Although psoriasis is often classed as a dermatological condition, we know that it’s more than skin deep. In this blog we investigate if psoriasis is a sign of a weak immune system.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is thought to be an autoimmune condition, genetic in nature. This means that if a member of your family has psoriasis, you may have a higher chance of getting it yourself. It can also be caused by a number of environmental triggers such as illness, stress, medications, skin injuries and infections. 

Autoimmunity and psoriasis

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s own immune system can’t tell the difference between foreign invaders and its own processes. In psoriasis, white blood cells (T cells) attack their own skin cells, rapidly speeding up the process of production. This causes a buildup of excess cells on the surface of skin, resulting in the thick, scaly and flushed patches that are characteristic of psoriasis. 

Psoriasis is therefore caused by the immune system being overactive, not weak. 

Although psoriasis is a long lasting health condition, it can be managed and can even go into remission for long periods of time. The effective treatment of psoriasis emphasises calming and supporting your immune system to manage flare ups.

Ways to manage psoriasis

The good news is that there are many ways to support your immune system naturally, inexpensively and at home.

1. Take regular exercise - moving your body is important to the maintenance of general physical and mental health and plays a role in reducing stress and depression. All of these things are vital to a healthy immune system. Exercise is especially key to the health of psoriasis sufferers who may be more at risk of heart problems, high blood pressure and cholesterol. 
2. Eat a nutritious diet - although the link between healthy diet and the management of psoriasis hasn’t been scientifically proven yet; a wholesome diet is believed to be beneficial for sufferers. A nutritious diet for someone with psoriasis should incorporate lots of antioxidants, selenium and vitamins C and E. These can be found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, berries, citrus fruits and good fats. 
3. Wash your hands - today we are all washing our hands a lot more than before and as we approach winter season it is crucial to keep bugs and viruses at bay. If you’re worried about dry skin, then restrict hand washing to no more than ten times a day. You could also use our quick drying hand sanitiser gel and apply our Skin Salvation afterwards to lock in moisture.

Recommended products:

Balmonds Natural Shampoo & Body Wash
this all natural, all purpose cleanser features biodynamic herbal tinctures, natural herbal extracts and essential oils.

Balmonds Skin Salvation
our rich, oil and beeswax based natural moisturiser is our signature emollient for people suffering from psoriasis and dry skin conditions

Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream
this soft, shea-butter based cream works as a protective barrier against irritants and a super-nutritious boost for skin.