Psoriasis association organises sea swimming

The Faroese Psoriasis Association organises monthly sea swimming sessions, with the latest held in Fuglafjørður, as saltwater is believed to moisturise the skin and alleviate symptoms.

Around 15 people attended the session, including Lis from Fuglafjørður, who reported improved skin condition after swimming. “Those who often swim with me say my skin looks better, so I think it helps with psoriasis,” she said.

Anna Maria Venned, a board member of the association, acknowledged that while psoriasis can be distressing, the group aims to show that nothing is wrong with those affected. She noted that saltwater restores moisture to the dry skin caused by the condition.

However, there is no scientific evidence confirming that swimming improves psoriasis, according to Edith Vang, a dermatology nurse at the National Hospital. “It’s neither recommended nor discouraged by healthcare professionals, but if it feels good, people should just go out and do it,” she said.

About 2% of the Faroese population has psoriasis, with roughly 80 members in the association. The group seeks to raise awareness and reach more people across the islands.