Kim Kardashian, the multi-faceted celebrity known for her carefully curated public image, recently shared an unconventional skincare routine for managing her psoriasis. On a recent episode of the SHE MD podcast, Kardashian disclosed that she uses Saran Wrap to alleviate her psoriasis symptoms—a tip she picked up from her dermatologist after trying various other home remedies without success.
Kardashian, 43, who stars in FX’s “American Horror Story: Delicate,” opened up about her struggle with psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that accelerates skin cell growth, leading to painful plaques and scales. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, the condition can also cause itching, burning, and stinging sensations.
During the podcast, Kardashian recounted her initial encounter with psoriasis, mistaking the symptoms for a reaction to a new dress. Her mother, Kris Jenner, who also has the condition, recognized the signs and confirmed the diagnosis. Although a cortisone injection provided temporary relief, the symptoms returned persistently after five years.
Describing the intense discomfort, Kardashian said, “One day I’ll just have an itch attack, and I’ll scratch it, and it’ll all start bleeding, and I just can’t take it.” She mentioned trying numerous remedies, including tar tea, herbal treatments, a celery juice cleanse, and various creams and soaps, but found the most effective solution in a common household item: Saran Wrap.
Following her dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer’s advice, Kardashian applies a prescription cream to the affected areas and then wraps them in Saran Wrap overnight. While the method might seem unconventional, Kardashian affirmed its effectiveness, humorously noting that it made her feel like “the Tin Man.”
The Science Behind Saran Wrap for Psoriasis
Experts confirm that using Saran Wrap as part of occlusion therapy can indeed benefit psoriasis patients. Dr. Amy Huang, a board-certified dermatologist with Medical Offices of Manhattan and a contributor to Labfinder, explained that occlusion therapy helps enhance the efficacy of topical medications by increasing their penetration into the skin. This method is also used for other dermatologic conditions, including eczema.
Dr. Anju Methil, a dermatologist and medical consultant with ClinicSpots, added that occlusion therapy helps soften plaques, loosen scales, and reduce inflammation. However, she noted that while there is limited research specifically on Saran Wrap, occlusive dressings have shown promise in treating psoriasis.
Other Effective Home Remedies for Psoriasis
Dr. Methil recommends several other home remedies that can help manage psoriasis symptoms. She advises using fragrance-free moisturizers regularly to improve skin comfort during flare-ups. Colloidal oatmeal baths are another effective measure, thanks to their anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties. Additionally, controlled sunlight exposure can benefit some psoriasis patients, though it’s crucial to consult a doctor to avoid sunburn.
Caylee Clay, a dietitian-nutritionist specializing in psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases, also shared her personal remedy: applying a mixture of Vicks Vaporub and apple cider vinegar to psoriasis patches before wrapping them in Saran Wrap. She explained that menthol in Vicks has antimicrobial properties and accelerates wound healing, while apple cider vinegar’s acidity makes it antibacterial and probiotic. Clay highlighted that psoriasis plaques have an altered microbiome, and this combination can help restore balance.
Clay also recommends Epsom salt baths, which can be enhanced with a splash of apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil. After soaking, she suggests gently exfoliating thickened skin with a washcloth and moisturizing thoroughly. Additionally, she noted that walnut oil, rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, can soothe the skin, but it should be followed by a moisturizer as walnut oil alone can be drying.
Conclusion
Kim Kardashian’s revelation about using Saran Wrap to manage her psoriasis has shed light on an effective, though unconventional, home remedy. Experts agree that occlusive therapies like Saran Wrap can enhance the penetration and efficacy of psoriasis medications. Alongside this method, other home remedies such as fragrance-free moisturizers, colloidal oatmeal baths, controlled sunlight exposure, Vicks Vaporub with vinegar, Epsom salt soaks, and walnut oil can also provide relief for psoriasis sufferers.
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