vitamin D based treatments
Research has focused on the ability of vitamin D to heal psoriasis. Sufferers of psoriasis know that sunlight can help to heal psoriasis and improve its symptoms. As sunlight stimulates vitamin D production, it is now thought its role in psoriasis relief may have to do with a mechanism related to vitamin D receptors in the skin. It is believed that vitamin D stops skins cells from overproducing, thus preventing the development of psoriasis and reducing plaques that have already developed.
The use of topical treatments and supplements are a way of absorbing vitamin D.
Topical treatments
Vitamin D analogues, which are creams, ointments and lotions that contain drugs related to vitamin D, are applied to the skin. Topical treatments may absorb to a small degree but they are usually intended to stay on the surface.
Oral vitamin D has limited use due to side effects. Topical treatments provide a safe and effective alternative.
Topical treatments such as Calcipotriene (Dovonix), Calcitriol (Silkis) and Tacalcitol (Curatoderm) analogues are prescription treatments widely prescribed by doctors. They are easy to apply, however signs of your psoriasis improving will be gradual and if used correctly you may achieve a reduction of psoriasis plaques. The treatments promote normal skin cell growth and prevent accelerated skin cell growth. They are not steroids and can therefore be used over a longer period of time.
A vitamin D analogue can be used in combination with another treatment for psoriasis if either treatment on its own is proving insufficient. For example a steriod may be prescribed alongside a vitamin D topical treatment.
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In humans, the natural supply of vitamin D depends on exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun for 7-dehydrocholesterol to vitamin D3. Therefore some people may consider using light therapy (ultraviolet B – UVB) alongside using a vitamin D topical treatment.
Supplements
The most efficient method of vitamin intake is to incorporate the vitamin into your diet. Sources of vitamin D are: salmon, tuna fish, milk (preferably non-fat), mackerel, cereals fortified with vitamin D, eggs, Swiss cheese and puddings made with vitamin D fortified milk.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 10 January 2011
Next Review Date: 10 January 2013
