Key takeaways

  • Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may alleviate eczema symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory properties. They potentially suppress immune cell activity that triggers eczema.
  • Vitamins D and E could help reduce eczema symptoms. Vitamin D may reduce inflammation, while vitamin E protects against oxidative stress and improves overall skin health.
  • Zinc, an essential mineral, may improve inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, especially for those with a deficiency. Melatonin, known as a sleep supplement, might also act as an antioxidant to reduce inflammation and eczema severity.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common condition that affects between 7.2 and 10.2% of people in the United States, based on several prevalence studies.

Here are six supplements that may help reduce symptoms of eczema.

The following supplements may have a positive effect on eczema symptoms when taken as part of a balanced diet. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for eczema.

1. Fish oil

Fish oil helps boost your intake of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which may support skin health due to their powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

There is some evidence that these fatty acids can suppress the activity of immune cells that trigger eczema.

While research results have been mixed, some studies have found a link between omega-3 supplements and slight improvements in eczema symptom presentation.

Summary

Although more research is needed, some animal and human studies suggest that fish oil may be beneficial for treating eczema.

2. Vitamin D

Your skin produces vitamin D when exposed to the sun. Vitamin D is also found naturally in several foods and is widely available as a supplement.

Further research is necessary to fully assess the role of vitamin D supplementation in managing eczema, but some studies suggest tentative benefits.

For example, a number of studies included in a 2018 review found that lower vitamin D levels were associated with increased eczema severity in children. It also found that supplementing with vitamin D improved eczema symptoms in about two-thirds of the studies.

Summary

Multiple studies suggest that supplementing with vitamin D may reduce inflammation and symptoms of eczema.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an essential micronutrient in various skin care products.

In addition to its ability to protect the skin against oxidative stress, some studies have found that it may help decrease symptoms of eczema. A 2021 review has also concluded that a daily dosage of up to 600 IU of vitamin E is considered safe and may benefit skin health.

Summary

Supplementing with vitamin E may help improve skin health and decrease symptoms of eczema.

4. Zinc

Zinc is an important mineral that plays a key role in skin health. Several studies suggest it may help treat inflammatory skin conditions, including acne and eczema.

One review of 16 studies also associated low zinc levels with a higher chance of eczema.

Keep in mind that zinc is found in many food sources, including meat, seafood, dairy, and legumes, and most people can meet their needs by following a healthy, well-rounded diet.

However, if you think you might have a deficiency, talk with a doctor to see whether supplementation may be beneficial.

Summary

Some studies show that supplementing with zinc may help reduce eczema severity, especially if you have a deficiency.

5. Melatonin

Although melatonin is best known as a sleep supplement, it may also help treat eczema.

Research shows that melatonin may act as an antioxidant, reduce levels of specific inflammation markers, and inhibit eczema development.

One study included 48 children. Taking 3 mg of melatonin daily for 4 weeks improved sleep quality and reduced eczema severity.

However, further studies are needed, especially in adults.

Summary

Melatonin may act as an antioxidant and reduce levels of inflammation. Some research suggests that it may decrease eczema severity in children, but more studies are needed.

6. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria associated with numerous health benefits. Although research has found mixed results, some studies suggest that probiotics may help reduce symptoms of eczema.

For instance, one study showed that infants who received probiotics were less likely to develop eczema than those in a control group.

On the other hand, one review of 39 studies concluded that probiotics didn’t significantly affect symptoms or quality of life in people with eczema.

Therefore, more research is needed to determine whether probiotics are beneficial for treating eczema.

summary

Some studies show that probiotics may help treat and prevent eczema, but research is conflicting.

According to a meta-analysis of 10 studies, vitamin D3 had the most evidence for helping reduce eczema treatment, as well as the largest sample size. Vitamin D3 is a form of vitamin D along with vitamin D2.

There is some evidence showing an association between normal levels of vitamin D and reduced eczema symptoms in children. However, study findings have been mixed, and more research is necessary.

It isn’t possible to cure eczema naturally, but some remedies can help. These include:

  • oils such as coconut and sunflower
  • probiotics
  • colloidal oatmeal

However, it is important to note that evidence around home remedies, such as probiotics, is mixed.

Eczema can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but many supplements may help ease your symptoms.

Remember that many nutrients can also be obtained from food sources by following a healthy, well-rounded diet.

Also, be sure to talk with a doctor before using supplements to determine the best course of treatment.

Just one thing

Try this today: Besides using supplements, switching up your diet may help treat or prevent eczema. Check out this article for a detailed guide of which foods you should include in a healthy diet for eczema.