Omega-3s Increase Effectiveness of Psoriasis Creams and Lotions
Psoriasis: Omega-3 Supplements Improve Local Therapies
Combining Omega-3 with the use of creams and remedies for psoriasis based on vitamin D increases the effectiveness of treatment for this skin disease. The benefits of Omega-3 on psoriasis may already be visible after 8 weeks, according to a study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology1.
Researchers at the Hospital Universitario Sagrat Cor in Barcelona (Spain) demonstrated that combining the use of creams and lotions with Omega-3 intake allows:
- improvement of typical psoriasis symptoms, such as itching and scaling;
- better quality of life for patients.
Psoriasis, a Skin Disorder Linked to Inflammation
Psoriasis is a chronic disorder that depends on the activity of the immune system. Inflammation of the dermis (the deep layer of the skin) is a fundamental characteristic, demonstrated by several studies that have identified some of the molecules involved in this inflammatory process. The treatment of psoriasis currently involves applying creams or ointments with various active ingredients on areas of skin that show patches and scaling. Among the most innovative psoriasis preparations are derivatives of vitamin D. Used in combination with other medications, they can also be applied for long periods, allowing maintenance treatments.
Why Treat Psoriasis with Omega-3?
Various studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3 EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and Omega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) reduce inflammatory symptoms associated with several skin diseases. Indeed, the intake of these fatty acids limits the spread of the inflammatory process typical of some dermatological disorders. For this reason, some researchers have evaluated the effect of daily EPA and DHA intake in patients with psoriasis: analysis of the so-called Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) suggests that Omega-3 can be effective. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index measures the following clinical factors and symptoms:
- extent
- scaling
- erythema
- thickening of patches
- itching
The results of this new study confirmed this hypothesis, adding new details.
Omega-3, Better Together
The authors involved 30 patients with mild to moderate psoriasis, who were asked to apply a vitamin D derivative product on the patches. Half of the participants also took two capsules daily of a supplement containing Omega-3. The severity of the disorder was evaluated at the start of treatment and after 4 and 8 weeks of product application and fatty acid intake. The following evaluation indices were used:
- PASI, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, which evaluates extent, scaling, erythema, thickening of patches, and clinical symptoms such as itching;
- NAPSI, Nail Psoriasis Severity Index, which evaluates symptoms involving the nails;
- DLQI, Dermatological Life Quality Index, which evaluates the impact of skin problems on quality of life.
All patients experienced significant improvements in all indices, but results were better in those who also took Omega-3. Based on these results, the researchers concluded that Omega-3 effects complement topical products and help reduce psoriasis symptoms.
Source:
1. Balbás GM, Regaña MS, Millet PU, “Study on the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a therapeutic supplement in treatment of psoriasis”, Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2011;4:73-7. Epub 2011 Jun 20.
