Inflammatory skin diseases are often associated with mineral deficiencies
The skin requires a range of nutrients for growth and protection against local infections and injuries. Evidence suggests, however, that patients with inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic eczema, and patchy hair loss often have deficiencies in minerals like zinc, selenium, and iron. Elevated levels of copper, which should be balanced with zinc, have also been observed, and these findings are reported in a new meta-analysis published in Nutrition Reviews.
An increasing number of people suffer from autoimmune skin diseases, where an overactive immune system causes a variety of symptoms. In psoriasis, vitiligo, and hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa), overactive white T-cells drive the inflammatory processes. In psoriasis, skin cells are attacked, leading to redness and scaling. In vitiligo, pigment cells are attacked, causing loss of color. Hidradenitis suppurativa is characterized by painful abscesses and nodules, especially in the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
In atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis), higher levels of IgE antibodies against food or airborne allergens are common, and there is a risk of secondary skin infections with staphylococci. Patchy hair loss is caused by antibodies targeting hair follicles, leading to hair loss. In bullous diseases, antibodies lead to fluid-filled blisters on the skin.
As can be seen, the immune system can overreact in different ways, and there are many other autoimmune skin diseases.
Deficiencies in zinc, selenium, and iron, as well as excess copper, increase risk
It is well known that diet and lifestyle are important for skin health. Less is known about the role of minerals in the development of inflammatory skin diseases. A team of researchers examined this in detail in a systematic review and meta-analysis, investigating the associations between minerals such as zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and calcium and the development of psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic eczema, patchy hair loss, hidradenitis suppurativa, and bullous diseases. Using relevant search terms, the researchers collected a large number of studies from PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and other databases, published up to May 2024. The meta-analysis included 113 studies encompassing over 7,000 patients with inflammatory skin diseases. Compared with healthy control groups, the meta-analysis found:
- Patients with psoriasis, vitiligo, and patchy hair loss had lower zinc levels.
- Patients with psoriasis and atopic eczema had lower selenium and iron levels.
- Patients with psoriasis, atopic eczema, and patchy hair loss had higher copper levels.
The researchers conclude that patients with inflammatory skin diseases have an altered mineral profile compared with healthy controls. This suggests that a disrupted mineral balance may contribute to the development of autoimmune skin conditions.
It should also be noted that there needs to be a balance between copper and zinc, as excess copper inhibits zinc utilization. Although copper is essential, excessive intake can occur from sources such as drinking water (copper pipes), copper cookware, ceramics, and copper intrauterine devices.
Zinc and skin health – why deficiencies are common
Zinc is part of hundreds of proteins and enzymatic processes that affect overall health throughout life. With regard to skin health, zinc is important for new skin cell formation, collagen production, immune function, and effective wound healing. Zinc also acts as an important antioxidant, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.
Zinc is most easily absorbed from animal sources such as shellfish (especially oysters), meat, liver, eggs, and dairy products. Vegetarians, alcoholics, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and patients with diarrhea or gastrointestinal disorders are at risk of deficiency. Aging, diuretics, and excess copper can also interfere with zinc absorption and utilization.
Selenium and skin health – why deficiencies are common
Selenium is part of around 25-30 selenoproteins, which are important for skin structure and health. Selenium plays a key role in the immune system, protecting the skin against local infections. It is also part of powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.
Since European soils are low in selenium, the entire food chain is affected. Additionally, reduced intake of fish and organ meats contributes to the widespread selenium deficiency problem.
Iron and skin health – why deficiencies are common
Iron is a component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to all cells. Iron deficiency can therefore cause fatigue and multiple symptoms, including pale, dry, and itchy skin. Iron is also important for immune function, protecting against local infections.
Iron from animal sources (heme iron) is most easily absorbed, so a plant-based diet increases the risk of deficiency. Heavy menstrual bleeding or other types of blood loss can also increase the risk. Low stomach acid, vitamin C deficiency, antacids, and excessive calcium from dairy or supplements can impair iron absorption.
Iron supplements should only be taken if there is a proven deficiency, as excess iron can contribute to harmful free radical formation.
Vitamins and skin health
In the following article, you can read more about the importance of various vitamins for skin health and how vitamin deficiencies may also contribute to skin diseases.
»The regulatory effects of vitamins in skincare and skin diseases«
References:
Xinyi et al. Traceelements and Risk of Immune-Mediated Skin Disease: A systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Zubaidah Al-Khafaji et al. Zinc and Zinc Transporters in Dermatology. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022
Jun LV et al. Selenium levels and skin diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022
Aleksandra Podgórska et al. Zinc, Cobber, and Iron in Selected Skin Diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2024
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