How to Choose Pillowcases for Psoriasis

If you suffer from psoriasis, you know how difficult it can be to manage the symptoms – especially at night when you’re trying to get some rest. Psoriasis is a condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, resulting in redness, itching, and irritation. Fortunately, there are ways you can alleviate these symptoms, and one of the most effective is to choose pillowcases that are specifically designed for people with psoriasis. In this article, we will look at how to choose the right pillowcases for psoriasis and other tips to help you sleep more comfortably.

Understanding Psoriasis and Its Impact on Skin Health

Before we dive into the details of how to choose the right pillowcases for psoriasis, it’s essential to understand the condition itself. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects more than 8 million Americans. The condition speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, resulting in thick, scaly patches called plaques.

Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, including the scalp, nails, and joints. It can be painful, itchy, and cause discomfort, especially at night. Sleep quality can be severely affected by the discomfort caused by psoriasis symptoms. It’s crucial to find ways to alleviate these symptoms so that you can get a good night’s sleep.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Pillowcase for Psoriasis

Choosing the right pillowcase is essential for anyone with psoriasis. Your choice of pillowcase can have a significant impact on skin health and can either exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis or help to alleviate them. A pillowcase that is unsuitable for psoriasis can irritate the skin and cause further inflammation and itching, resulting in a more severe flare-up.

The right pillowcase, on the other hand, can provide the much-needed relief to your symptoms, promoting a better and more restful sleep. This is why it’s essential to understand the factors to consider when choosing pillowcases for psoriasis.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pillowcases for Psoriasis

Choosing the right pillowcase for psoriasis can be a bit overwhelming, given the variety of options available in the market. Here are some critical factors to keep in mind when choosing a pillowcase for psoriasis:

1. Fabric Type

The material of your pillowcase can significantly affect the level of comfort, breathability, and irritation experienced by your skin. Materials that work well for people with psoriasis include cotton, silk, and bamboo. These fabrics are breathable, hypoallergenic, and gentle on the skin, allowing air to circulate and prevent sweating, which can cause irritation.

2. Thread Count and Weave

Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric. The higher the thread count, the softer the material. A high thread count pillowcase is better for people with psoriasis as it results in a smoother, more comfortable surface that is less likely to irritate the skin. Additionally, a percale weave gives the fabric a smooth and crisp feel that’s less likely to rub and cause irritation on the skin, making it an excellent choice for people with psoriasis.

3. Size and Shape

The size and shape of your pillowcase should align with the size of your pillow, ensuring a comfortable fit. A well-fitting pillowcase is less likely to bunch up, which can cause skin irritation and scratchiness. A standard size pillowcase typically measures 20×26 inches, while a king-size pillowcase is usually 20×36 inches.

4. Color

The color of your pillowcase may not seem like a critical factor, but certain colors can cause irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin. Vibrant colors and dyes can trigger itching and rashes. It’s advisable to stick to neutral colors and avoid vibrant patterns and dyes.

Materials That Are Best Suited for Pillowcases for Psoriasis

When it comes to choosing the right material for your pillowcase, you have several options. These materials are soft, gentle on the skin, and breathable, making them ideal for people with psoriasis. Here are some of the materials to consider:

1. Cotton

Cotton is a popular choice when it comes to pillowcases because it is soft, durable, and breathable. It feels gentle on the skin and does not cause irritation, making it an ideal material for people with psoriasis. Cotton pillowcases are also easy to wash and maintain, and they are widely available in stores.

2. Silk

Silk is a luxurious material that is gentle on the skin and hypoallergenic. It feels cool and smooth on the skin, making it an excellent choice if you suffer from psoriasis. Silk pillowcases are also good at preventing hair breakage, which can be a benefit for people with psoriasis affecting the scalp. However, silk pillowcases are relatively expensive and require special care when washing and maintaining.

3. Bamboo

Bamboo is a natural, sustainable fabric that is hypoallergenic and soft to the touch, making it ideal for people with psoriasis. Bamboo pillowcases are also naturally moisture-wicking, which is beneficial because moisture can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Additionally, bamboo fabrics tend to be eco-friendly and comfortable, contributing to a more restful sleep.

Thread Count and Weave – What You Need to Know When Selecting Pillowcases for Psoriasis

Thread count and weave are critical factors to consider when selecting pillowcases for people with psoriasis. Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into the fabric per square inch. The higher the thread count, the more tightly woven the fabric is, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable surface.

A percale weave is the best type of weave when it comes to choosing pillowcases for psoriasis. It has a tight weave that makes the material feel crisp and smooth to the touch, reducing the likelihood of irritation and itchiness. Additionally, it does not pill or develop lumps, resulting in a longer-lasting and more comfortable pillowcase.

Features to Look for in Pillowcases for Psoriasis-Prone Skin

When selecting pillowcases for psoriasis-prone skin, you should look out for pillowcases that have the following features:

1. Hypoallergenic

Pillowcases that are hypoallergenic are free of irritants that can trigger allergic reactions resulting in itching and irritation. Hypoallergenic fabrics such as cotton, silk, and bamboo are gentle on the skin and safe for people with psoriasis.

2. Breathable

A breathable fabric allows air to circulate, preventing sweating, and reducing the chances of irritation. Materials like cotton and bamboo are excellent choices for people with psoriasis as they allow air to move through the fabric, resulting in a cool and comfortable sleep.

3. Moisture-Wicking

Bamboo is a material that naturally wicks moisture away from the skin, which can help minimize irritation and itching. If you experience psoriasis symptoms at night, you may benefit from choosing a fabric that can wick away moisture, such as a bamboo pillowcase.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pillowcases and Preventing Irritation

Preventing irritation is essential when it comes to managing psoriasis symptoms. Here are some tips to help you maintain your pillowcases and prevent irritation:

1. Wash Your Pillowcases Regularly

Washing your pillowcases regularly is essential for preventing the accumulation of dirt, dust, and skin cells that can cause irritation. For people with psoriasis, it’s best to wash your pillowcases every one to two weeks, depending on symptoms.

2. Use Mild Detergents

Strong detergents can irritate the skin, causing itching and flaring up symptoms. It’s best to use mild, fragrance-free detergents when washing your pillowcases to avoid irritation.

3. Avoid Fabric Softeners

Fabric softeners can contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. It’s best to avoid using fabric softeners when washing your pillowcases and instead opt for an unscented, hypoallergenic laundry detergent.

Other Products That Can Help Manage Psoriasis Symptoms While Sleeping

In addition to pillowcases, there are other products you can use to manage psoriasis symptoms while sleeping. These products can help alleviate the itching and irritation associated with psoriasis, resulting in a more restful sleep. Some of the products you can try include:

1. Moisturizing Creams

Applying moisturizing creams before going to bed can help soothe dry and itchy skin, preventing soreness and cracking. Use a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer that does not contain any irritating chemicals.

2. Humidifiers

Humidifiers can help add moisture to the air, reducing the likelihood of dry and itchy skin. Placing a humidifier in your room can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms, allowing you to have a more restful sleep.

3. Cooling Pads

Cooling pads or compresses can help reduce inflammation and itching caused by psoriasis. Placing a cool pad or compress on the affected area can help soothe the skin, resulting in relief and an improved sleep quality.

Real-Life Success Stories: How the Right Pillowcase Can Make a Difference in Managing Psoriasis Symptoms

There are many success stories of people with psoriasis who found relief by choosing the right pillowcase. These stories highlight the importance of selecting the right material, thread count, and weave to alleviate psoriasis symptoms and promote a restful sleep. By choosing the right pillowcases for psoriasis, you too can experience an improvement in your sleep quality and alleviate your psoriasis symptoms.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pillowcase is critical for people with psoriasis seeking relief from the symptoms that can flare up at night. The right material, thread count, and weave can ensure a smoother, more comfortable surface that reduces irritation and itching. Factors such as size, shape, and color are also important to consider when choosing the right pillowcase for psoriasis.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can choose the right pillowcases for your psoriasis-prone skin, manage your symptoms while sleeping, and experience an improved sleep quality. When shopping for pillowcases, remember to consider hypoallergenic, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics, thread count, and weave to select the best option for your needs.