Psoriatic Arthritis and Sensitive Skin: How to Care for Your Skin During Flares

For many people, living with psoriatic arthritis means flare-ups bring dry skin, itching, redness, and irritation.
In some cases, the skin can feel tight, sore, or painfully sensitive.

Because of this, daily skin care becomes an important part of managing psoriatic arthritis.

This guide explains why sensitive skin happens, what makes it worse, and how to support your skin gently during flares.

Quick takeaway:
Living with psoriatic arthritis often involves managing sensitive skin. Gentle routines and barrier-supporting moisturisers can help during flares.

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Why Psoriatic Arthritis Can Affect the Skin

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition.
That inflammation does not stay in one place.

Instead, it can affect:

• Joints
• Tendons
• Skin
• The skin barrier

When inflammation increases, the skin barrier can weaken.
This allows moisture to escape more easily and irritants to get in.

As a result, skin may become:

• Very dry
• Itchy
• Red or blotchy
• Easily irritated

Even skin that usually feels normal can become sensitive during a flare.

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Common Skin Symptoms During a Flare

Skin changes can vary from person to person.
However, many people with psoriatic arthritis notice:

• Dry, rough patches
• Tight or uncomfortable skin
• Increased itching
• Redness or warmth
• Stinging when products are applied

These symptoms often appear alongside joint pain or fatigue.
They can also worsen during periods of stress, illness, or weather changes.

For many people, living with psoriatic arthritis means adjusting daily routines, including how they care for their skin.

You can read more about how inflammation shows up in everyday symptoms on our guide to psoriatic arthritis symptoms.

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What Can Make Sensitive Skin Worse

During a flare, skin reacts more easily than usual.
Certain habits and products can make irritation worse.

Common triggers include:

• Fragranced skincare products
• Harsh soaps or foaming cleansers
• Long, hot showers
• Scrubbing or exfoliating
• Alcohol-based products

Even products that once worked well may suddenly cause discomfort.

This is why learning how to treat sensitive skin gently becomes especially important during flares.

You can find out more from the Mayo Clinic here.

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Living with Psoriatic Arthritis: Caring for Sensitive Skin During Flares

Gentle, consistent care helps protect the skin barrier.

Key steps include:

1. Keep cleansing mild
Use fragrance-free, non-stripping cleansers.
Avoid anything that leaves skin feeling tight after washing.

2. Moisturise regularly
Apply moisturiser at least once daily.
During flares, twice daily is often better.

3. Apply moisturiser to damp skin
This helps lock in hydration and supports the skin barrier.

4. Avoid unnecessary products
Stick to the basics.
Too many active ingredients can increase irritation.

5. Be patient and consistent
Barrier repair takes time.
Daily care matters more than quick fixes.

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Ingredients That Can Support the Skin Barrier

When skin is inflamed, simple and supportive ingredients work best.

Look for moisturisers that help:

• Attract moisture
• Calm irritation
• Support skin repair

Ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and snail mucin are often well tolerated by sensitive skin because they focus on hydration and barrier support rather than stimulation.

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Where Bragan Skincare Can Fit In

For people with psoriatic arthritis who struggle with dry, reactive skin, using a fragrance-free moisturiser designed for sensitive skin can make daily care easier.

Bragan Skincare’s Atopic Cream is formulated to support compromised skin barriers.
It uses snail mucin to help hydrate, soothe, and support skin repair without added fragrance.

Many people use it as part of a simple routine during flares, alongside gentle cleansing and regular moisturising.

As always, patch testing is recommended, especially during active flares.

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When to Seek Medical Advice

Skincare can help support comfort, but it is not a replacement for medical care.

Speak to your GP, dermatologist, or rheumatologist if:

• Skin becomes painful, cracked, or infected
• Rashes spread quickly
• Symptoms do not improve with gentle care
• You are unsure whether a rash is related to psoriasis

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can psoriatic arthritis cause sensitive skin?
Yes. Inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis can weaken the skin barrier, leading to dryness, itching, and increased sensitivity.

Why does my skin flare when my joints flare?
Systemic inflammation affects the whole body. When inflammation rises, both joints and skin can become more reactive.

Should I change my skincare routine during flares?
Yes. During flares, it is best to simplify your routine and use fragrance-free, gentle products that support the skin barrier.

Is moisturising important if I have psoriatic arthritis?
Absolutely. Regular moisturising helps reduce dryness, itching, and irritation, especially during inflammatory flares.

Can skincare replace medical treatment for psoriatic arthritis?
No. Skincare supports comfort and skin health, but medical advice is essential for managing the underlying condition.

Final Thoughts: Living With Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis affects more than joints.
Skin health matters too.

By keeping routines gentle, avoiding triggers, and supporting the skin barrier daily, many people find their skin feels calmer and more comfortable during flares.

Small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference.

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