Emerging treatments
Polypodium leucotomos extract
P leucotomos extract is an oral dietary supplement with antioxidant properties that helps maintain the skin's ability to protect against ultraviolet radiation-induced oxidative stress. By modulating the release of free radicals and the cutaneous immune system, the manifestation of PLE might be avoided. Has effects on skin metabolism, but studies are ongoing to determine clinical effectiveness. It has been shown to be well tolerated.[61] P leucotomos extract is not approved by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is approved for sun protection. Recommended to be used in combination with high-SPF topical sunscreens. If intense sunlight exposure is expected during the day, one additional capsule should be taken at noon.
Nutritional supplements
Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids has showed some improvement of the severity of PLE symptoms.[62] One study has shown that a nutritional supplement containing lycopene, beta-carotene, and Lactobacillus johnsonii reduces the symptoms of PLE after one exposure to sunlight, possibly by reducing the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) mRNA.[63]
Azathioprine
In especially severe cases of PLE, immunosuppressive treatments with azathioprine might be considered by a specialist.[64]
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