Psoriasis Holiday Gifts: a 2020 Wish List

My kids often complain about how impossible it is to find a gift for me. So with the holidays and Black Friday shopping around the corner, I wanted to give them a personalized holiday gift guide.

This is not a typical list, though; I don’t need another tie or slippers. What I need are things that can help me manage and care for my psoriasis.

I didn’t add the gift I’d like most of all: a cure for my psoriasis. Still, I added an item or two that might be a reach — plus one that’s a total fantasy at this point in the pandemic. It doesn’t hurt to dream a little during the holidays.

Here’s my psoriasis holiday gift list:

Over-the-Counter Skin-Care Products That Won’t Blow the Budget

I am particular about shampoo, body wash, and moisturizers. Since I have sensitive, dry skin I look for formulations that are free of parabens, dyes, fragrances, and other allergens. I also look for items that are sold in bulk, moderately priced, or on sale since I use them daily and cost can become an issue.

A few products I wouldn’t mind finding in a gift bag include CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Cetaphil Restoraderm Soothing Wash, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo. I’ve used these products over the years and found them helpful for managing my psoriasis without irritating my skin.

Coffee Beans for Home-Roasting Happiness

I’ve become quite fond of coffee since I met my wife, who has been an avid coffee drinker since college. Anything related to coffee, including whole beans or gift cards to coffee shops, makes a great gift for me. I felt relieved to read about studies showing that coffee doesn’t affect psoriasis risk, and might even provide anti-inflammatory effects for some people. I haven’t noticed any negative effects of coffee on my skin and enjoy it as a hobby and social outlet.

A New Pair of Walking Shoes to Step Out In

I’m a runner at heart, but I’ve come to appreciate walking to lessen the wear and tear on my knees from jogging. It’s also been a great way to get outside during the pandemic, either to exercise with my wife or spend time enjoying nature alone. I feel more at peace after a walk or hike and tend to sleep better too.

Exercise is important for people with psoriasis, who are at higher risk for diseases such as heart attack, stroke, obesity, and depression, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Bucket List Trip for Something to Dream About

The gift of travel would be incredible after the pandemic eases, but for now it’s just a fantasy. My younger daughter mentioned she wanted to give me a trip to a Dead Sea psoriasis treatment center. One study showed treatment with sun exposure and bathing improved quality of life even if it did not provide long- term psoriasis improvements. It’s a trip on my bucket list.

Framed Family Portrait to Honor My Support Team

You can read more about my experiences in my blog for ishonest and on my website.

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