Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Supplements studied for eczema (atopic dermatitis).
Overview
Topical Coconut Oil (WA 56; medium effect size, low evidence, medium trust) improved symptoms and skin health versus mineral oil over eight weeks in children with eczema. Probiotics (WA 36; very low effect size, medium evidence, medium trust) are possibly effective per limited evidence.
Fish Oil (WA 44; very low effect size, very high evidence, medium trust; 11 studies), Borage (WA 40; very low effect size, high evidence, medium trust), and Gamma-Linolenic Acid (WA 52; low effect size, high evidence, medium trust) did not improve eczema symptoms in stronger trials, including prenatal supplementation studies. Eating fish in early childhood may be linked to lower eczema risk, but this is unproven. The heatmap and evidence reviews below cover all 19 supplements.
Effect graph
Relevant supplements
Relevant supplements sorted by DEX Score.
| Coconut Oil | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Whey Protein | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Vitamin E | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Olive Oil | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Ginger | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Fulvic Acid | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Evening Primrose Oil | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Elderberry | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Echinacea | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Aloe | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Vitamin B9 (Folate) | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Borage | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Black Tea | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Beta-Glucan | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Probiotics | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Vitamin A | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
Studies
Find individual evidence reviews for supplements sorted by DEX Score.
20 supplements for and rated at least stars. All purchase bands. No minimum star filter.
Coconut OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Using virgin coconut oil on the skin twice a day for 8 weeks helped children with eczema experience better symptom improvement and healthier skin compared to using mineral oil.
- Topical supplementation reduced skin dryness and irritation.
Browse 2 studies
RCTProspective Randomized Double-Blind Vehicle-Controlled Study of Topical Coconut and Sunflower Seed Oil-Derived Isosorbide Diesters on Atopic Dermatitis2024n=32
A 4-week double-blind RCT in 32 adults with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis found coconut- and sunflower-oil-derived isosorbide diesters improved itch by 65.6% versus 43.8% with vehicle and reduced topical steroid use.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 32
RCTThe effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial2014n=117
In 117 children with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis, topical virgin coconut oil for 8 weeks reduced SCORAD scores by 68% versus 38% with mineral oil (P<0.001).
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 117
Gamma-Linolenic AcidView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Research shows that taking supplements with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), such as evening primrose oil or borage oil, does not usually improve eczema symptoms in children or adults.
- Studies using a wide range of doses over several weeks found no clear benefits for itching, redness, or skin hydration compared with placebo oils.
- One small study in infants suggested possible improvement, but because it did not include a comparison group, the results are not reliable.
- Overall, GLA supplements are not considered effective for treating eczema.
Browse 3 studies·1 meta-analysis
RCTDietary supplementation of gamma-linolenic acid improves skin parameters in subjects with dry skin and mild atopic dermatitis2011
In adults with dry skin or mild atopic dermatitis, GLA-rich oil supplementation improved transepidermal water loss, with greater benefit in those with pro-inflammatory features.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Adults
MetaOral essential fatty acid supplementation in atopic dermatitis-a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials2004
A meta-analysis of 19 GLA and 5 fish oil eczema trials found pooled effect size for GLA on overall severity was 0.15 (95% CI −0.02 to 0.32), indicating no clinically relevant benefit.
- Effect
- No Benefit
Clinical trialThe efficacy and safety of gamma-linolenic acid in the treatment of infantile atopic dermatitis1994
In an open 28-day trial of infants with atopic dermatitis, 3 g/day GLA gradually improved erythema, excoriations, and itching, though no child achieved complete recovery.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 28 days
- Dose
- 3 g/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Avg age
- ~11 months
Whey ProteinView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not certain if feeding babies formula with whey protein lowers their chance of getting eczema.
- A recent review of several small studies found that using whey protein formulas for 4 to 6 months did not reduce eczema compared to regular milk formulas.
- Older studies suggested some benefit from whey protein formulas, but they had conflicts of interest and missed some small studies that showed no benefit.
- More evidence is required.
Browse 4 studies·4 meta-analyses
MetaInfant formulas containing hydrolysed protein for prevention of allergic disease2018n=90
In a meta-analysis of 90 participants, the data showed no difference in all allergic disease in infants (typical RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.01; participants = 2852; studies = 8) and children (typical RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.05; participants = 950; studies = 2), and no difference in any specific allergic disease including infant...
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 90
MetaMeta-analysis of a partially hydrolysed 100%-whey infant formula vs. extensively hydrolysed infant formulas in the prevention of atopic dermatitis2010n=580
In a meta-analysis of 580 participants, for 0–36 months, it appears that the efficacy of PHF-W falls within the range of that of both EHF formulas (whey and casein) and allows the application of these results in a pharmacoeconomic model.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 0–36 months
- Population
- Infants
- Participants
- 580
MetaMeta-analysis of the evidence for a partially hydrolyzed 100% whey formula for the prevention of allergic diseases2010
In a meta-analysis in children/adolescents, for 0–36 months, these results should be interpreted with caution due to a lack of methodological rigor in many trials.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 0–36 months
- Population
- Children/adolescents
MetaPartially hydrolyzed 100% whey protein infant formula and reduced risk of atopic dermatitis: a meta-analysis2010
In a meta-analysis, a statistically significant 44% (summary relative risk estimate [SRRE] = 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.77) reduced risk of atopic manifestations, which included AD, was found among infants receiving PHF-W compared with infants receiving CMF.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Infants
AloeView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if aloe alone helps eczema.
- One small study found that a cream combining aloe and olive oil improved eczema symptoms and quality of life better than a steroid cream.
- It’s not clear whether aloe, olive oil, or both contributed to this benefit.
Browse 1 study
RCTComparing the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera and olive oil combination cream versus topical betamethasone for atopic dermatitis: a randomized double-blind clinical trial2020n=36
In a 6-week RCT of 36 atopic dermatitis patients, Olivederma (aloe plus olive oil) improved SCORAD and quality of life more than topical betamethasone, with eosinophil and IgE improvements.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Population
- Patients with atopic dermatitis
- Participants
- 36
- Ages
- 17–70
EchinaceaView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Using a cream with echinacea extract may help reduce symptoms of mild eczema like redness, swelling, itching, and dryness.
- One study found that applying echinacea cream 2 to 3 times daily for 12 weeks worked better than a cream made from birch bark.
- It might take up to 3 months to see the full benefits.
- This cream has not yet been tested against common eczema treatments like steroid creams but was safe to use.
Browse 1 study
RCTEchinacea purpurea-derived alkylamides exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects and alleviate clinical symptoms of atopic eczema2017
In three randomized trials, an E. purpurea alkylamide cream significantly reduced SCORAD scores and improved epidermal lipids in atopic eczema versus comparator, with good tolerability.
- Effect
- Benefit
ElderberryView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- No summary is available.
Browse 1 study
RCTA Comparison of the Effect of Topical Preparation of Sambucus ebulus L. and Hydrocortisone on Hand Eczema: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial2021n=38
In 81 hand eczema patients over 4 weeks, topical Sambucus ebulus reduced HECSI and itching comparably to hydrocortisone, with significantly better dermatology life quality index scores in the S. ebulus group (p = 0.02).
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Population
- Hand eczema patients
- Participants
- 38
- Ages
- 18–60
Evening Primrose OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is unclear if taking evening primrose oil by mouth helps adults or children with eczema (atopic dermatitis), as research results are mixed.
- Many studies used brands like Epogam and Efamol.
- Some small studies in adults found that taking 2 to 3 grams twice daily for a few weeks to several months slightly improved skin rash, itching, and dryness.
- Other small studies using higher doses did not show any benefit.
- A review of several low-quality studies found that taking 0.5 to 6 grams daily for 2 to 5 months did not improve eczema symptoms overall.
- In children aged 2 to 18, some small studies showed improvements with evening primrose oil, but others found no difference compared to placebo.
- Differences in study size, quality, eczema severity, how long people had eczema, and doses used may explain the mixed results.
Browse 15 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaHerbal Medicine in Children and Adults With Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis2024n=3,763
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 51 RCTs (3,763 participants) evaluated herbal medicines for atopic dermatitis; included trials assessed multiple herbs and complex remedies for pruritus and disease severity.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 3,763
MetaOral evening primrose oil and borage oil for eczema2013n=1,596
A Cochrane review of 27 EPO/BO eczema trials (1,596 participants) found oral borage and evening primrose oils did not significantly improve global eczema severity versus placebo (MD −2.22 on 0–100 scale, 95% CI −10.48 to 6.04).
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 1,596
RCTEvening primrose oil is effective in atopic dermatitis: a randomized placebo-controlled trial2008n=25
In 25 atopic dermatitis outpatients per group over 5 months, 500 mg evening primrose oil twice daily improved clinical severity scores (extent, intensity, itching, dryness) versus sunflower oil placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 5 months
- Dose
- 1000 mg/day
- Population
- Atopic dermatitis patients
- Participants
- 25
The therapeutic effect of evening primrose oil in atopic dermatitis patients with dry scaly skin lesions is associated with the normalization of serum gamma-interferon levels2002
In 14 atopic dermatitis patients with dry scaly lesions, evening primrose oil markedly reduced lesion extent and pruritus, raised serum IFN-gamma, and lowered IgE, suggesting benefit in noninflammatory atopic dermatitis.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Atopic dermatitis patients
RCTEpogam evening primrose oil treatment in atopic dermatitis and asthma1996n=60
In 58 of 60 children with atopic dermatitis treated 16 weeks, Epogam raised plasma essential fatty acids and eczema scores improved, but active treatment did not differ significantly from placebo; asthma symptoms were unchanged.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Dose
- 6 g/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 60
RCTEvening primrose oil (Epogam) in the treatment of chronic hand dermatitis: disappointing therapeutic results1996n=39
In 39 patients with chronic hand dermatitis over 16 weeks, Epogam evening primrose oil 600 mg/day GLA did not produce meaningful clinical or epidermal lipid improvements versus placebo in a double-blind trial.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Dose
- 600 mg/day
- Population
- Hand dermatitis patients
- Participants
- 39
RCTPlacebo-controlled trial of essential fatty acid supplementation in atopic dermatitis1993n=123
In 123 atopic dermatitis patients randomized to evening primrose oil, EPO plus fish oil, or placebo for 16 weeks, essential fatty acid supplementation did not improve clinical severity, steroid use, or symptom scores.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Population
- Atopic dermatitis patients
- Participants
- 123
Clinical trialA long-term study on the use of evening primrose oil (Efamol) in atopic children1988
In atopic children given evening primrose oil long-term, clinical condition improved markedly after 4 weeks and remained improved through 20 weeks of supplementation, with changes in plasma and cell fatty acids.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 20 weeks
- Population
- Children/adolescents
Controlled trialEvening primrose oil (Efamol) in the treatment of children with atopic eczema1988n=24
In 24 children with atopic eczema, higher-dose Efamol evening primrose oil for 4 weeks significantly improved eczema versus olive oil placebo (p<0.01) with corresponding plasma fatty acid changes.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 24
Controlled trialEfamol in the treatment of atopic dermatitis1987
A controlled clinical trial assessed Efamol evening primrose oil for atopic dermatitis symptom relief, evaluating whether gamma-linolenic acid supplementation improves disease activity.
- Effect
- Benefit
Controlled trialEvening primrose oil in the treatment of atopic eczema: effect on clinical status, plasma phospholipid fatty acids and circulating blood prostaglandins1987n=14
In a 12-week double-blind trial (14 EPO, 11 placebo), evening primrose oil significantly improved eczema severity, inflammation, body surface involvement, dryness, and itch more than placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Population
- Atopic eczema patients
- Participants
- 14
Controlled trialAtopic dermatitis and essential fatty acids: a biochemical basis for atopy?1985n=99
In 99 atopic dermatitis patients in a crossover trial, evening primrose oil improved dermatitis; plasma EFA changes and a proposed delta-6-desaturase defect were noted, with effects likely not primarily immunological.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Atopic dermatitis patients
- Participants
- 99
RCTAtopic eczema unresponsive to evening primrose oil (linoleic and gamma-linolenic acids)1985n=123
In 123 atopic eczema patients in a crossover trial, oral evening primrose oil (2–8 g/day by age) did not significantly change erythema, scale, excoriation, lichenification, or overall severity.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 2–8 g/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 123
RCTOral evening-primrose-seed oil improves atopic eczema1982
An early randomized trial reported that oral evening primrose seed oil improved atopic eczema symptoms compared with control, supporting therapeutic benefit from gamma-linolenic acid supplementation.
- Effect
- Benefit
RCTTreatment of atopic eczema with evening primrose oil1981
An early randomized trial evaluated evening primrose oil for atopic eczema, assessing whether oral supplementation improves dermatitis symptoms compared with control.
- Effect
- Benefit
Fish OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking fish oil by mouth does not treat or prevent eczema (atopic dermatitis).
- Strong evidence from clinical studies shows fish oil does not improve eczema symptoms or stop children from developing eczema.
- Some early studies gave mixed results, but better research found no benefit from fish oil supplements taken by pregnant women or infants.
- There is some suggestion that eating fish in early childhood might lower the chance of getting eczema, but this is not proven.
Browse 11 studies·2 meta-analyses
RCTPrenatal Fish Oil Supplementation, Maternal COX1 Genotype, and Childhood Atopic Dermatitis: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial2024n=635
A secondary analysis of 635 mother-child pairs found prenatal fish oil 2.4 g/day did not significantly alter childhood atopic dermatitis risk overall, with exploratory analyses by maternal COX1 genotype.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- from 24 weeks' gestation to 1 week postpartum
- Dose
- 2.4 g/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 635
- Avg age
- ~10
RCTFish Oil-Derived Fatty Acids in Pregnancy and Wheeze and Asthma in Offspring2016n=695
A study of 695 pregnant women found that when taken from 24 weeks’ gestation to 1 week after labor, 2.4 g/day triacylglycerol fish oil (Incromega TG33/22, Croda Health Care, 55% EPA and 37% DHA) was not associated with a reduction in infant eczema at 3-5 years of age. [10697]
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 2.4 g/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 695
- Ages
- 3–5
RCTRandomized controlled trial of fish oil supplementation in pregnancy on childhood allergies2013n=706
A study of 706 children at hereditary risk of allergic disease found that fish oil (900 mg omega-3) taken from 21 week’s gestation to birth reduced the rate of eczema with sensitisation from 19.0% to 13.8% but this result not significant (adjusted relative risk 0.75, 95% CI 0.53-1.05, P=0.10). [10701]
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- from 21 weeks' gestation until birth
- Dose
- 900 mg/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 706
MetaDietary supplements for established atopic eczema2012n=596
A meta-analysis of two studies including 176 patients found that fish oil improved subjective quality of life but had no significant effect on pruritis or induration in adults with moderate to severe eczema. [10698]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 596
RCTEffect of n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in pregnancy on infants' allergies in first year of life: randomised controlled trial2012n=368
An Australian study of 706 infants at high risk of allergic disease found that fish oil (900 mg omega-3) taken from 21 weeks’ gestation to birth reduced the likelihood of atopic eczema from 12% to 7% in offspring (unadjusted relative risk 0.61, 0.38 – 0.98, p = 0.04 adjusted relative risk 0.64, 0.40 – 1.02, P=0.06) [10700]. The subjects in this study were re-evaluated at 3 years of age in a later study [10701].
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- from 21 weeks' gestation until birth
- Dose
- 900 mg/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 368
RCTPostnatal fish oil supplementation in high-risk infants to prevent allergy: randomized controlled trial2012n=323
A study of 323 infants at high atopic risk found that fish oil taken from birth to 6 months did not reduce eczema risk at 12 months of age. [10699]
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 6 months
- Dose
- 280 mg DHA + 110 mg EPA/day
- Population
- Infants
- Participants
- 323
- Ages
- 0–6 months
Systematic reviewAtopy risk in infants and children in relation to early exposure to fish, oily fish, or long-chain omega-3 fatty acids: a systematic review2011
A systematic review found maternal fish intake during pregnancy was consistently associated with protective atopic outcomes in infants/children, while intervention evidence from fish oil supplements was more mixed.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Women
Systematic reviewThe effect of perinatal omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on inflammatory markers and allergic diseases: a systematic review2011n=949
A systematic review of 5 perinatal omega-3 RCTs (949 participants) found insufficient evidence that n-3 supplementation during pregnancy/lactation reduces childhood food allergy, atopy, or asthma.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Pregnant women
- Participants
- 949
ObservationalDo early intake of fish and fish oil protect against eczema and doctor-diagnosed asthma at 2 years of age? A cohort study2010n=3,086
In 3,086 Norwegian children followed to age 2, eating fish ≥1 time/week after age 1 reduced eczema risk (aOR 0.62); oily fish showed stronger protection (aOR 0.21), without clear effects on doctor-diagnosed asthma.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Pregnant women
- Participants
- 3,086
MetaOral essential fatty acid supplementation in atopic dermatitis-a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials2004
A meta-analysis found that EFA fish oil did not improve itch, scaling or lichenification in atopic dermatitis. [10702]
- Effect
- No Benefit
RCTFish oil supplementation in pregnancy modifies neonatal allergen-specific immune responses and clinical outcomes in infants at high risk of atopy: a randomized, controlled trial2003n=40
A study of 83 women found that fish oil supplementation (from 20 week’s gestation to delivery) reduced the risk of severe disease in infants at 1 year of age but did not affect the frequency of atopic dermatitis. [10703]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- from 20 weeks' gestation until delivery
- Dose
- 3.7 g/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 40
Fulvic AcidView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Topical fulvic acid 5% applied twice daily for four weeks may help improve eczema symptoms such as redness and itchiness.
- It is generally well tolerated with mild, brief burning reported by some users.
- More research is needed to confirm these effects.
Browse 1 study
RCTRandomized, parallel-group, double-blind, controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carbohydrate-derived fulvic acid in topical treatment of eczema2011n=36
In a 4-week double-blind RCT of 36 eczema patients (ages ≥2), topical carbohydrate-derived fulvic acid improved global treatment response and erythema versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Pregnant women
- Participants
- 36
GingerView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Ginger creams or ointments have only been tested when mixed with other ingredients, not by themselves.
- In one study, a cream with ginger and cannabidiol used twice a day for 5 days improved redness, itching, dryness, and scaling in people with eczema.
- But since there was no comparison group, it isn’t clear if the benefits came from ginger, the other ingredient, or the combination.
Browse 1 study
RCTAn oil-in-water emulsion containing a combination of ginger extract and synthetic cannabidiol with potent in vitro anti-inflammatory effects alleviates symptoms of atopic dermatitis in a clinical trial2024
In atopic dermatitis patients, a ginger and synthetic cannabidiol emulsion significantly reduced inflammation and pruritus versus placebo in a randomized clinical trial.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Adults
MelatoninView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Early research in children with eczema and sleep problems shows that melatonin may help.
- A 3 mg daily dose for 4 weeks reduced eczema symptoms by about 19% compared to placebo.
- Another study using 6 mg daily before bedtime for 6 weeks improved both eczema severity and sleep quality.
- It is not clear whether melatonin helps children fall asleep faster, as studies show mixed results.
Browse 2 studies
RCTThe effects of melatonin administration on disease severity and sleep quality in children with atopic dermatitis: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial2018n=35
A 6-week RCT of 70 children with atopic dermatitis found 6 mg/day melatonin significantly improved SCORAD severity index (−3.55), objective SCORAD (−3.23), and sleep habit scores vs placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Dose
- 6 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 35
- Ages
- 6–12
RCTMelatonin Supplementation for Children With Atopic Dermatitis and Sleep Disturbance: A Randomized Clinical Trial2016n=73
A 4-week crossover RCT of 48 children with atopic dermatitis found 3 mg/day melatonin reduced SCORAD by 9.1 points and shortened sleep-onset latency vs placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Dose
- 3 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 73
- Ages
- 1–18
Olive OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Studies have only looked at olive oil used together with other ingredients, so it is not clear how well olive oil alone works.
- One small study showed that a mixture of olive oil, honey, and beeswax used with a steroid cream helped improve eczema compared to before treatment, but there was no comparison group.
- Another small study found that a cream combining olive oil and aloe vera (called Olivederma) was better at improving eczema symptoms than a steroid cream, but the starting severity of eczema was different in the two groups, which might affect the results.
Browse 2 studies
RCTComparing the Therapeutic Effects of Aloe vera and Olive Oil Combination Cream versus Topical Betamethasone for Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Double-blind Clinical Trial2020n=36
In a 6-week RCT of 36 atopic dermatitis patients, Olivederma (aloe plus olive oil) improved SCORAD and quality of life more than topical betamethasone, with eosinophil and IgE improvements.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Population
- Patients with atopic dermatitis
- Participants
- 36
- Ages
- 17–70
Controlled trialTopical application of natural honey, beeswax and olive oil mixture for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis: partially controlled, single-blinded study2003n=18
In 39 patients with atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, a honey–beeswax–olive oil mixture improved symptoms in most cases and allowed corticosteroid dose reduction in several patients.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Patients with dermatitis
- Participants
- 18
Vitamin EView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking vitamin E by itself doesn’t seem to reduce eczema symptoms.
- Studies show that 600 IU vitamin E with selenium for 12 weeks doesn’t help more than placebo or selenium.
- Taking vitamin E with vitamin D may improve overall eczema symptoms and itching, but vitamin E alone doesn’t.
- Vitamin E alone may help with thick, dry skin.
Browse 2 studies
RCTRandomized controlled trial using vitamins E and D supplementation in atopic dermatitis2011n=12
In an RCT of 12 participants, 1600 IU/day, for 60 days, this study supports the contributing and beneficial effects of vitamins D and E in the treatment of atopic dermatitis.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 60 days
- Dose
- 1600 IU/day
- Population
- Patients
- Participants
- 12
RCTThe effect on atopic dermatitis of supplementation with selenium and vitamin E1989n=60
In an RCT of 60 participants, 600 IU/day, for 12 weeks, there was no significant difference between the three Groups in the severity of the eczema or the concentration of selenium either before or after the 12 weeks of supplementation.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 600 IU/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 60
Beta-GlucanView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if beta-glucan creams help eczema.
- Early studies show that applying a cream with beta-glucans a few times daily for 6 months modestly reduces itching, flare severity, and overall eczema symptoms compared to regular moisturizers.
Browse 1 study
Clinical trialβ-Glucan-based cream (containing pleuran isolated from Pleurotus ostreatus) in supportive treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis2016n=105
In 80 of 105 mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis patients completing a split-body study, topical beta-glucan (pleuran) cream significantly reduced EASI scores and pruritus on the treated side versus control.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Patients with atopic dermatitis
- Participants
- 105
Black TeaView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- No summary available.
Browse 1 study
ObservationalExploring Genetic Association of Tea Intake With Allergic Diseases Among European Population: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study2024
A Mendelian randomization study in Europeans found genetically predicted higher tea intake associated with lower atopic dermatitis risk (OR 0.71) and allergic asthma (OR 0.50), but not allergic rhinitis.
- Effect
- Benefit
BorageView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking borage seed oil by mouth does not seem to help reduce eczema (atopic dermatitis) symptoms in adults or children.
- Large studies and reviews have found no meaningful improvements in skin redness, itching, or the need for steroid creams compared to placebos.
- Borage oil is usually safe to take, but it probably doesn’t improve eczema symptoms.
Browse 7 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaOral evening primrose oil and borage oil for eczema2013n=1,596
A Cochrane review of 27 EPO/BO eczema trials (1,596 participants) found oral borage and evening primrose oils did not significantly improve global eczema severity versus placebo (MD −2.22 on 0–100 scale, 95% CI −10.48 to 6.04).
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 1,596
MetaOral essential fatty acid supplementation in atopic dermatitis – a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials2004
A meta-analysis of 19 GLA and 5 fish oil eczema trials found pooled effect size for GLA on overall severity was 0.15 (95% CI −0.02 to 0.32), indicating no clinically relevant benefit.
- Effect
- No Benefit
RCTEfficacy and tolerability of borage oil in adults and children with atopic eczema: randomised, double blind, placebo controlled, parallel group trial2003n=151
In 140 adults and children with atopic eczema, 12 weeks of borage oil (920–1840 mg/day GLA) did not significantly improve SASSAD scores versus placebo (mean improvement difference 1.4 points favoring placebo, p=0.45).
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 920–1840 mg/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 151
RCTGamma-linolenic acid supplementation for prophylaxis of atopic dermatitis – a randomized controlled trial in infants at high familial risk2003n=118
In 118 at-risk formula-fed infants, 100 mg/day GLA from borage oil for 6 months did not prevent atopic dermatitis but trended toward lower SCORAD severity at 1 year (p=0.09).
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 6 months
- Dose
- 100 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 118
- Ages
- infants
Efficacy of borage oil in patients with atopic eczema – reply from author2000
An author reply regarding borage oil trials for atopic eczema reaffirmed that available controlled evidence does not support clinically meaningful benefit over placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
RCTDouble-blind, multicentre analysis of the efficacy of borage oil in patients with atopic eczema1999n=60
In 160 adults with moderate atopic eczema, 500 mg/day borage oil (≥23% GLA) for 24 weeks did not significantly reduce rescue steroid use or overall disease activity versus placebo, though a compliant subgroup showed some benefit.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 24 weeks
- Dose
- 500 mg/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 60
RCT[Gamma-linolenic-acid-rich borage seed oil capsules in children with atopic dermatitis. A placebo-controlled double-blind study]1997n=10
In 24 children with atopic dermatitis (ages 3–17), 360 mg/day GLA from borage seed oil for 10–14 weeks did not improve eczema severity versus corn oil placebo on objective Costa scores or patient diaries.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 14 weeks
- Dose
- 360 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 10
- Ages
- 3–17
Vitamin B9 (Folate)View supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear whether folic acid affects eczema risk.
- The available research mainly looks at mothers taking folic acid during pregnancy and whether their children later develop eczema, but the results do not prove folic acid is the cause.
Browse 1 study
ObservationalPre-natal folic acid and iron supplementation and atopic dermatitis in the first 6 years of life2019n=395
An observational study of 395 pregnant women found that children in which mothers used both iron and folic acid supplementation had a fourfold decreased risk of developing atopic dermatitis [OR = 0.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06-0.79, p = 0.02], after adjusting for possible confounding factors.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Pregnant women
- Participants
- 395
Vitamin DView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking vitamin D (usually 1000 to 2000 IU daily for weeks) can slightly reduce eczema severity in children, often along with their usual medicines.
- But taking vitamin D during pregnancy or infancy does not seem to lower the risk of children developing eczema in the first few years.
Browse 3 studies·2 meta-analyses
MetaVitamin D Supplementation and Allergic Diseases during Childhood: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis2022n=2,347
A meta-analysis of 32 RCTs in 2,347 children found vitamin D did not reduce asthma exacerbations overall but cut eczema severity and allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 2,347
MetaVitamin D supplementation in pregnant women or infants for preventing allergic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2022
A meta-analysis of 7 RCTs found prenatal or infant vitamin D supplementation did not reduce risk of asthma, wheeze, eczema, allergic rhinitis, or food allergy.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Women
MetaPrenatal vitamin D supplementation reduces risk of asthma/recurrent wheeze in early childhood: A combined analysis of two randomized controlled trials2017n=806
Combined analysis of two prenatal RCTs (806+581 women) found high-dose vitamin D reduced offspring asthma/recurrent wheeze to age 3 (aOR 0.74), strongest when maternal 25(OH)D ≥30 ng/mL.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 400 IU/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 806
- Ages
- 0–3
ProbioticsView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Probiotics are possibly effective for Eczema.
Browse 1 study·1 meta-analysis
MetaSystematic review and meta-analysis on probiotics as treatment for food allergies among pediatric patients: A 2024 update2025
A 2024 meta-analysis of 13 pediatric food allergy RCTs found probiotics uncertain for eczema in cow's milk allergy but may aid tolerance induction after ≥2 years with LGG strain.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
Vitamin AView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if taking vitamin A while breastfeeding helps prevent eczema in babies.
- One small study found that giving breastfeeding parents vitamin A and vitamin D for two months did not lower the chance of their babies developing eczema compared to no supplements.
Browse 1 study
RCTImpact of Maternal Daily Oral Low-Dose Vitamin A Supplementation on the Mother-Infant Pair: A Randomised Placebo-Controlled Trial in China2021n=245
An RCT of 245 lactating Chinese women found daily low-dose vitamin A 1800 IU for 2 months improved maternal serum retinol and slowed the decline in breast milk retinol but did not reduce infant febrile illness or eczema.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 2 months
- Dose
- 1800 IU/day
- Population
- Women
- Participants
- 245
- Ages
- 20–40
Evidence visualised
Same ratings as above, aggregated so you can see coverage and imbalance.
| Supplement | DEX | Studies | Meta-analyses | Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evening Primrose Oil | ★★★★★44% | 15 | 1 | 25% |
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★44% | 11 | 2 | 18% |
| Borage | ★★★★★40% | 7 | 1 | 11% |
| Whey Protein | ★★★★★52% | 4 | 4 | 7% |
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★52% | 3 | 1 | 5% |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★40% | 3 | 2 | 5% |
| Coconut Oil | ★★★★★56% | 2 | 0 | 3% |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 3% |
| Olive Oil | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 3% |
| Vitamin E | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 3% |
| Aloe | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Beta-Glucan | ★★★★★40% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Black Tea | ★★★★★40% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Echinacea | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Elderberry | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Fulvic Acid | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Ginger | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Probiotics | ★★★★★36% | 1 | 1 | 2% |
| Vitamin A | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Vitamin B9 (Folate) | ★★★★★40% | 1 | 0 | 2% |