Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes red, scaly patches to form on the body. While it’s mainly linked to immune system problems, certain vitamin deficiencies and low levels of nutrients can make symptoms worse or harder to manage. These deficiencies may also make the skin barrier weaker, leaving it more prone to irritation and cracked and broken skin.
Some people with psoriasis may notice problems such as dry, cracked skin or cracked heels, as well as poor wound healing, especially in the winter or after using harsh chemicals. These symptoms may not be caused by the psoriasis itself, but rather by a lack of essential nutrients that help the skin hydrate, repair, and defend itself.
The most common deficiencies that can cause psoriasis or make it worse include:
- Vitamin A – Supports epithelial cell growth and collagen production
- Vitamin C – Essential for collagen production
- Vitamin D – supports immune balance and skin health
- Essential fatty acids – keep skin soft and protect the barrier
- Zinc – aids in healing and reduces inflammation.
Understanding how these nutrients work and recognizing the symptoms of deficiency can help people take steps toward improving both their overall health and their skin condition.
About nutrient deficiencies and psoriasis 
Some nutrient deficiencies may not directly cause psoriasis, but they can exacerbate flare-ups or slow recovery. A healthy body needs the right mix of vitamins, minerals, and fats to keep the skin soft, flexible, and protected. When certain nutrients are missing, the result may include cracked skin, itching, or poor wound healing.
People with psoriasis may also struggle with dry, flaky skin around the elbows, knees, or scalp. This can look similar to athlete’s foot, eczema, or atopic dermatitis, but psoriasis is different. It comes from an overactive immune response that causes skin cells to build up too fast.
At the same time, missing key nutrients like fatty acids or zinc may increase the risk of getting a fungal infection, since a damaged skin barrier can make it easier for germs to get in. Some treatments for psoriasis can also make the skin thinner or more sensitive, which may make the impact of any deficiency even more noticeable.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease where the immune system tells the body to make skin cells too quickly. These extra cells pile up, creating patches of thick, dry, and scaly skin.
- The patches often appear on the elbows, knees, back, hand, feet or scalp
- It can run in families and is not contagious
- There are different types, but the most common is plaque psoriasis
- Flare-ups may be triggered by infections, stress, or harsh chemicals.
Although there’s no cure, treatments and lifestyle changes can help control it.
What are the signs and symptoms of psoriasis?
The main symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Raised, red areas covered with white or silver scales
- Cracked and broken skin that may bleed or sting
- Itching, burning, or soreness in the affected areas
- Dry cracked skin resembling athlete’s foot, especially in winter or in people with low humidity exposure
- Nail changes like pitting, ridges, or loosening from the nail bed.
These symptoms can be mild or severe, and they often come and go. People with diabetes may also have a harder time keeping their skin hydrated and protecting against infection.
About treating cracked and broken skin in psoriasis
There are two approaches to dealing with the skin problems that are caused by psoriasis. On the one hand, since the condition has no single cause and is not curable, one approach is to lessen the symptoms and discomfort, and this usually involves some prescription medication that will be recommended by a doctor or dermatologist. On the other hand, it is also possible that there are some underlying issues that are triggering flare-ups and persistence of the symptoms, such as deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals in the diet. We explore each of these in the next sections.
What FDA-approved medications for psoriasis are available?
The types of medications often prescribed for cracked and broken psoriasis lesions include the following, keeping in mind that some are topical (applied to the skin) while others are systemic (affecting the whole body):
Topical treatments (applied to the skin)
- Corticosteroids: Topisalen and Elocon are often prescribed when first line of defense for psoriasis isn’t working because they quickly reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. They come in various strengths, so a doctor can prescribe a mild one for sensitive areas like the face or skin folds, or a stronger one for more resilient areas. However, it’s important to use strong corticosteroids for short periods only to avoid skin thinning.
- Vitamin D analogs: Synthetic forms of vitamin D, like calcipotriene (Dovonex) and calcitriol (Dovobet), can slow down the overgrowth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. They can be used alone or combined with topical corticosteroids.
- Tazarotene (Tazorac): A topical retinoid that can help thin out psoriasis plaques. However, it may cause skin irritation and increase sun sensitivity.
- Salicylic acid: This ingredient is effective in removing scales and softening thick plaques, allowing other medications to penetrate the skin more effectively. It’s available in over-the-counter products and prescription-strength options.
- Moisturizers: Keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial to prevent further cracking and promote healing. Thicker creams and ointments like Axera are generally more effective than lotions for very dry skin.
Systemic treatments (affecting the whole body)
- Biologics: These are medications that target specific parts of the immune system that contribute to psoriasis development. They are often prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis that hasn’t responded to topical treatments or phototherapy. Some examples include:
- Other oral medications: These may be used for severe psoriasis and include:
It’s important to work closely with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you and to ensure you’re using any medications as directed.
How do current prescription treatments help psoriasis?
Current treatments help by:
- Slowing down the rapid skin cell production
- Reducing inflammation and redness
- Helping the skin feel less dry or irritated
- Easing symptoms like itching and cracked skin.
Moisturizers and ointments help lock in moisture and support healing. Some creams are especially useful for cracked heels and thick plaques.
Home remedy options for psoriasis
Some doctors recommend approaches to support skin health without prescribing, including:
| Name | Format | Action | Examples |
| Vitamin A (retinol) | Cream/Food | Supports epithelial cell growth and collagen production, both crucial for wound closure and tissue regeneration. | Renova topical cream, Animal-based foods like liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products are rich in preformed vitamin A (retinol). Plant-based foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and other orange and yellow fruits and vegetables |
| Vitamin C | Tablet/Food | Essential for collagen production, which helps rebuild damaged tissue and strengthen new skin. | Vitamin C, citrus fruits |
| Vitamin D | Tablet/Food | Contributes to maintaining the integrity and functionality of the skin barrier, which is crucial for preventing moisture loss. | Phyllotex, fatty fish (like salmon, tuna, and mackerel), fish liver oils, egg yolks, beef liver, and certain types of mushrooms. |
| PUFAs | Supplement/Food | contains anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), necessary for cell-wall strength and permeability. | Zoomind, sardines, salmon, and tuna, fish liver oils. |
| Zinc | Ointment | Supports immune function, tissue growth, and cell production for wound closure. | Inotyol, oysters, beef, pork, chicken, lamb, eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds |
| Collagen | Food | Responsible for the skin’s integrity and helps lock in moisture. | Chicken broth |
| Probiotics | Supplement/Food | Live bacterial cultures that can enhance skin’s ability to repair itself and manage inflammatory skin conditions. | Flora Q2, fermented milk products (yogurt and kefir), fermented vegetables (sauerkraut and kimchi) |
These are not officially approved treatments, but early studies suggest they may help some people.
Conclusion
While psoriasis is mostly driven by the immune system, missing nutrients can make the condition worse or harder to manage. A vitamin deficiency, especially in vitamin D, vitamin B12, or fatty acids, may weaken the skin barrier, increase inflammation, or slow down wound healing.
People with cracked heels, persistent dry cracked skin, or signs of irritated skin may be showing early signs of a deficiency, especially if symptoms don’t improve with regular treatment. Those with other conditions like diabetes may be more likely to have these problems.
The main treatments for psoriasis aim to slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. However, supporting the skin with the right nutrients—either through food or supplements—can also make a difference. Products with petroleum jelly or mineral oil help lock in moisture, but the skin may not fully heal if it lacks the internal nutrients it needs.
Understanding how diet, supplements, and proper skincare work together may help people manage their psoriasis more effectively. While nutrient imbalances are not the main cause of the disease, correcting them can help improve comfort and quality of life.
Frequently asked questions about psoriasis and cracked skin
What vitamin deficiency causes cracked skin?
The most common vitamin deficiency linked to cracked skin is vitamin B2 (riboflavin), but low levels of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids can also play a role. These nutrients help the skin hold moisture, heal wounds, and protect against irritation. When missing, the skin may dry out and crack, especially around the mouth, hands, or feet.
What does psoriasis look like on the bottom of the feet?
Psoriasis on the heels looks like patches of itchy, scaly and discolored skin, which is called a plaque. These changes often appear along with skin symptoms like dry cracked skin or irritation. If they’re noticed early, they may improve with proper treatment including changes in diet and dietary supplements.
Is there a disease that makes your skin crack?
Yes. Several diseases can cause cracked skin, including psoriasis, eczema (atopic dermatitis), and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Conditions like diabetes also make the skin more prone to cracking due to poor circulation and dryness. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies may make the cracking worse or slower to heal.
What is the biggest trigger for psoriasis?
The most common triggers include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Skin injuries or infections
- Certain medications
- Cold, dry weather
- Use of harsh chemicals or irritating soaps.
These triggers don’t cause psoriasis, but they can spark a flare-up or make existing symptoms worse.
