Psoriasis and handwashing
We all know that the best thing we can do to try to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to wash our hands for at least 20 seconds frequently throughout the day. We are told that if soap and water is not available a hand sanitiser containing alcohol is the next best thing.
Soap dries out the skin, so often people with psoriasis use a soap substitute. It is not known whether soap substitutes are as effective as soap for removing any trace of the virus, because tiny particles of the virus could remain in the left over emollient that has not been completely rinsed off your skin so using a traditional soap is recommended by the NHS in the fight against COVID-19.
After washing your hands as per the Government advice you could then wash them again with your moisturising soap substitute and then rinse your hands thoroughly under running water to remove any soap residue, pat them dry and then moisturise your hands really well with an emollient to stop them drying out.
If possible try to avoid alcohol based hand sanitisers altogether but as with soap if you have no alternative make sure to moisturise them really well after. It is best to chose a moisturiser that has no perfume in it as this could also dry out and irritate your skin. If you can get to a pharmacy they are the best placed to recommend one suitable for your skin that will not irritate your psoriasis.
