Yet another way to support your eczema treatment? Supplements. From vitamins to essential fatty acids and probiotics, these nutrients can help improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and support your immune system. In this article, we’ll explain what these supplements are, how they might help with eczema, and offer a quick guide to some of the most popular options.
What Are Supplements?
Supplements are products you take, usually by mouth, to add nutrients to your diet. They come in many forms, such as capsules, tablets, oils, or powders. For people with eczema, supplements may help address underlying issues like inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or imbalances in the body that could affect your skin’s barrier.
How Can Supplements Help Manage Eczema?
Eczema is a complex condition where a weakened skin barrier and an overactive immune system both play roles. Some supplements may help by:
- Reducing Inflammation: Certain vitamins and fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
- Supporting the Skin Barrier: Nutrients like Vitamin D3 and essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) may aid in maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
- Boosting Immune Function: Probiotics and some vitamins can help balance your immune response, which is often overactive in eczema.
- Improving Overall Skin Health: A well-rounded nutritional approach can contribute to better skin repair and hydration.
It’s important to remember that while supplements can be helpful, they’re usually best used as part of a broader treatment plan that includes good skin care and medications when needed. That said, I’ve heard from many patients whose eczema has vanished once they started on probiotics, Vitamin D, or Omega-3.
What Are Some Popular Supplements for Eczema?
Below is a table that summarizes some popular supplements for eczema, their common forms, and potential benefits:
| Supplement | Common Forms | Potential Benefits | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D3 | Capsules, softgels, liquid drops | Supports immune balance and skin barrier function; may reduce inflammation | Recommended daily dose is 600 IU (international units) for most people. 4000 IU is considered the safe upper limit, but some people with Vitamin D deficiency may need higher doses temporarily. Testing levels can help guide dosing. |
| Vitamin B12 | Tablets, lozenges, creams, oils | May help reduce inflammation and improve skin healing | Evidence is still emerging; some find topical formulations especially helpful. |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Fish oil capsules, algae oil | Anti-inflammatory properties; supports cell membrane health | Often paired with Omega-6 for balance; quality and source matter. |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | Evening primrose oil, borage oil | Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that may help reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier | Balance with Omega-3 is important; check with your provider for proper ratio. |
| Probiotics | Capsules, powders, fermented foods | Promotes a healthy gut microbiome and may help modulate immune responses | Strain selection is key; some studies suggest benefits in reducing eczema severity. |
Using Supplements Safely
While supplements can offer additional support, they should be used wisely. Consult your provider before major changes, especially if you’re already taking medications. Choose high-quality products from reputable brands - it’s worth digging into reviews and the research (sign up to get notified once our guide to the best brands for eczema is available). As with any treatment, it’s always a good idea to keep track of how your skin and overall health respond. For one, you want to adjust dosages as needed. And two, you don’t want to spend money on stuff that doesn’t work for you.
In Summary
Supplements like Vitamin D3, Vitamin B12, Omega-3, Omega-6, and probiotics offer promising support for managing eczema by reducing inflammation, supporting your skin barrier, and balancing your immune system. While they’re not a cure-all, these nutrients can be an important part of your overall eczema management strategy. If you’re considering adding supplements to your routine, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you choose the right ones for your needs.