The sun can often improve psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation and slowing down skin cell growth. However, overexposure to the sun can also exacerbate psoriasis or cause a flare-up.
So let’s look deeper
The sun can often improve psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation and slowing down skin cell growth through the action of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The National Psoriasis Foundation explains that “when skin cells die, an inflammatory response occurs that involves T cells and other immune system cells. UVB radiation can reduce the number of T cells in the skin, as well as their ability to function. High-intensity UVA light can suppress active immune system cells in the skin and blood.” However, it is important to note that overexposure to the sun can also exacerbate psoriasis or cause a flare-up.
According to a study published in the Journal of Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine in 2018, “for many patients, sunlight represents the single most effective and easily accessible treatment option for psoriasis. In fact, sunlight is even more cost-effective than phototherapy.” This study also found that “sunlight exposure has a superior effect on psoriasis compared to phototherapy devices in terms of duration of effect and plaque clearance.”
It is recommended that people with psoriasis approach sun exposure with caution and under medical guidance. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests starting with brief, small doses of natural sunlight and avoiding peak hours of sun exposure. They also recommend using sunscreen on unaffected skin and avoiding sunburn.
In a quote from Dr. Richard G. Fried, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical psychologist, he explains that “sun exposure can be a double-edged sword for people with psoriasis. On one hand, exposure to the sun can promote the production of vitamin D, which can improve the immune system, and help fight off infections. However, too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, and worsening of psoriasis symptoms.”
Here is a table of interesting facts about psoriasis and sun exposure:
| Fact | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Psoriasis affects 2-3% of the world’s population | Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that most commonly appears on the skin |
| Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D | Vitamin D can be beneficial for people with psoriasis and its deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases |
| Sunburn can trigger psoriasis flares | Overexposure to sun can cause skin irritation and inflammation that can lead to worsening of psoriasis symptoms |
| Ultraviolet B radiation is the most effective type of UV radiation for psoriasis treatment | UVB therapy is a type of light therapy that can help control psoriasis symptoms |
| Tanning beds should be avoided by people with psoriasis | Tanning devices can cause even more harm than natural sunlight, and studies have shown that they may increase the risk of skin cancer |
In conclusion, while the sun can have a beneficial effect on psoriasis, it is important for people with psoriasis to be cautious when approaching sun exposure. Consulting with a medical professional and following recommended guidelines can help individuals with psoriasis safely enjoy the benefits of natural sunlight.
A visual response to the word “What does the sun do to psoriasis?”
Dr. Stillman explains the effectiveness of light therapy, specifically UV light, in treating psoriasis by producing vitamin D in the skin which promotes normal epithelial function. He advises against relying on supplements and highlights the benefits of getting natural sunlight or consuming fish for vitamin D intake. Dr. Stillman stresses the importance of getting enough vitamin D as it is associated with various skin conditions, including psoriasis.
There are additional viewpoints
The reason why sunlight is powerful is due to its UVB rays. Sunlight is composed of ultraviolet light, consisting of UVA and UVB rays. The UVB rays slow the rapid rate of skin growth that appears as psoriasis. Ultraviolet light is so powerful in easing psoriasis symptoms that it’s used in phototherapy.
More interesting on the topic
Is being in the sun good for psoriasis?
As a response to this: Most people who have psoriasis find that the sun helps to improve their skin’s appearance. For some the change is dramatic, with red scaly patches almost disappearing altogether during summer months in a warm climate. In order to help clear psoriasis, sun exposure needs to be spread over time.
What happens if psoriasis gets sunburned?
Answer will be: Sunburn can make your psoriasis symptoms worse.
This is due to something called the Koebner phenomenon, in which any injury to the skin (be it sunburn or a cut or scratch) can trigger more psoriasis to develop, says Dr. Friedler.
Are there any benefits to having psoriasis?
As a response to this: The Bright Side of Psoriasis
People with them tend to have fewer kids and so pass on their genes less often. Because of that, these gene versions will slowly fade over time.
How can I protect my psoriasis from the sun?
Answer to this: Sun Protection for Psoriasis
- Avoid being outside during the sun’s peak hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses that have UV protection, and cover up in light fabrics like cotton that are cool, especially in pale colors.
- Wear sunscreen every day that’s “broad-spectrum” with an SPF of at least 30.
Does sun exposure help psoriasis?
As a response to this: The sun’s ultraviolet rays are made up of UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays can help slow the rapid rate of skin growth and shedding. This means exposure to the sun may clear psoriasis symptoms in some cases. It also makes your body produce more vitamin D. But you should take care to protect yourself from sunburn.
Can tanning cure psoriasis?
Answer will be: It may also be possible to see some improvement in the symptoms from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB. UVB rays are more effective at treating psoriasis symptoms because they slow the rapid rate of skin growth and shedding. But this doesn’t mean that tanning for hours in the sun can cure your psoriasis.
Is UVB a good treatment for psoriasis?
The reply will be: Sunlight: Although both UVB and UVA are found in sunlight, UVB works best for psoriasis. UVB from the sun works the same way as UVB in phototherapy treatments. However, using sunlight to treat psoriasis is not recommended for everyone. Sunlight is not as effective for the treatment of psoriasis as prescription phototherapy.
What if I Didn’t Have Psoriasis?
Answer: Even if you didn’t have psoriasis, it would be smart to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. With psoriasis, you have an extra reason to do so, since sunburn can make it worse. Dermatologists recommend doing these things: Avoid being outside during the sun’s peak hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.