If you’ve ever dealt with dry, scaly patches that just won’t quit, you might already know the struggle of psoriasis. This chronic skin condition affects over 125 million people globally, and while it can show up in different forms, the frustration it causes is universally real. At MVP Pharmacy, we believe that the right skincare routine can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to hydration.
Let’s talk about what psoriasis actually is, why moisturizers are one of the most powerful tools in managing it, and how to choose the right ones for your skin.
What Is Psoriasis, Really?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition.
Translation? Your body gets a little overzealous and speeds up the skin cell production process. Instead of turning over skin cells every 28–30 days like it’s supposed to, your body starts producing them every 3–7 days. This leads to a buildup of skin cells on the surface that can cause:
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Dry, scaly patches
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Redness and inflammation
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Itching, burning, or discomfort
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Cracking or bleeding skin
There are a few different types of psoriasis, each with its own vibe:
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Plaque psoriasis: The most common form - think raised, red patches with silvery scales.
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Guttate psoriasis: Tiny red spots, often following a cold or strep infection.
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Inverse psoriasis: Smooth, shiny red patches in body folds like armpits or under the breasts.
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Pustular psoriasis: White blisters filled with pus (but not from infection - gross but true).
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Erythrodermic psoriasis: A rare, severe type that covers large areas with intense redness and peeling.
Triggers for psoriasis flare ups can include stress, weather changes, infections, certain medications, and even skin trauma (yep, that scraped knee might not just be annoying, it could spark a flare).
Why Moisturizing Is a Game Changer
Now here’s the part that often gets overlooked: hydration matters. A lot.
While prescription treatments, lifestyle changes, and biologics might get most of the attention, moisturizers are one of the simplest, cheapest, and most effective tools in your psoriasis toolbox.
Here’s how they help:
1. 💧 They Reduce Dryness and Flaking
Dry, flaky skin isn’t just uncomfortable, it can also crack and worsen inflammation. Moisturizers work to lock in hydration, making those rough patches softer and less visible.
2. ✨ They Soothe Itch and Irritation
That relentless itching? Moisturizers help calm it down. Many contain ingredients like ceramides or colloidal oatmeal that are known for reducing itch and irritation.
3. 🚀 They Boost the Power of Other Treatments
Using topical meds? Applying a moisturizer beforehand can actually help them absorb better, so you’re getting more from your treatment.
4. 🛡️ They Reinforce Your Skin Barrier
People with psoriasis often have a compromised skin barrier. Moisturizers help rebuild and protect it, preventing further damage and reducing flare ups.
How to Choose the Right Moisturizer for Psoriasis
Not all moisturizers are created equal. Some are more “meh” than helpful, especially if they’re packed with fragrances, dyes, or alcohol. Here's what to look for when shopping:
✅ Fragrance-Free
Fragrance might smell nice, but it’s a common irritant. Stick with unscented or hypoallergenic formulas.
✅ Thick + Ointment-Based
Thin lotions evaporate quickly. What you want is something rich, think creams, balms, or ointments that really stay put. Ingredients like petrolatum, ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid are MVPs here.
✅ Dermatologist-Recommended
Look for moisturizers that are loved by derms and backed by science, especially those labeled safe for sensitive or compromised skin.
✅ Apply Right After Showering
Timing is key: moisturize within 5 minutes of stepping out of the shower to seal in hydration.
✅ Keep It Handy
Don’t just moisturize once a day and call it good. Reapply to dry or exposed areas throughout the day, especially after washing your hands or being in the cold.
Our Pharmacy Picks for Psoriasis Relief
We’ve curated a lineup of moisturizers that are tried, tested, and trusted, many of which are recommended by dermatologists specifically for psoriasis-prone skin.
🧴 CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Loaded with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore your skin’s barrier and deliver all-day hydration. Fragrance-free and non-greasy.
🧴 Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream
This one packs a punch with urea and ceramides—great for super-dry skin and flaky areas. Bonus: it absorbs quickly.
🧴 Vanicream Moisturizing Ointment
Free from all the things that could irritate sensitive skin (no fragrance, dyes, lanolin, parabens). Thick and healing.
🧴 Aquaphor Healing Ointment
A cult classic. This petrolatum-based ointment is amazing for locking in moisture overnight or for protecting cracked areas.
Need help choosing? Our pharmacists are skincare-obsessed. Stop by or call us and we’ll help you find the right fit based on your skin needs and lifestyle.
Psoriasis Isn’t Just Skin Deep
We get it, psoriasis isn’t just about the skin. It can mess with your confidence, your comfort, even your sleep. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all cure, having the right support and skincare routine can make a world of difference.
At MVP Pharmacy, we’re not just here to fill prescriptions. We’re here to help you create a routine and regime that works. Ask us about creating a personalized plan in Fullscript!
Stop By and Stock Up
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a longtime pro at managing flare-ups, keeping your skin moisturized is non-negotiable. And the good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.
👉 Visit us in-store or shop online for our curated selection of dermatologist-loved moisturizers.
👉 Have questions? Our team is here to help.
Because when it comes to skin, we know our stuff.
