Question: I have had psoriasis for many years. I seem to get flare ups most every summer. Can psoriasis be seasonal?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Actually, psoriasis symptoms are said to improve in the spring and summer with increased exposure of your skin to the sun’s ultraviolet light, which suppresses the rapidly multiplying skin cells in psoriasis. With the current new immunomodulant therapies available, there is less dependance on topical treatments, and many cases can now be treated into an almost full remission. An increase in the amount of moisture in the air may also provide some relief, because dry skin can make psoriasis symptoms worse. However, many people like you experience flares in the summer. Gradually increase the time you spend in sunlight and use a moisturizer. Relaxation and de-stressing also reduce flare ups.