Equinox time

This period of the year can feel like a fresh start, but it can also be a mixed experience if you live with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. At the spring equinox, day and night are roughly in balance – a natural turning point that many people see as a chance to reset and gently rethink their routines. If you live with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, this moment of balance can be a helpful reminder to check in with yourself too:

• How your skin and joints are feeling
• What is helping, and
• Where small changes might make life a little easier in the weeks ahead.

As the days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise, it is very common to notice changes in your skin, joints and energy levels. For some people, spring brings real relief after a difficult winter; for others, pollen, sudden shifts in temperature and the pressure to do ‘too much too soon’ can make symptoms harder to manage.

As we move into a new season: Notice your own patterns, stay in tune with your treatment plan and aim for small, kind, realistic adjustments to everyday life rather than big changes all at once.

Maintain your skincare routine: Try to keep using emollients and any prescribed treatments regularly, even if plaques seem to be easing with the better weather. This can help protect your skin and reduce the risk of new flares.

Build activity gradually: If brighter days have encouraged you to walk more, do some gardening or try new exercises, increase activity in small steps. Giving your body time to adapt can help avoid overloading painful or stiff joints.

Watch for your personal triggers: For some, this may be pollen and hay fever; for others, it might be stress around exams, holidays or work deadlines. Jotting down what you notice in a simple diary can make patterns easier to spot and discuss with your healthcare team.

Dress for changeable days: Wearing layers can help you stay warm when it is cool and avoid overheating when the sun appears, which can be especially helpful if temperature swings seem to affect your symptoms.

Protect your skin from the sun: A little natural light can be helpful for some types of psoriasis, but it is still important to avoid sunburn and follow the guidance in your treatment information.

However, the equinox and changing seasons affect you this year, we hope you can find moments of comfort, small positives and things you enjoy, at a pace that feels right for you.