The Winter Solstice is the solar term with the shortest daylight, greatest yin and cold; low temperatures, dry air, and reduced sunlight make it a critical period when psoriasis is prone to relapse or exacerbation. As a dermatologist, I recommend that patients with psoriasis pay special attention to the following points during the Winter Solstice and throughout the winter:

1. Strictly prevent cold stimulation and keep warm

Cold can cause cutaneous vasoconstriction and microcirculatory disturbances, precipitating or aggravating skin lesions. When going outside, be sure to wear scarves, gloves, and hats, with emphasis on protecting distal areas such as the head, neck, hands, and feet; keep indoor temperature appropriate (20–22℃) and avoid large temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.

2. Eat sensibly, avoid "holiday traps"

There are customs of eating dumplings and mutton soup at the Winter Solstice, but psoriasis patients should be cautious:

Avoid spicy and warming foods (such as Chinese chives, mutton, chili) to prevent fueling internal heat and triggering inflammation;

Avoid alcohol, fried foods, and high-sugar, high-fat diets;

For dumpling filling, choose light vegetables (such as Chinese cabbage, shiitake mushrooms) combined with a small amount of lean meat; cooking methods should be mainly steaming or boiling, with minimal oil and salt.

3. Strengthen skin hydration to prevent dryness and cracking

In winter sebum secretion decreases and the skin barrier becomes more vulnerable. Immediately after bathing apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer (for example containing ceramides, urea, or glycerin) 2–3 times daily, especially to lesional areas, to reduce scaling and pruritus.

4. Moderate sun exposure to supplement vitamin D

After the Winter Solstice, yang energy begins to rise. Although midday sunlight is weak, moderate sun exposure (10–15 minutes/day, avoid strong winds) helps the skin synthesize vitamin D and regulate immune function. If sunlight is insufficient, appropriate vitamin D supplementation can be taken under physician guidance.

5. Maintain emotional stability and regular rest

During holidays people tend to stay up late and experience mood fluctuations, and psychological stress is a recognized trigger for psoriasis. Ensure adequate sleep, avoid overexertion, and relieve stress through meditation, light exercise, and similar methods.