Can Collagen Support Psoriasis Relief? Discover the Latest Insights

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by itchy, discolored skin patches covered with silvery to gray scales.

Approximately 3% of adults in the U.S. experience psoriasis, and managing this condition often involves trialing various treatments.

Standard psoriasis therapies typically include topical creams and gels aimed to:

• Control excessive skin cell production
• Reduce flaky skin visibility
• Alleviate inflammation and skin discoloration

However, these treatments don’t always provide sufficient relief, prompting many to explore complementary options such as collagen supplementation.

Although scientific evidence remains limited and mixed, collagen’s potential to reduce inflammation has sparked interest in its role in managing psoriasis symptoms.

Read on to understand collagen’s functions and why it might be a beneficial addition to psoriasis care.

Understanding Collagen

Collagen is a vital protein that provides structure and strength to various body parts, including:

• Bones
• Skin
• Muscles
• Connective tissues

As the most abundant protein in both humans and animals, collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity, bone density, hair and nail strength, joint support, ligament and tendon integrity, and wound healing.

Your body naturally produces collagen (endogenous collagen), but it can also be obtained from external sources like supplements (exogenous collagen).

Besides structural roles, collagen promotes cell regeneration and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.

Potential Benefits of Collagen for Psoriasis

Many collagen supplements on the market claim to aid psoriasis, yet comprehensive research is still developing.

Inflammation Reduction

Psoriasis plaques are linked to inflammation, which can also increase risks for conditions like psoriatic arthritis and heart disease.

Research highlights that lowering systemic inflammation may mitigate these risks, and collagen’s anti-inflammatory amino acids could contribute to this effect.

• A 2018 study found collagen’s amino acids may reduce inflammation in arthritis.
• Research in 2021 emphasized collagen’s role in wound healing and inflammation control.
• A 2019 study connected psoriasis with other inflammatory diseases, suggesting inflammation reduction as a therapeutic strategy.

Enhancing Skin Elasticity

Collagen supports healthy skin by promoting strong, elastic tissue and reducing wrinkle formation by increasing skin collagen density.

Psoriasis treatments like corticosteroids can thin skin, so collagen supplementation might help maintain skin integrity alongside prescribed therapies.

How to Incorporate Collagen for Psoriasis

Collagen is available in various forms:

• Powders for adding to beverages and meals
• Capsules and pills
• Collagen-rich foods such as bone broth and organ meats

Note: Collagen injections are not supported by research for psoriasis treatment.

Types and Sources of Collagen

There are 28 collagen types, with type 1 being most prevalent. Some individuals use type 2 collagen, primarily found in cartilage, for psoriasis.

Collagen supplements derive from animals like cows, pigs, and marine sources. Marine collagen is often preferred for better absorption, lower inflammation risk, and environmental benefits.

Bone broth’s collagen content may vary, making supplements a more reliable source, typically providing 2.5 to 20 grams per serving.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting collagen supplements, as they are not FDA-regulated.

Safety and Considerations

Collagen is generally safe but may cause mild side effects such as appetite loss, heartburn, or digestive discomfort.

Individuals prone to kidney stones should exercise caution due to hydroxyproline converting to oxalates.

Allergic reactions are possible from animal proteins in collagen supplements. Vegetarians and vegans may opt for plant-based collagen alternatives.

Consult your healthcare professional before adding collagen to your regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.

Alternative Psoriasis Treatments

Other complementary therapies include:

• Turmeric: Contains curcumin with anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing skin cell overgrowth.
• Coconut Oil: Used for moisturizing and soothing properties.
• Light Therapy: Ultraviolet light targets immune cells involved in psoriasis.
• Dietary Changes: Gluten-free, keto, or paleo diets may help reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin D: Oral and topical forms may be as effective as corticosteroids.
• Fish Oil: Supports management of psoriasis and related inflammatory conditions.

Final Thoughts

Psoriasis is deeply connected to inflammation and immune system responses. While collagen alone is unlikely to cure psoriasis, its skin-supporting and anti-inflammatory benefits make it a valuable complementary option.

Always seek professional medical advice before starting collagen or any new supplement to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Written by Courtney Telloian, a health writer specializing in holistic wellness and mental health topics.

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