What Causes Psoriasis Flareups? Triggers, Prevention, and Relief Options
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Living with psoriasis often means managing unexpected flareups that can affect your skin, confidence, and overall well-being. But what causes psoriasis flareups in the first place? Understanding your triggers is the first step to managing symptoms and reducing flare frequency.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the top causes of psoriasis flareups, how to identify them, and what products from Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies can help you calm your skin and regain control.
Understanding Psoriasis Flareups
What is and what causes Psoriasis Flareups ?
A psoriasis flareup occurs when symptoms suddenly worsen—this could mean increased redness, scaling, itchiness, or even painful plaques. While psoriasis is an autoimmune condition with no known cure, many people experience periods of remission followed by flareups triggered by specific internal or external factors.
What Causes Psoriasis Flareups?
1. Stress and Emotional Triggers
Stress is one of the most common and well-documented causes of psoriasis flareups. When you're anxious, your immune system responds with inflammation—which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Tip: Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, or even gentle yoga can help regulate stress levels.
Supportive Product: Try calming your skin during high-stress periods with our Bee Venom Cream, known for its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Skin Injuries and Trauma (Koebner Phenomenon)
A simple scratch, sunburn, or insect bite might seem minor, but for those with psoriasis, it can lead to new plaques forming on the skin—a process called the Koebner phenomenon.
Tip: Protect your skin by using gentle, non-irritating skincare and avoiding harsh exfoliants.
Recommended Product: Our Dermal Therapy Sensitive Skin Lotion provides hydration without irritation, supporting skin barrier repair.
3. Infections
Strep throat and other infections can lead to guttate psoriasis, especially in children and young adults. The immune system becomes overactive as it tries to fight the infection, which can trigger a flare.
Tip: If you're prone to infection-triggered flareups, it’s crucial to treat any illness quickly and consult your GP.
Helpful Support: Use our UVB 311nm Light Therapy Devices to help manage symptoms when infection-triggered flares occur. Many users report skin clearing within weeks of consistent use.
4. Cold Weather and Climate Changes
Cold, dry air can strip the skin of moisture and worsen psoriasis. Winter flareups are particularly common in Australia, where low humidity and indoor heating can leave skin vulnerable.
Tip: Keep skin hydrated and avoid sudden temperature changes when possible.
Best Seller: Our Natural Psoriasis & Eczema Balm (with Emu Oil and Kunzea) is a favourite for winter skin, offering deep hydration and soothing botanical relief.
5. Medications
Certain medications—like beta-blockers, lithium, or antimalarials—can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Never stop taking a prescribed medication without medical guidance, but do inform your healthcare provider if you suspect a link.
Tip: Keep a symptom journal when starting new medications to help track any flare patterns.
6. Alcohol and Smoking
Both alcohol and smoking are linked to increased psoriasis flareups. They disrupt immune function and can interfere with treatment effectiveness.
Tip: Reducing or eliminating these habits can significantly improve skin clarity and reduce flare severity.
Internal Support: Consider using our Psoriasis & Eczema Herbal Tea, which contains detoxifying herbs that support liver function and overall skin health.
7. Allergens and Irritants
Some individuals flare when exposed to allergens like pet dander, dust mites, or even harsh soaps and fragrances.
Tip: Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic skin products, and patch-test anything new before applying widely.
Top Choice: Our Goat’s Milk Soap for Psoriasis and Eczema is gentle, chemical-free, and designed for ultra-sensitive skin.
8. Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can influence the immune system and result in psoriasis flares, especially in women.
Tip: Speak with your healthcare provider about managing hormonal imbalances alongside psoriasis treatment.
How to Manage Psoriasis Flareups
1. Identify Your Triggers
Keep a flare diary to track diet, sleep, stress, and environmental changes around flareup times. Over time, patterns will emerge.
2. Create a Skincare Routine
Consistency is key. Use products that are:
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Fragrance-free
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Rich in natural oils or butters
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Designed for sensitive skin
Daily Regimen Suggestion:
Cleanse: With our All Natural Psoriasis Cleansing Bar
Moisturise: Using Kunzea Balm morning and night
Targeted Relief: Apply Bee Venom Cream to problem areas
Supplement with: 311nm UVB Lamp Therapy for consistent results
3. Nourish from Within
Your skin is a reflection of your internal health. Anti-inflammatory diets rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and hydration can support healing.
Support from Nature: Our Psoriasis & Eczema Herbal Capsules are formulated with turmeric, burdock root, and other herbs traditionally used to reduce skin inflammation.
4. Light Therapy for Long-Term Relief
UVB 311nm Light Therapy is a dermatologist-recommended option that can be done at home. It slows the rapid growth of skin cells and reduces scaling and inflammation.
Explore Options: We offer both handheld and desktop UVB Light Therapy Lamps, suited for treating small areas or full-body coverage from the comfort of home.
5. Stay Consistent
Many products require several weeks of regular use to see results. Stick with your routine, track changes, and adjust based on what your skin responds to best.
Why Shop with Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies?
We’re more than a store—we’re Australians who understand first-hand the daily battles with psoriasis and eczema. That’s why we stock:
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Tested, trusted, and niche-specific products
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Fast shipping across Australia
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Friendly, knowledgeable support
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Natural, steroid-free alternatives
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Psoriasis Flareups Today
Understanding what causes psoriasis flareups can give you the power to avoid them. Whether it's stress, weather, or allergens, identifying your personal triggers is the key to prevention.
At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, we offer trusted, customer-loved products designed to help you feel confident in your skin again—naturally, safely, and affordably.