Eczema / Atopic Dermatitis
Chronic inflammatory skin condition (itching, redness, dryness). Indication for Omega-3, Vitamin D, probiotics, zinc, quercetin. High doses of niacin can worsen symptoms.
- What may help
- 16
- What to avoid
- 8
What may help (16)
- Chamomile Supplements HighClinical
Chamomile cream helps alleviate the itching and inflammation associated with eczema, promoting skin comfort and healing.
- Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Supplements HighClinical
When applied topically, PEA helps soothe irritated skin, reduce itching, and calm the inflammatory response common in conditions like eczema.
- Astaxanthin Supplements MediumClinical
Astaxanthin's anti-inflammatory benefits can help soothe skin conditions like eczema by reducing redness and irritation.
- Eat Whole Foods Habits MediumClinical
By providing anti-inflammatory compounds (e.g., omega-3s, antioxidants) and supporting gut health, a whole-food diet can help manage eczema symptoms. It reduces systemic inflammation and avoids common dietary triggers often found in processed foods, contributing to improved skin barrier function and reduced flare-ups.
- Evening Primrose Oil Supplements MediumClinical
Applied topically, this oil can directly soothe irritated skin, improve skin barrier function, and reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
- Omega-3 Supplements MediumClinical
By modulating inflammatory processes in the skin, Omega-3 supplements can help alleviate the redness, itching, and dryness commonly experienced with eczema.
- Pycnogenol Supplements MediumClinical
Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can help calm the skin's immune response, offering relief from the discomfort and itching of eczema.
- Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Supplements MediumClinical
For eczema, topical SOD can soothe irritated skin by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation at the affected areas.
- Reducing Sugar and Processed Foods Practices LowClinical
Limiting refined sugars and processed foods can help mitigate inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema by reducing systemic inflammation and supporting gut health, which are often implicated in skin flares.
- Quercetin Supplements LowAnimal research
Early research suggests this bioavailable quercetin may help alleviate symptoms of eczema by calming skin inflammation and modulating immune reactions, contributing to healthier skin.
- Naturopathy Practices HighTheoretical
Naturopathic interventions for eczema target inflammation and skin barrier function. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics, zinc, and quercetin show strong evidence in reducing eczema severity and improving skin integrity by modulating immune responses and reducing inflammatory mediators.
- Omega-6 Supplements HighTheoretical
GLA helps soothe inflamed skin and improve its barrier function, potentially reducing symptoms like itching and redness associated with eczema.
- Probiotics Supplements HighTheoretical
Probiotics can support a balanced immune response and improve skin barrier function, often reducing the severity and incidence of eczema, particularly in infants and young children.
- Consume Probiotics Habits MediumTheoretical
Prenatal or early postnatal probiotic supplementation, primarily with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Bifidobacterium lactis, has shown moderate efficacy in preventing atopic dermatitis (eczema) in high-risk infants. This benefit is linked to the modulation of the developing immune system and establishment of a healthy gut microbiome.
- Elimination Diet Practices MediumTheoretical
For individuals, particularly children, with eczema or atopic dermatitis, an elimination diet can be beneficial in identifying and removing food triggers. By reducing exposure to specific allergens or sensitizing foods, this approach helps to alleviate skin inflammation, itching, and improve the overall condition of the skin.
- Integral Yoga Practices LowPeople reports
While not a direct treatment, Integral Yoga may minimally support eczema management by reducing stress, a known trigger for flare-ups, and potentially modulating inflammatory pathways, though specific evidence is limited.
What to avoid (8)
- Cupping Therapy Practices HighClinical
Do not apply cupping to areas with active eczema, as it can severely irritate the skin, cause blistering, and increase the risk of infection.
- Dry Brushing Habits HighClinical
Do not dry brush on areas affected by active inflammatory skin conditions such as severe eczema, psoriasis, or acne. It can worsen irritation, trigger flares, or spread infection.
- Scalp Massage Practices HighClinical
If you have an active flare-up of eczema or severe psoriasis on your scalp, massage can worsen irritation, itching, or risk infection.
- Thai Massage Practices HighClinical
Avoid direct massage on areas with active eczema flare-ups, as it can cause irritation, itching, or skin damage.
- Professional Art Therapy Practices MediumClinical
Direct skin contact with various art materials (e.g., paints, clays, glues) can trigger or worsen eczema and other skin irritations in susceptible individuals. Use gloves or alternative materials as needed and inform your therapist about skin sensitivities.
- Stress Monitoring (EDA) Practices MediumClinical
Avoid placing electrodes directly on skin areas with active eczema flares. This can worsen the inflammation, cause significant discomfort, or increase the risk of skin infection.
- Warm Foot Soak Practices MediumClinical
If you have active eczema on your feet, warm water can dry out your skin and worsen irritation or flare-ups. Use lukewarm water and a gentle moisturizer immediately after.
- Vitamin B3 Supplements LowPeople reports
If you suffer from eczema, high doses of nicotinic acid (niacin) may worsen skin irritation and itching due to the 'niacin flush'.