Dermatoses: The Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Dermatoses encompass a set of skin diseases of various origins, affecting the epidermis, dermis, and sometimes even the hypodermis. These conditions can manifest as irritations, redness, itching, scaling, or more complex lesions. Dermatoses include well-known conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, acne, and atopic dermatitis. Symptoms vary from one dermatosis to another but may include:  Redness, inflammation, and swelling  Scaling or flaking  Intense itching and pain  Skin rashes  Extreme dryness or formation of thick plaques, especially in cases like psoriasis

Causes

The causes of dermatoses are numerous and include:  Genetic factors: Some dermatoses, such as psoriasis, have a hereditary component.  Allergic reactions: Contact dermatitis often occurs in reaction to chemicals, metals, or other irritants.  Skin microbiome imbalances: An imbalance between the skin's natural bacteria and yeasts can promote infections and inflammations.  Autoimmune diseases: In dermatoses like psoriasis and lupus, the immune system mistakenly identifies skin cells as foreign agents. This triggers an intense inflammatory response leading to symptoms such as red plaques, scaling, or skin rashes.  Stress and anxiety: These factors can worsen skin conditions due to their impact on the immune system and cortisol, a stress hormone.  Diet: A diet rich in sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods can contribute to overall inflammation, potentially worsening dermatoses like acne and eczema.

Treatments

Treatments for dermatoses vary depending on the condition and its severity. They may include:  Topical corticosteroids: Effective in reducing inflammation and itching.  Antibiotics or antifungals: For associated bacterial or fungal infections.  Immunosuppressants: Used for severe cases of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.  Essential oils: Tea tree and lavender have antibacterial and soothing properties. They are particularly useful for mild skin infections.  Plant extracts: Aloe vera, calendula, and chamomile are known for their soothing effects on the skin. Borage oil and evening primrose oil are rich in essential fatty acids, which help maintain the skin's hydration and suppleness.

Prevention

A preventive approach can often reduce the incidence or severity of dermatoses:  Avoid harsh soaps and opt for natural skincare products without allergens or irritants.  Choose an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, oily fish, and avoid foods high in sugars and saturated fats.  Taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus can have a protective effect against certain skin inflammations.  Since stress is an aggravating factor, it is advised to practice relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation. The use of adaptogenic plants, available in the form of dietary supplements or herbal teas, can also help the body better manage stress and its effects on the skin.