There is much controversy today surrounding the use of dietary supplements such as zinc in the treatment of eczema, also known as, atopic dermatitis. Eczema is characterized by swollen, red, itchy skin and is caused by allergies, irritants, genetics and diseases. Eczema can be a serious, disfiguring and uncomfortable skin condition. It may also become a source of infection as well as a stressor, affecting emotional well-being in some patients.
Expert Insight
According to the National Institutes of Health, zinc deficiency is characterized by physical growth delay, loss of appetite, gastric dysfunction, impaired hormonal and immune function, weight loss, lethargy, eye lesions and, most significantly, delayed wound healing and skin lesions. These findings, particularly, those involving skin health, are compelling and may have important implications for the controversial use of zinc dietary supplements in treating eczema.
More Research Is Needed
Although it is not surprising that people living with severe eczema would turn to the dietary supplement zinc, and other alternative therapies, in an effort to find effective treatment, not all studies agree. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, "Researchers have looked at the effects of borage oil, evening primrose oil, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), vitamin E, and zinc... Most supplements had no effects." Instead of promoting alternative therapies, they generally encourage patients seeking eczema care to visit a board-certified dermatologist.
Standard Treatment
Standard treatment modalities for eczema include antibiotic therapy, Cyclosporin, corticosteroids, antihistamines, Interferon gamma, auto-immune modulators such as mycophenolate mofetil and topical calcineurin inhibitors. Other procedures, called physical procedures, used to treat acute eczema, include phototherapy/light therapy, application of cold compresses and special moisturizers. Even with all the treatments available today to treat eczema, some patients still opt to turn to alternative treatments, including dietary supplements, such as zinc.
Combining Standard and Alternative Therapies
Due to the severity and the persistence of eczema, it is not uncommon for patients to turn to alternative therapies, either in place of standard medical treatment or in combination with it. Despite the limited information available regarding efficacy of alternative therapies, including zinc, many continue to be used by some patients for conditions such as eczema.
Considerations
Although more studies are needed in this area, it is possible that eczema may be more effectively treated by including zinc dietary supplements to prevent zinc deficiency, as it may be a causative factor in eczema. The implication is that the use of zinc supplements may be important in preventing and healing the skin lesions and irritations associated with eczema.
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