Ear psoriasis is a pain. Ears are very irritating (literally!) places to get psoriasis: it’s very hard to reach the spot with the emollient creams you’d usually use, and absolutely infuriating if it’s painful or itchy!

Psoriasis is an auto-immune condition; it causes the overproduction of skin cells, resulting in the buildup of scales or flakes. If that happens within the ear canal, it can cause intense irritation, itchiness, and even lead to hearing difficulties. But the good news is that there are a few simple things you can do if you find your ears are bearing the brunt of a psoriasis flare, which can help make things a bit easier for your skin.

First things first: NEVER insert anything into your ear, however tempting! If you’re finding the build-up of skin cells in your ear is making it difficult to hear, consult your doctor; they can refer you to have any debris extracted.

1. Check your haircare: shampoos, hairspray or conditioners that contain perfume or irritating preservatives can aggravate psoriasis, especially in the ears. Swap them out for natural, non-irritant alternatives.
2. Check your make-up and skincare for similarly irritant ingredients.
3. Check - and avoid! - your triggers: what makes you flare up? Is it stress? Certain things you’re eating? Alcohol? Temperature changes?
4. Use emollient ointments outside the ear canal: Balmonds Skin Salvation is a good choice.
5. Use an oil inside the ear canal: warm a few drops of a nourishing, anti-inflammatory natural oil in a spoon, then drip a few drops into the ear canal. Don’t poke it!

Recommended products: Balmonds Scalp Oil with tea tree, nettle & calendula, £14.99 for 50ml.

Scalp Oil is formulated with effective, naturally antimicrobial oils as well as the skin-nourishing nutrients that psoriasis-prone skin needs in an emollient.