Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition causing thick, red patches with silvery scales that often itch, burn, and are painful. Many individuals with psoriasis seek ways to manage their symptoms, and cold showers are one method gaining attention regarding their potential effectiveness.
How Cold Exposure Affects the Body
Cold exposure triggers physiological responses. When skin contacts cold water, blood vessels narrow (vasoconstriction), limiting blood flow. This can reduce inflammatory cells and potentially lessen inflammation. Cold also dampens neurological signals, which may reduce pain and itching perception.
The nervous system reacts to cold by initially activating the sympathetic system, increasing alertness. Afterward, the parasympathetic system becomes more active, potentially promoting calmness. Cold exposure can also stimulate neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, influencing mood and focus, and endorphins, known for pain relief.
Current Understanding of Cold Showers for Psoriasis
Direct scientific evidence specifically linking cold showers to significant improvement in psoriasis symptoms is limited, with large-scale clinical trials not widely available. However, cold exposure’s general physiological effects offer a theoretical basis for potential relief. Cold water’s ability to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation might theoretically lessen the redness and swelling of psoriasis plaques. Its numbing effect on nerves could provide temporary relief from intense itching and pain. Anecdotal reports suggest cold showers have helped reduce scaling, calm scalp psoriasis, or prevent new patches for some individuals.
Practical Guidance for Trying Cold Showers
For those considering cold showers as a complementary approach, a gradual introduction is advisable. Begin by ending a warm shower with a short burst of cooler water, progressively decreasing temperature and increasing duration. Aim for cool to cold water, not freezing, starting with 30 seconds to a few minutes.
Consistency can be beneficial, with some individuals incorporating cold showers daily or several times a week. Listen to your body, adjusting temperature and duration as needed, and stop immediately if discomfort occurs. After a cold shower, gently pat skin dry and apply moisturizer to lock in moisture, which benefits psoriasis.
Important Considerations and Medical Advice
Cold showers are not a substitute for prescribed medical treatments for psoriasis; they should be considered a complementary approach. Individual responses to cold therapy vary, and what helps one person may not be effective for another.
Certain medical conditions make cold showers unsafe. Individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure, Raynaud’s phenomenon, or severe circulatory issues should avoid them due to vasoconstriction risk and increased cardiovascular stress. People with asthma, diabetes, or cold-induced urticaria (hives) should also exercise caution. Always consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider before incorporating cold showers into a psoriasis management plan, especially if underlying health concerns exist.