter moisturizer.
The best moisturizers for psoriasis can play an important role in maintaining healthy skin, Dr. Mathieu says.
If the skin is too dry, then it can crack, she explains.
Just remember, she adds, that a moisturizer alone likely isnt enough to treat psoriasis.
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What should you look for while shopping for a moisturizer for psoriasis?
One of the most common keratolytic agents youll find in psoriasis creams is salicylic acid.
Other key exfoliating ingredients include urea andlactic acid.
This body moisturizer comes in a handy bottle with a pump thats easy to use.
This is not a common complaint, but can occur with anything containing salicylic acid.
With a 3% concentration of salicylic acid, its more potent than many other OTC creams.
Plus, it contains seven different moisturizing agents to minimize water loss within the skin.
Even better: We like that its been recognized by the NPF for its sensitive-skin-friendly formula.
It really can help moisturize and keep [affected areas] occluded, Dr. Alvarez says.
How you choose to incorporate Aquaphor into your psoriasis regimen is up to you.
But if your skin can tolerate psoriasis-specific creams, Dr. Alvarez recommends layering.
I would do a sandwich method, she says.
I would use my regular sensitive skin moisturizer, like [something from] Cetaphil.
This is one of my favorite moisturizers to recommend for sensitive skin, Dr. Mathieu says.
Its extremely hydrating and also contains niacinamide, which helps improve inflammation.
Its packed with other key softening, barrier-protecting ingredients too, like shea butter and ceramides.
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