Coping with itching
Genital psoriasis causes itching for some people. Aloe vera gel is a mild, relatively inexpensive product that is effective in relieving itching for some people. Colloidal oatmeal mixed in bath water or apple cider vinegar mixed in bath water is useful for soaking the affected areas, two to three times a day for 20-minute periods.
Itching in the rectal area may be very uncomfortable. Some doctors prescribe anti-yeast and steroid combinations, such as Mycolog Cream or Lotrisone. These help, but they can cause thinning of the skin if overused.
Oral antihistamines are occasionally prescribed for itching, but may make you drowsy. Anti-itch preparations containing pramoxine, menthol or camphor can help relieve the itching.
Diaper rash products such as A & D Ointment, Desitin and Bag Balm, can also help alleviate itch. Chilled Noxzema may also help relieve itching for some people. These products can be found at your local drugstore.
Using a 1:4 mixture of white vinegar and cool water (1 part vinegar to 4 parts cool water) can help with inflammation and itching. It can also decrease bacterial and yeast colonization, which may reduce irritation and inflammation. Soaking a wash cloth in the solution and applying it to the affected area twice a day for 5 to 10 minutes can be helpful.
The type of underclothing you wear matters, too. Cotton undergarments are preferable to nylon. Tight underwear may aggravate psoriasis. Formaldehyde, a chemical used in permanent press fabrics, has been shown to irritate the skin. Washing new clothes before wearing them may help.
Products containing or coated with latex, including some feminine hygiene products, have been reported (in limited cases) to irritate psoriasis in the genital area.
Updated June 2004
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