Zinc and Zinc Pyrithione (ZnP)

Information about zinc in relation to the causes and treatment of psoriasis.

Zinc in several forms has been claimed to be of use in treating psoriasis by many, many people. Some of them sell “zinc cure” pamphlets which simply tell you to take massive (and possibly dangerous) amounts of zinc in supplements. Others claim that zinc pyrithione (ZnP), the active ingredient in dandruff shampoos, is a miracle substance, even though no product that only uses ZnP is approved for use in psoriasis (due to a lack of efficacy).

Zinc supplements may actually cause suppression of the immune system, which can lead to a reduction in psoriasis symptoms. It’s certainly no cure, and the amounts of zinc that are suggested can lead to other, more serious problems. A full description of these “zinc regimens” is available in the following reviews, so nobody reading this should have to pay for a booklet. And the side effects of zinc overdose will also be discussed, which is something that is often lacking from those who suggest this treatment.

Reviewed Treatments and Information

Deluxlife

Skincure™

Skin-Cap (and clones)

Unreviewed Treatments and Information

Champdogs Forum Message (December 5, 2002)

Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Shampoo Plus Conditioner

DHS Zinc Shampoo

Head & Shoulders Intensive Solutions Shampoo

Marga (Ross Gambril) (see also Even More Flakiness)

Symmetry’s Zinc Info