Psoriasis [PLEASE READ FIRST POST!]

Betty Allen15, a huge welcome from me too! 🙂

As for me, I’m actually thrilled with the results of the treatment I put together myself. I based it on some stuff I tried last winter that just didn't work, but this summer has been a total game-changer. Since it involves corticosteroids, I won't go into all the details here. For now, I'm just sticking to Aveeno thermal water and a basic moisturizer, and I'm hoping my upcoming trip to the coast for some sun will help lock in these results for a while.
Best to everyone,

Betty Allen15 said:HI THERE! I only shower using Johnson's baby chamomile shampoo—it's super gentle and doesn't irritate my skin at all. After bathing, I mix together some products from Aveeno (almond milk, aloe vera lotion, and chamomile & green tea milk) to create my own blend for moisturizing. It's packed with vitamins and keeps my skin feeling elastic, though obviously, it's not a cure! You can even stir in your regular moisturizer if you want... It works wonders for me, and honestly, Nivea just doesn't sit right on my skin. For my face, I use Eucerin Omega cream because my skin got pretty damaged from the cortisone, especially with those broken capillaries appearing.

I'll give that a shot, thanks so much everyone! 🙏

I have to admit, you guys really pulled me out of my funk. I've been in such a bad headspace since the start of summer... the patches on my body have spread quite a bit, and on top of that, it's driving me crazy seeing it on my legs, so I can't even wear dresses! 😢 I never used to deal with this on my legs... 😢

I know it sounds bizarre compared to the much tougher situations you're dealing with, but you know how it is... I just turned 31, and barely 5 percent of the people I know actually understand what's going on with my skin 😵 most people just stare and don't say a word, and then occasionally someone will ask, so I answer them... 🙄
It's honestly terrible how uninformed people are. It makes me so frustrated that there aren't more shows on TV about this, and that psoriasis is still treated like some big taboo 😠 I haven't even seen anyone with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis on those silly medical dramas 🤷

Linda Chase81 said:I’ll give it a shot, thank you all so much 🙏

I have to admit that you all have pulled me out of a bit of a slump, because ever since the beginning of summer, I’ve fallen into a rather nasty funk... my skin flare-ups have spread quite a bit across my body, and beyond that, it is just maddening to see them appearing on my legs, which means I can't wear dresses 😢 I didn't used to deal with this on my legs 😢

I realize how bizarre this sounds compared to the much more severe situations some of you face, but you know how it goes... I’ve hit 31, and yet perhaps only five percent of the people in my orbit actually understand what is happening with my skin 😵 everyone else just stares without saying a word, and occasionally someone might ask, so I provide an answer 🙄
It is truly appalling how uninformed people are; it irritates me that there aren't more television programs dedicated to this, and that psoriasis is still treated like some sort of social taboo 😠 you don't even see it portrayed in those mindless medical dramas on network TV—never once have I heard or seen anyone suffering from psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis 🤷

The most vital thing is to respect and love yourself exactly as you are, and to attempt to live your life normally; if you do that, you will find yourself noticing those strange glances from others far less often. I don't personally know depression, simply because I have never allowed anyone—not even a disease—to dictate how I live my life, so please, do not permit yourself to sink into depression or a low state. I would rather hand you a CD, put on some music, and dance through the morning; I wear skirts and short-sleeved shirts regardless of my condition, and when I catch those odd looks, I simply smile at them. I reached age 54 without ever succumbing to depression and I still maintain the same attitude, speaking very little about my psoriasis. I have a family of seven—my husband, two daughters, a grandson, and a son-in-law—whom I care for, so I simply don't have the luxury of time to dwell on "what ifs" or worry about who thinks what of me. You are young, and there are many beautiful years ahead of you; enjoy them, leave the depression to someone else, keep your chin up, and remember that tomorrow is a new day.🙂

Maria Chavez55 said:Betty Allen15, please accept my warmest welcome as well. 🙂

As far as I am concerned, I have been quite satisfied with the results of a self-prescribed regimen—something I put together based on various treatments I used during the winter that, frankly, failed to yield anything worthwhile—and now that summer has arrived, things have turned out rather positively. However, since the formula relies on corticosteroids, I won't dwell on the specifics here. For the time being, I am simply maintaining my skin's condition with Aveeno thermal water and a basic moisturizer, and I am holding onto the hope that an upcoming trip to the coast for some sun will help lock in these improvements for at least a little while.
Best to everyone,

Thanks for the warm welcome! If I may offer a suggestion, you might want to try using olive oil and St. John's Wort while you're out at the beach; I’ve been relying on that combination for five or six years now, and it has done wonders for me.

Betty Allen15 said:The most important thing is to respect and love yourself exactly as you are. Once you try to just live your life, you'll notice those weird looks from people way less often. I honestly don't know what depression feels like because I've never let anyone—not even an illness—control my life. So please, don't let depression or a bad headspace take over. I'll just pop in a CD and dance all morning, wearing skirts and short sleeves regardless of how things look, and when people stare, I just smile back. I've made it to 54 without ever hitting a depressive slump, and I still feel the same way... I don't talk about my psoriasis much anymore. I have a family of seven (my husband, two daughters, a grandson, and a son-in-law) that I look after, so I really don't have time to sit around wondering "what if" or worrying about what people think. You're young, and there are so many beautiful years ahead of you. Just enjoy them! Leave the depression to someone else. Keep your head up, tomorrow is a brand new day...🙂

Thank you, you are such a wonderful person! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

Betty Allen15 said:The main thing is just respecting and loving yourself exactly as you are. Try to live your life normally, and you'll notice those weird looks from strangers a lot less. I don't know what depression feels like because I never let anyone—not even an illness—control my life. So, don't let depression or a bad headspace take over. I’ll just put on a CD and dance all morning, wearing skirts and short sleeves regardless of how things look, and if people stare, I just smile at them. I've hit 54 without ever dealing with depression, and I still feel the same way. I talk about my psoriasis much less now. I have a family of seven—husband, two daughters, a grandson, and a son-in-law—to look after, so I don't have time to sit around wondering "what if" or worrying about what people think. You're young. There are so many great years ahead of you. Enjoy them. Leave the depression to someone else. Keep your head up; tomorrow is a new day.🙂

It's really nice to see how well you guys handle your condition....I get those moments too, but in the past, the depressions used to be huge.
I've noticed this thread has really picked up since you joined us, so... kudos to you! hehe...
I truly believe having family support helped you through all that... personally, I've been right on the edge of depression quite a few times because of one specific thought... the growing feeling that I might never be able to start a family because of this condition.... regardless of the people posting here or the spouses of those who are sick.. in today's world.. with young people.. I honestly don't think anyone would want to be with me because of this... that's why it's such a struggle to deal with.
I don't know how it is for everyone else.... there are plenty of young people here... how do relationships and psoriasis work together for you? Or maybe a better question... what about your sex life???

Hi everyone.....👍

Kate Williams41 said:but with how things are today... especially with younger people... I honestly don't think anyone would even accept me with this... that's why I struggle with her so much...
I'm not sure how everyone else feels... there are plenty of us young people here... how do relationships and psoriasis work together for you? Or maybe a better question... what about your sex life???

I was in a long-term relationship before and it didn't bother him at all, it just wasn't working out overall, so I ended things because of much more serious issues😳

Now, things are moving forward a bit. I have someone who loves me regardless of my condition, though unfortunately, marriage isn't on the table☕

Most guys I meet don't have the guts to tell me if their reason for breaking things off—usually after just short flings—is actually my skin or something else entirely, so I'm totally in the dark🤷
I mean, I'm sweet, cute, funny, and smart... so I just have to figure out the reason myself if everything else between us is perfect...🙄

Linda Chase81 said:Plus, it drives me absolutely crazy that it showed up on my legs too, so now I can't even wear dresses. 😢 I never used to have issues with my legs before. 😢

It’s honestly terrible how uninformed people are. It makes me so mad that there aren't more shows on TV about this, and that psoriasis is still treated like some big taboo. 😠 You don't even see it in those silly medical dramas—I've never heard or seen anyone with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis on screen. 🤷

Oh man... I went through the exact same thing last year when it spread everywhere. Total nightmare! Every single tiny thing that didn't fit was tossed straight out of my closet immediately. I didn't want to deal with the heartbreak of opening it up and realizing I couldn't wear my clothes anymore. Just awful.
I totally agree with the other point... seriously, it's infuriating!! But, if I'm being honest with myself and assuming people actually *are* informed... well... people would still stare. We have to admit it, even if it's hard to swallow... psoriasis just doesn't look pretty.
Sometimes my sister tries to cheer me up. Like when I clear the scales and they stay away for a while... like right now... she'll be like, "Wow, your legs look amazing!" 😂
I don't know if you've heard this, but someone once told me, "Red is a beautiful color, just not when it's on you!!!" Such a blunt way to put it... right, people?

Kate Williams41 said:It’s truly touching how well you all manage your condition... I have moments like this too, though they used to spiral into much deeper depressions...
I’ve noticed the conversation here has really picked up since you joined us, so, well... kudos to you! hehe...
I suspect your family has played a huge role in helping you through this... personally, I’ve found myself teetering on the edge of depression quite often because of one specific fear... the growing conviction that I will never be able to start a family because of what I’m dealing with... regardless of the people posting here or the spouses of those suffering... given the way things are today... and the mindset of young people nowadays... I find it hard to believe anyone would truly accept me with this condition... which is why I struggle with her so intensely...
I don't know about everyone else... there are plenty of young people in this group... but how do relationships and psoriasis actually function together? perhaps a better way to put it... what about your sex lives???

Best to everyone...👍

I actually met my husband in the dermatology ward while I was hospitalized. The moment he saw me, he turned to the doctor and asked if there was any cure at all, because he had been a merchant marine and figured he could just track down a remedy somewhere in the world. The doctor was blunt enough to explain my situation immediately, warning him that things would get even more difficult at times, yet here we are, married for thirty-four years already.
Naturally, family is paramount, and that doesn't just mean a spouse or children. Parents, siblings, close friends—all of them can provide that essential support to ensure you feel valued and loved until someone comes along who will love you sincerely, regardless of everything...

Betty Allen15 said:I actually met my husband in the dermatology department while I was recovering in the hospital! As soon as he saw me, he turned right to the doctor and asked if there was any way to fix me up—he was working as a merchant marine at the time and thought he might find his soulmate somewhere out on the high seas. The doctor gave him the straight talk about how serious my condition was and warned him things could get tough, but look at us now—we've been happily married for 34 years!
...

This is just so 😍
heartwarming

and kudos to you, Betty Allen15, for such amazing optimism. You are truly a wonderful woman!

Kate Williams41 said:..being young... I honestly don't think anyone could ever accept me with this... that’s why it's such a struggle for me...
I don't know how things are for everyone else—there are quite a few young people here—but how do relationships and psoriasis actually work together? Maybe a better way to put it... what about your sex lives???

I’ve always approached any potential relationship with a bit of hesitation because of that exact reason. Even though you start from scratch every single time explaining what's going on—and most people are understanding and accepting—personally, I still get the feeling they care more than they let on. I’ve been in a relationship for two years now, and my partner truly doesn't mind what my skin looks like; they see me for who I am. We go through every flare-up together, and they completely understand me—so, I guess I have to thank God for that, since finding someone like that is incredibly tough. Having someone who understands you just as much as your family does—and adapts to you—is everything.
As for my sex life, both the psoriasis and the arthritis definitely play a role, but when I'm lucky enough to be with someone who gets it, then it isn't really an issue.
His mother actually sent me into a total tailspin once—she mentioned during a conversation (maybe unintentionally?) whether I'd even be able to have kids after all the medication I've taken. I went absolutely crazy—seriously, 😠 I held such a grudge against her for that, and her words just keep looping in my head.
Best to everyone 😍

If life were actually that simple, everyone would have perfect parents, loyal friends, endless love, wealth, and flawless health.
But let's look at reality—is anything truly perfect? We live in a world where bad actors are everywhere, and people struggle with every imaginable illness.

Sometimes I think life would be easier for everyone without these health struggles, but life has taught me to accept things as they are. Through my own family, I’ve seen firsthand that being sick doesn't mean certain death or total despair.
Humans are fascinating creatures... we adapt so incredibly fast. Despite the pain and the terrible experiences, we just keep moving forward.
I feel blessed to be surrounded by such brave, resilient people.
It’s ironic, really—I’m actually happier now than I was years ago when I was perfectly healthy. It all comes down to mindset... this condition hasn't stopped me from living, learning, having fun, loving, or growing in every sense of the word.

There are difficult days, of course, but looking back objectively, I haven't missed out on anything. If anything, I’ve built a truly high-quality, wonderful life for myself.
I don't claim to be perfect, but I am grateful every single day.😍

And to Kate Williams41—you can absolutely have a completely normal romantic and sex life... believe me.😉

jadesailor14 said:reading this actually 😍
gave me a bit of a warm glow, if I'm being honest

and I have to say, Betty Allen15, your optimism is truly something else—you’re a wonderful woman

Much appreciated.😉

Thanks for all the replies everyone... it really feels like there's a wave of optimism flowing through here right now...😍
This... thread has really come back to life lately... there's just this positive energy in the air... maybe Rose brought it with her👍... who knows.. or maybe everyone's just getting back from their summer vacations in California😁 but either way.... it's a great change of pace...

Oh man, I'm heading out in a week! Yippee, I am so happy.. and honestly.... I'm totally feeling that same positive vibe.. we'll see how things turn out though... you know how it is.. everyone keep your fingers crossed for my fish therapy session... hmm....🙏

Best to everyone... =)

Too many people deal with psoriasis without anyone—including ourselves—even noticing it in daily life. There’s no need to spiral into depression over it. I do get the feeling that women tend to struggle a bit more with the mental toll; they seem more susceptible to those mood shifts. For me, the worst stretches were back in elementary and early high school. I'm slowly getting used to it now, though I'd gladly ditch these habits in a heartbeat if I could. You have to stay positive, but it's easier said than done. The other day, I was at the doctor and they told me I have arthritis, which means I'll be spending a few days at the hospital. It immediately trashed my usual laid-back vibe. And being told this could eventually lead to disability? Not exactly the news I was looking for. I was just getting some photos taken of my hands and feet to document the visible signs on my fingers, and looking at sketches online, it's clear I match the descriptions perfectly—even though the official scans claim nothing is visible. I’d be happy if the scans were right, but it's plain as day to the naked eye, and my nails are still slightly pitting. I've learned how to manage that so it doesn't get worse, but still. I rely heavily on bathing and sun exposure; I don't really use creams except for Psorex and a T-gel shampoo, which has been a lifesaver. My main fear is the arthritis catching up to me. I just turned 26, and honestly, I don't need that complication. Not me, and not anyone else. Having a positive outlook matters, so I hope everyone stays strong and grows through this.
I'd also suggest that if anyone wants to step away from the forum, we should try to meet up somewhere in person. It makes things much easier when you can actually help, advise, or support one another face-to-face. Meeting in real life changes the whole dynamic, though I'm sure we can already count on each other whenever someone needs a hand. For instance, since my brother isn't home from college right now, anyone is welcome to come hang out by the coast—you won't have to worry about paying for hotels or accommodations. I truly believe we can help each other more than doctors can. I've been dealing with this for over 15 years, and there's a lady here who's been managing it for over 40, yet in all that time, no cure has appeared—or maybe they just don't want one to. It's strange, like it's something unimportant or easy to ignore, even though we know it's anything but. Some people definitely have it harder than others. At the end of the day, you can't put too much faith in modern medicine. I avoid doctors and hospitals whenever possible; they're just something I deal with out of necessity. I don't rely on them.

silentheron25 said:It seems to me that far too many people are living with psoriasis without either ourselves or those around us even noticing it in the rhythm of daily life, so there really is no reason to spiral into depression over it. I do, however, have this lingering suspicion that women find it a bit more taxing, as if they are naturally more susceptible to being swayed by such moods. For me, the worst stretches were back during my elementary school days and the start of high school, though I’ve gradually grown accustomed to it; I’m somewhat used to it now, even if I would gladly break all these habits in an instant if given the chance. One ought to maintain a positive outlook, but then again, when I was at the doctor's recently and was told I have arthritis—requiring a few days of hospital observation—it immediately shattered that sense of calm I work so hard to maintain. And hearing that this could eventually lead to disability? Well, that wasn't exactly the news I was looking for. I was recently having some clinical photos taken of my hands and feet where the marks on my fingers are quite apparent, and looking at sketches online, I can see that my condition matches perfectly, even though the official imaging reports claim nothing visible is there. I would be happy to believe them, but the physical reality is right before my eyes, coupled with the fact that my nails are still slightly brittle, despite my best efforts to manage it and prevent further damage. I rely heavily on bathing and getting some sun, which is my main hope, as I don't bother with creams aside from Psorexa and a specific T-gel shampoo that has been quite effective for me. My only real fear is the possibility of arthritis setting in, because I've only just turned 26, and frankly, I have no desire for that, nor does anyone else. Still, a positive attitude carries weight, so I hope everyone manages to hold onto theirs and finds themselves growing stronger through it all.
I would also like to propose that if anyone here ever decides to leave this forum, we should try to meet up somewhere in person; it would make things much easier, knowing we can offer one another support, advice, or a helping hand. Once people meet face-to-face, the dynamic changes entirely, though I suspect we can already count on one another if someone truly needs assistance. To give you an idea, if my brother weren't coming home from college, anyone would be welcome to come stay by the coast and enjoy the ocean without worrying about the cost of hotels or lodging. I honestly think we might be able to help each other more than the doctors can, considering I've dealt with this for over fifteen years and there's a lady here who has lived with it for over forty, yet in all those years, no cure has appeared—or perhaps it simply isn't being sought after, which is a strange thought. It's as if this is something trivial to ignore, as if our struggles aren't difficult, even though for some, they certainly are. Ultimately, one shouldn't place too much faith in modern medicine; I tend to avoid doctors and hospitals whenever possible, using them only when absolutely necessary, as I don't rely on them for my well-being.

I agree with your suggestion; I've actually been thinking myself that we should all gather in some city and finally meet one another.🙂

Betty Allen15 said:I really love that suggestion! I was actually thinking we should all meet up somewhere in person soon...🙂

That is such a great idea, I'm totally on board! 🙏 🙏 🙏

Obviously, it would be easiest if everyone just met up in Washington, D.C., but if anyone is interested, I'd love to host in my neck of the woods—Indianapolis! 😉

It would be really great if we could all get together in one place—maybe once summer winds down and things finally settle a bit, both in the world and in our own heads, haha
Best to everyone 😍

So, now that there's actually an idea and some genuine interest on the table, I want everyone to weigh in on what they'd prefer. Maybe a Saturday sometime this fall? Trying to coordinate during the work week is always a headache. Personally, even though I'm originally from California, I think meeting up in Washington, D.C. would be the best move for everyone since we're all scattered across the country.

Washington, D.C. would certainly be an option, though I must admit, it would be quite lovely if they brought it to my neck of the woods in Los Angeles instead.🙂