Collagen and Psoriasis: How Collagen Can Improve Symptoms

Collagen and Psoriasis: How Can Collagen Improve Symptoms? Psoriasis causes patches of itchy, discolored, scaly skin that range in color from silvery-white to gray.

If you're among the estimated 3% of adults in the U.S. who live with this autoimmune condition, you probably already know that treatment often involves trial and error. Treatment for psoriasis typically includes topical creams and gels that help:

• targeting the overproduction of skin cells,
• minimizing the appearance of flaky skin,
• reducing inflammation and skin discoloration.

However, these standard methods don’t work the same for everyone, which is why many patients turn to complementary or alternative remedies, such as collagen. While the evidence supporting collagen’s effectiveness in treating psoriasis remains largely anecdotal, some believe its anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the severity of symptoms.

Collagen and Psoriasis: How can collagen improve psoriasis symptoms?

Although research on the effects of collagen on psoriasis is limited, it may have certain benefits:

May reduce inflammation

Psoriatic plaques are associated with inflammation, which can have long-term consequences, such as psoriatic arthritis or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Collagen may reduce inflammation through its anti-inflammatory properties:

• Research from 2018 showed that amino acids in collagen can reduce inflammation in arthritis.
• Collagen plays an essential role in wound healing, reducing inflammation and supporting skin regeneration.

May improve skin elasticity

Collagen contributes to skin health by promoting the growth of strong, healthy tissues. In addition, it can:

• maintains skin elasticity,
• reduces skin thinning,
• keep the skin smooth.

Standard psoriasis treatments , such as corticosteroids, can thin the skin. Collagen supplementation may help maintain skin health during treatment.

How you can try collagen for psoriasis

Collagen can be consumed in different forms:

• powders that can be added to soups, smoothies or tea,
• supplements in capsule form,
• foods rich in collagen, such as bone broth or organ meats.

Although collagen injections are used to reduce visible signs of aging, there is no research to support their use in the treatment of psoriasis.

Types of collagen

There are 28 types of collagen, but type 1 is the most common in the body. Marine collagen supplements are often preferred due to better absorption and reduced risk of inflammatory reactions.

Safety and side effects

Collagen is generally considered safe for most people, but it may cause:

• decreased appetite,
• heartburn,
• digestive problems.

Also, people prone to kidney stones should avoid collagen because it contains hydroxyproline, which can contribute to the formation of oxalates.

Other treatment options for psoriasis

If you want alternatives to prescribed medication, you can try:

• Turmeric : Curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound, may reduce the growth of skin cells involved in psoriasis.
• Coconut oil : with moisturizing and soothing properties.
• Phototherapy : uses UV light to act on the T cells of the immune system.
• Dietary changes : Gluten-free, keto, or paleo diets may help manage psoriasis.
• Vitamin D : Oral or topical supplements may have effects comparable to corticosteroids.
• Fish oil : may help manage psoriasis and related inflammatory conditions.