Collagen Supplements: A Natural Way to Improve Eczema

The Potential Benefits of Collagen for Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It affects over 30 million Americans, making it one of the most prevalent chronic skin diseases. While there is no known cure for eczema, certain lifestyle changes and natural remedies may help manage symptoms. In recent years, collagen has gained attention as a potential supplement to benefit eczema. Here's a closer look at the research behind collagen and eczema.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up 75-80% of our skin. It provides structure and strength by forming connective fibers that hold tissues together. Collagen also helps maintain skin elasticity and replaces dead skin cells. Our natural collagen production declines with age, leading to common signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint pain. Collagen supplements have surged in popularity as a way to counteract these effects.

The Role of Collagen in Eczema

Eczema patients often have impaired skin barrier function, meaning their skin struggles to retain moisture and keep irritants out. This deficiency allows environmental triggers to penetrate the skin and kickstart inflammation, flare-ups, and itchiness. Research shows that collagen is vital for proper skin barrier function. It not only provides structural proteins but also enhances the skin's natural moisture. With age, collagen depletion contributes to a weaker barrier in those predisposed to eczema.

Early studies suggest supplemental collagen may help strengthen the skin barrier in eczema patients. A small 2014 study had women with mild to moderate eczema take a daily oral collagen supplement for 8 weeks. The collagen group showed significant improvements in skin hydration, collagen density, and transepidermal water loss compared to placebo. Researchers believe boosting moisture retention may calm inflammation and provide eczema relief.

Other Potential Eczema Benefits

In addition to supporting the skin barrier, emerging research points to other ways collagen could aid eczema:

• Reducing inflammation - Collagen contains amino acids like glycine and proline. Animal studies found these amino acids have anti-inflammatory properties and protect against inflammatory cytokines.
• Healing wounds - Collagen production ramps up during the wound healing process. Supplements may help repair damaged skin tissue from scratches and eczema lesions.
• Improving skin elasticity - Loss of elasticity exacerbates eczema and makes skin more prone to cracking. Collagen helps reinforce elastic fibers.
• Providing antioxidants - Collagen is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, zinc, and copper. Antioxidants help control free radical damage linked to eczema flares.

Best Sources of Collagen

The body can produce its own collagen, but supplements and collagen-rich foods are ways to get more of this vital protein. Here are top sources to consider:

Collagen Powders

Collagen powders have become popular nutritional supplements. They usually contain hydrolyzed collagen peptides sourced from cows, fish, eggshells or chicken. Look for a grass-fed, pasture-raised source. Collagen peptides are easily digested and absorbed. Plain collagen powders can be blended into smoothies, water, coffee, etc. They're flavorless so you can add them to anything. Some brands also offer convenient flavored collagen beverages.

Bone Broth

Bone broth is collagen-rich stock made by boiling animal bones and connective tissue. This traditional food is enjoying a major revival for its nutrition and healing properties. The long cooking time extracts collagen along with amino acids, minerals and antioxidants. Homemade bone broth using organic bones is ideal. You can also find quality premade options.

Eggs

Pasture-raised eggs provide an excellent source of collagen and protein. Look for Omega-3 enriched eggs from hens fed a diet of insects and plants. The yolks in particular contain collagen-boosting nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, selenium and sulfur. Eggs are a versatile food to add to your diet.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit and lemon are loaded with vitamin C. This key nutrient is required for collagen production. Getting enough vitamin C also preserves and recycles collagen in the body. Fresh squeezed orange juice or whole citrus fruits are great options.

Berries

Berries deliver a powerhouse of antioxidants, including vitamin C. Berries fight inflammation and free radical damage that can aggravate eczema. They support collagen formation as part of creating healthy new skin cells. Enjoy fresh or frozen organic strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries.

Garlic

Garlic contains key sulfur compounds that help form collagen fibers. It also boosts antioxidant levels to combat skin inflammation and damage. Add crushed garlic cloves to soups, stews, dressings and meat dishes for a collagen and immune boost.

Dark Green Veggies

Leafy greens like kale, spinach and broccoli are loaded with vitamins and minerals that promote collagen production and skin health. These include vitamin C, zinc, copper and iron. Dark greens are easy to add a salad, smoothie or side dish at meals.

Other Natural Remedies for Eczema

While more research on collagen and eczema is still needed, it looks promising as part of an integrative approach. You can partner collagen with other complementary remedies to soothe eczema flare-ups:

• Colloidal oatmeal - Soothing baths with colloidal or finely ground oatmeal help relieve itchy skin.
• Coconut oil - This moisturizing oil packed with fatty acids and vitamin E softens skin and improves the moisture barrier.
• Aloe vera - The cooling gel from aloe plants calms inflamed skin and provides quick relief from itching.
• Probiotics - Supplements support healthy gut bacteria tied to immune regulation. Look for multi-strain formulas.
• Omega-3s - Fatty acids like EPA and DHA fight inflammation and irritation. Get omega-3s from fish oil, walnuts or supplements.
• Diffusing essential oils - Soothing oils like chamomile, lavender and tea tree oil provide scent-based therapy.

Lifestyle Changes To Improve Eczema

While supplements like collagen, diet, and natural therapies help manage eczema from within, it's also key to reduce triggers in your lifestyle and environment. Try these healthy changes to improve overall skin health:

Avoid Irritants

Eczema patients have sensitive skin prone to irritation. Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and household cleaners which contain chemicals that sting and dry out the skin. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free skin care products. Watch out for scratchy fabrics like wool against your skin as well. Pay attention to what seems to worsen your eczema, and try to minimize contact.

Moisturize Frequently

Hydrating the skin is one of the most vital ways to treat eczema. Use thicker ointments or creams rather than lotions, which absorb better into dry, cracked skin. Apply moisturizer at least twice a day, even when your skin looks clear. Ointments containing petroleum jelly or ceramides help seal in moisture. You may need to moisturize more often after bathing or hand washing to replenish hydration.

Take Lukewarm Baths

Hot showers or baths feel great, but the heat can irritate eczema prone skin. Limit baths to once a day or less, and stick to lukewarm water instead. Keep sessions brief, about 5-10 minutes. Make sure to moisturize immediately after to seal in moisture. Add a capful of gentle bath oil or colloidal oatmeal to soothe as you soak.

Watch For Signs of Infection

Eczema lesions that oo

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.