Supplements may interact with other medications or cause adverse effects, so it’s important to talk with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.
This article takes a closer look at supplements and food sources that may help manage the symptoms of eczema. It also looks at dosages, potential side effects, and how these supplements could work to alleviate eczema symptoms.
Fish oil contains the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which can combat inflammation in several ways. For example, they inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules that play a role in eczema.
Essential fatty acids are also integrated into cell membranes and are essential for their function. If a cell membrane is not healthy, the cell is unable to hold water, which can lead to dry skin.
There is currently no consensus on fish oil dosage recommendations for eczema, and dosages shown to be effective in studies are varied.
For example, an older study found that 5,400 mg of DHA daily for 8 weeks led to improved eczema symptoms and inhibition of IgE antibodies, which play a role in the body’s immune system response to allergens.
Getting omega-3 fatty acids from food sources may also benefit eczema. Research from 2019 reported that consumption of fish at least once a week at 1 year of age was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of eczema at 6 years of age.
Fish oil is known to have a blood-thinning effect. If you are taking anticoagulants, talk with your doctor before taking fish oil or a high dose.
Learn more about possible fish oil side effects.
Some research suggests that vitamin D may help treat eczema.
A meta-analysis of four studies found that vitamin D supplements were more effective at reducing the severity of eczema symptoms than a placebo.
Another review of 21 studies reported an association between lower vitamin D levels with increased severity of eczema in children.
The review also found that supplementing with vitamin D improved symptoms of eczema in about two-thirds of the studies. However, the authors acknowledged the need for more studies in the future.
It is important to note that there may be a risk for vitamin D toxicity. Consuming too much vitamin D for long periods can lead to a buildup of calcium in your urine, nausea, and vomiting.
Read 8 health dangers of low vitamin D levels.
Zinc plays a critical role in skin health and may also benefit eczema.
Although more research is necessary, several studies have shown that zinc may be effective in the treatment of certain inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema.
A meta-analysis of 16 studies found a slight correlation between low levels of zinc with an increased risk of eczema. Similarly, another study reported that children with severe eczema had an increased likelihood of being deficient in zinc.
Zinc is found in a variety of food sources, such as meat and seafood. However, talk with your doctor if you suspect you may have a zinc deficiency to discuss whether supplementation would benefit you.
Learn more about zinc poisoning.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that play an important role in immunity and overall health. Because the microbiome is altered in eczema, probiotics may help restore its balance.
Some research suggests that probiotics may help reduce symptoms of eczema. They can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin.
A 2022 meta-analysis of 21 studies found that the infants of people who consumed oral probiotics during pregnancy and early infancy had a lower risk of eczema compared to the control groups.
Also, a 2019 randomized controlled trial found that infants who received a probiotic daily mixture of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis for 6 months had a lower incidence of eczema compared to the control groups.
However, study results are mixed. A 2018 review of 39 randomized controlled trials reported that no significant difference was observed in those who took probiotics supplements versus those who did not. Therefore, more research is needed.
Learn more about whether probiotics can ease eczema.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin.
A trial from 2015 found that those who orally took 400 international units (IUs) of vitamin E daily over a 3-month period had clinically significant improvements in their eczema symptoms.
Also, a 2021 review summarizing the evidence from clinical, cell culture, and animal studies reported that vitamin E may be effective as an additional treatment for people with eczema. However, the authors concluded that more research is needed to determine the specific effects.
Vitamin E can have a blood-thinning effect. If you are taking anticoagulant medication, talk with your doctor before taking vitamin E supplements.
Diet plays an important role in our overall health, including skin health. While there is no single diet for eczema, certain foods may trigger flare-ups in different people.
Research suggests that many people who have eczema also have food allergies. Some common food allergies include:
- peanuts
- soy products
- tree nuts
- wheat
- shellfish
- cow’s milk
- eggs
You may wish to try eliminating your intake of some of these possible triggers to see if your symptoms improve. Talk with your doctor about trying an elimination diet.
Eczema is an inflammatory condition, so focusing on consuming foods that reduce inflammation may help with managing flare-ups. Different foods affect people differently, but an anti-inflammatory diet may include:
- fruits
- vegetables
- foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Learn more about diet tips for managing eczema.
Jerlyn Jones, M.S., M.P.A., R.D.N., L.D., C.L.T., reviewed the answers to these common questions about vitamins and supplements for eczema.
What is the best vitamin for eczema?
There is no consensus on a single best vitamin for eczema. However, certain vitamins and nutrients may help manage the symptoms, such as fish oil, zinc, and probiotics.
What vitamin is lacking when you have eczema?
You could be deficient in any number of nutrients if you have eczema. Many different vitamins influence skin health, inflammation, and immunity. If you think you may have a vitamin deficiency, contact your doctor.
What gets rid of eczema naturally?
Nothing has been established to get rid of eczema completely, but certain supplements in addition to dietary modifications may help manage symptoms.
Some research suggests that certain supplements, such as vitamin D, fish oil, and zinc, may benefit people with eczema. However, results are conflicting and more research is needed to establish potential benefits and clinical guidelines.
Check with your doctor to determine if any supplements or dietary modifications are right for you. They can also recommend a specific dosage based on your individual needs.