As the temperature drops in Akola, many patients visit my clinic with a common concern: "Doctor, why does my itching and scaling increase as soon as winter arrives?"
I am Dr. Shadab Khan (M.D. Homoeopath), and in this comprehensive guide, we will explore the scientific reasons behind winter psoriasis flares and how you can control them effectively.
What is Psoriasis? (The Science Behind Your Skin)
Psoriasis is not just a simple skin allergy; it is a complex autoimmune condition.
| Normal Skin | Psoriatic Skin |
|---|---|
| Takes 28 to 30 days to regenerate | Cells regenerate in just 3 to 4 days |
| Balanced immune response | Overactive immune system releases IL-17 |
| Smooth, healthy texture | Buildup of silver flakes and thick patches |
The immune system releases a chemical called IL-17, which signals skin cells to divide too rapidly. This accelerated cycle is what causes the characteristic silvery scales and inflamed patches.
4 Scientific Reasons Winter Triggers Psoriasis
1. Low Humidity: The Desert Effect on Your Skin
Cold air lacks moisture. Since the natural skin barrier is already weak in Psoriasis, dry air causes cells to:
- Dehydrate rapidly
- Crack and split
- Lead to painful bleeding
Why it matters: In Akola and surrounding areas like Amravati, Washim, and Buldhana, the winter months bring particularly dry air that directly attacks your compromised skin barrier.
2. Lack of Sunlight: Your Natural Medicine Disappears
Vitamin D and UV rays help control IL-17 activity naturally. During winter:
- Shorter days = less sun exposure
- IL-17 becomes overactive without UV regulation
- More frequent and severe flares occur
3. Hot Water Baths: The Hidden Enemy
While a hot shower feels relaxing in cold weather, very hot water:
- Strips away the skin's protective natural oils
- Acts like "petrol on a fire" for inflammation
- Leaves skin dry and vulnerable
4. Viral Infections: The Seasonal Trigger
Common colds and coughs are frequent in winter. These infections:
- Trigger the immune system into overdrive
- Increase IL-17 and TNF-Alpha levels
- Directly worsen skin inflammation
⚠️ Warning Against Steroid Creams
[!CAUTION] Overusing steroid-mixed creams may clear the skin temporarily, but it often leads to a "Rebound Flare". This internal inflammation can even trigger Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), causing painful joint swelling and permanent damage.
Many patients from Akola, Khamgaon, Akot, and Balapur come to my clinic after years of steroid dependency, facing worse symptoms than when they started. The key is to treat the root cause, not just suppress symptoms.
Daily Winter Care Routine for Psoriasis
To prevent itching and bleeding, follow these expert-recommended steps:
1. The 3-Minute Rule (Most Important!)
Apply your moisturizer within 3 minutes of stepping out of the bath while your skin is still damp. This technique:
- Locks in the moisture effectively
- Creates a protective barrier
- Prevents transepidermal water loss
2. Choose the Right Moisturizer
| ❌ Avoid | ✅ Best Options |
|---|---|
| Lotions (too much water content) | Cold Pressed (Lakdi Ghani) Coconut Oil |
| Fragranced products | White Petrolatum (Vaseline Pure Jelly) |
| Alcohol-based creams | Liquid Paraffin (for severe dryness) |
Pro Tip: Always choose fragrance-free products to avoid burning sensations on sensitive psoriatic skin.
3. Bathing Habits That Heal
- Use only lukewarm water (never hot!)
- Keep your bath under 10 minutes
- Replace harsh soaps with Syndet Bars such as:
- Dove
- Cetaphil
- Tedibar
These maintain a neutral pH that protects rather than damages your skin.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Winter
What you eat plays a massive role in managing systemic inflammation. Here's your winter nutrition guide:
🌟 Smart Turmeric Protocol
Take half a teaspoon of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper in warm water every morning.
The Science: Piperine in black pepper increases turmeric (curcumin) absorption by 2000%. Without black pepper, most of the anti-inflammatory benefits are lost.
🌟 Omega-3 Superfoods
These act as a "fire extinguisher" for your skin:
- 1 tablespoon of roasted flaxseeds (Alsi) daily
- 4-5 walnuts (Akhrot) daily
- Fatty fish like Bangda (Indian Mackerel) for non-vegetarians
🚫 Foods to Strictly Avoid
- Alcohol: Dehydrates the skin severely
- Mutton (Red Meat): Increases internal inflammation
- Refined Sugar & Maida: Triggers body-wide inflammatory response
- Late-night eating & junk food
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why does my Psoriasis get worse only in winter?
Winter brings dry air, less sunlight, hot water bathing habits, and more viral infections—all of which trigger IL-17 overactivity and worsen Psoriasis symptoms.
Q2: Can I use steroid creams for quick relief?
Steroid creams provide temporary relief but lead to "Rebound Flares" and can trigger Psoriatic Arthritis. It's better to follow a natural routine and seek constitutional homoeopathic treatment.
Q3: How long should I follow this routine to see results?
Consistency is key. Follow this routine for at least 3 months to see a significant difference in your skin health. Most patients notice improvement within 4-6 weeks.
Q4: Is Psoriasis curable with Homoeopathy?
Yes, constitutional homoeopathic treatment addresses the root cause—the immune system imbalance—rather than just suppressing symptoms. Many patients achieve long-term remission.
Q5: Can I get treatment if I'm not in Akola?
Absolutely! Dr. Shadab's Homoeopathy provides teleconsultation services and couriers medicines all over India.
Book Your Consultation
If you are in Akola or nearby districts like Amravati, Washim, Buldhana, Yavatmal, Khamgaon, Akot, Shegaon, or Malkapur, and struggling with chronic Psoriasis, it is time to look beyond temporary creams and treat the root cause.
📍 Clinic Location
Dr. Shadab's Homoeopathy Gajanan Estate First Floor, Near SBI Kaulkhed Akola, Maharashtra - 444001
📞 Contact for Appointment
- Phone: 8983458889
- WhatsApp: 8983458889
- Email: drshadabshomoeopathy@gmail.com
🕐 Clinic Timings
- Morning: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: By Appointment Only
Final Thoughts
Consistency is key. Follow this routine for at least 3 months to see a significant difference in your skin health. Remember:
- Moisturize within 3 minutes of bathing
- Use lukewarm water only
- Take turmeric with black pepper daily
- Include Omega-3 rich foods
- Avoid alcohol and red meat
If you're tired of temporary solutions and want to address the root cause of your Psoriasis, constitutional Homoeopathic treatment is the path to lasting health.
Stay Healthy, Stay Informed.
Tags: Psoriasis Tips, Dr. Shadab Khan, Homoeopathy Akola, Winter Skin Care, Psoriatic Arthritis, Natural Healing, Akola Doctors, Best Skin Specialist Akola, Psoriasis Treatment Maharashtra