Psoriasis is a skin disorder associated with red, scaly patches forming on the skin. Patients may also experience fever, weight loss, and headaches due to this condition. Common triggers for psoriasis include stress and cold, but certain soaps and detergents can also trigger it. Although certain soaps claim to be gentle on psoriasis-prone skin, certain ingredients within can trigger the problem and make symptoms more severe. Here is a list of soaps that may trigger psoriasis:

1. Strong fragrance soaps

Many of the most popular soaps are scented to provide a pleasant scent to the user. Although the scent on these soaps is nice, it can end up removing oils, perspiration, and normal skin bacteria, and may leave an irritating residue on sensitive skin. Fragrances can also exacerbate allergies.

2. Soaps containing methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone 

Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI) are preservatives used in soaps to keep them from spoiling. People with sensitive skin are often allergic to these chemicals, so even small amounts of exposure can result in an allergy.

3. Soaps with botanical oils

Botanical oils such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and eucalyptus are all irritants and can cause a person to develop an allergic reaction. When these soaps are used on the skin, they can cause reactions like redness, dryness, and swelling. The chemicals in these soaps can also make it easier for fungal infections to develop on the skin.

4. Soap with propylene glycol

Propylene glycol is a humectant that attracts and holds moisture to the skin. When exposed to propylene glycol, the skin is more hydrated, resulting in psoriasis symptoms, such as itching and redness.

5. Antibacterial soaps

These soaps are usually made with ingredients such as triclosan, a chemical used in antibacterial soaps. These soaps may trigger psoriasis because they alter the immune system by changing the skin’s pH levels to make it more acidic and, therefore, less able to fight off infection.

6. Soaps with cocamidopropyl betaine 

Cocamidopropyl betaine is derived from coconut oil, and while it has its benefits and uses for treating dry skin; it can irritate the skin of psoriasis patients. Coconut oil is also used in some deep hydrating soaps in addition to other ingredients like olive oil or clay. These soaps have softening and lathering properties because of these additional ingredients. However, these soaps can aggravate psoriasis, and have been linked to increased allergic reactions and skin reactions in those with eczema or psoriasis.