Product Reviews and Information for Eczema
Search term may appear only in full report available to members. Join now for full access.
CL Answer
Supplements for Eczema: Some May Help, While Others Don’t
Certain supplements may reduce symptoms of atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema), while others don't seem to work. Find out if gamma-linolenic acid, L-histidine, phytoceramides, probiotics, and other supplements may be beneficial.
CL Answer
5 Tips for Finding a Soap or Body Wash That Won't Irritate Skin
Get 5 tips for finding soap or body wash that won't cause skin irritation. See which soaps we rate best, ingredients to avoid, and phrases on labels that can mislead.
Product Review
Probiotic Supplements Review (Including Pet Probiotics)
Probiotics: See What They Really Contain and Our Top Picks
CL Answer
Can chocolate and cocoa powder cause eczema?
Does chocolate and cocoa cause eczema? Find out more, including information about nickel and nickel allergies.
Product Review
Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Flaxseed Oil, and Hemp Oil Supplements Review: Sources of ALA and GLA (Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids)
Choose the Best Seed Oil Supplements. Find Out Which Flaxseed and Other Seed Oil Supplements Passed Our Tests.
Clinical Update
11/14/2024
Supplements for Eczema
We published a new article about supplements for atopic dermatitis – the most common form of eczema.
Product Review
Apple Cider Vinegar Review — Bottled Liquids and Supplements
Find the Best Apple Cider Vinegar. See Which Apple Cider Vinegar Liquids and Supplements Passed Our Tests of Quality.
Product Review
Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, and Boron)
Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement and Avoid Problems
Clinical Update
8/29/2024
Fish Oil to Prevent Eczema?
Taking fish oil during pregnancy may decrease, or greatly increase, the risk of eczema in offspring depending on the mother’s genes, according to a recent study. Get the details in the During pregnancy: Effects on Children section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for fish oil.
Clinical Update
12/23/2020
B-12 for Eczema?
Can vitamin B-12 deficiency worsen eczema and can supplementing with B12 help? Find out what happened in a recent case in the vitamin B-12 section of section of our B Vitamin Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks for vitamin B-12.
Clinical Update
11/07/2020
Vitamin D For Eczema?
Can taking vitamin D help improve eczema? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.
Clinical Update
5/05/2013
Omega-6 for Eczema?
Supplements with the omega-6 fatty acid GLA from evening primrose oil or borage oil have long been promoted to treat eczema. However, a recent review of data from 27 studies casts doubt on this use. Get more information about this, and about omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, in the updated Black Currant, Borage, Evening Primrose, and Flaxeed Oil Supplements Review >>
Clinical Update
3/29/2015
Preventing Eczema with Probiotics
Allergy experts recently concluded that, when there is a family history of allergy, probiotics (taken by the mother or child) can reduce the risk of the child having eczema. For more information about this and other uses of probiotics — as well as our test reviews of products, see the Probiotic Supplements Review >>
Clinical Update
9/25/2018
Vitamin D for Eczema?
Can vitamin D help with eczema? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among Vitamin D supplements).
Clinical Update
7/23/2019
Apple Cider Vinegar for Eczema?
A study recently tested whether soaking skin in diluted apple cider vinegar would improve skin integrity in people with eczema (atopic dermatitis). See the results in the What It Does section of Apple Cider Vinegar Review. Also see our Top Picks among the products we've tested.
Clinical Update
11/16/2018
Probiotic Lowers Eczema Risk in Children
The risk of eczema in children was reduced by 54% when a specific probiotic was taken by mothers during pregnancy and then by their infants, according to a new study. The probiotic also reduced the incidence of gestational diabetes among the mothers. For details, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for probiotics.)
Clinical Update
9/12/2020
Probiotic for Eczema
Can applying a probiotic to the skin reduce eczema in children? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for probiotics.
Clinical Update
10/13/2020
Probiotic for Eczema
A probiotic was shown to reduce the extent and severity of atopic dermatitis (eczema) in a recent study. Get the details in the What It Does section of our Probiotics Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks for probiotics.
Product Review
Dark Chocolates, Cocoa & Cacao Powders, Nibs, and Supplements Review -- Sources of Flavanols
Is Your Chocolate or Cocoa Healthful or Toxic? Find the Best Dark Chocolate, Cocoa Powder and Cocoa Supplements Based On Our Tests.
CL Answer
What are phytoceramides? Do phytoceramide supplements really work to improve aging skin?
Phytoceramide supplement information, including what they are, what they claim to do, and if they have anti-aging effects.
CL Answer
How do the COVID-19 vaccines compare in terms of efficacy, safety and side effects? How, when and where do I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Find out how the COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna compare and learn how when and where you can get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Recalls & Warnings
September 24, 2024
Supplement for Eczema Recalled
On September 18, 2024, 123Herbals LLC issued a recall for all lots of Vail-Bon Jie Yang Wan capsules, which are promoted to treat eczema and other skin conditions, because they contain undeclared dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine.
Product Review
Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review
Find the Best Zinc Supplements and Lozenges. Have a Cold? See CL's Top Picks Among Zinc Supplements and Lozenges.
Clinical Update
4/12/2024
Olive Oil Soap
A CL Member asked if olive oil soaps can help moisturize dry skin. Find out what the evidence suggests, plus, learn how olive oil may affect eczema, in our article about soaps for dry skin. Also see our Top Picks for soap and bodywash for dry skin.
Also, see our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among bottled olive oils.
Clinical Update
11/04/2020
Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency
Zinc deficiency can cause a wide range of problems involving the skin, hair, mouth, and immune system. A recent report showed that it can also cause an eczema-like rash. Get the details and learn about the symptoms of zinc deficiency in the What It Is section of our Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review. Also see our Top Picks for zinc supplements and lozenges.
Clinical Update
2/08/2020
Vitamin D for Hives
If you suffer from chronic hives (or chronic urticaria) and are deficient in vitamin D, taking vitamin D may be helpful, according to a new study. (Vitamin D may also be helpful for other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.) Get the details in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.
Clinical Update
2/05/2012
Fish Oil During Pregnancy Reduces Allergy in Infants
Last year we reported important findings from a study of fish oil given to pregnant women. A further analysis of that study shows another benefit of daily fish oil for pregnant women -- their babies have nearly a 40% lower risk of egg allergies. A lower risk of eczema was also found, although this association did not hold after adjusting the data for certain factors. See the update to the Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes details on this study, the type and amount of fish oil taken, and our latest product tests.
Product Review
Mangosteen Juice and Supplements Review Article
What Are the Benefits of Mangosteen Juice and Supplements? Find Out What Mangosteen Can and Cannot Do For Your Health.
CL Answer
Which is the best mask to prevent COVID-19 and how do cloth, disposable, N95, and KN95 masks compare? How can I stop glasses from fogging?
See our Top Picks for masks. Learn how to make COVID-19 masks from materials at home that can be almost as effective as surgical mask and N-95 masks.
CL Answer
Mullein Tea: Possible Health Effects and Safety
Mullein tea is often promoted for relieving symptoms of lung conditions, including coughing, hoarseness, sore throat, and shortness of breath. Find out if there is evidence to support these uses, and learn about possible side effects of mullein.
Recalls & Warnings
December 14, 2003
"Herbal" Eczema Creams Found to Contain Potent Steroids
A recent British study reported that 20 of 24 creams used to treat eczema in children were found to illegally contain unlabeled amounts of corticosteroids.
Recalls & Warnings
January 16, 2014
Seller of Tea Supplements and Drinks Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On December 31, 2013, the FDA issued a warning to Prestige Chinese Teas Company, Inc.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of grapefruit seed extract (GSE)? Is it safe?
Learn more about grapefruit seed extract health benefits, including its possible antifungal and antibacterial effects and its safety.
CL Answer
Is echium oil a good alternative to fish oil? I am allergic to fish.
Echium oil as an alternative to fish oil. Learn more for those with fish allergies, including information on omega-3 fatty acids.
CL Answer
Do hair loss supplements, such as Viviscal, Hair La Vie, and Nutrafol, or topical essential oils work?
Vitamins and supplements that may help with hair loss and thinning, including saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, protein, iron, and vitamin D.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides, such as those used in Bulletproof Coffee?
Learn the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), including evidence from Bulletproof Coffee, clinical studies on obesity, skin, and Alzheimer's disease.
CL Answer
The distributor of my cacao powder says it checks for "metal fragments" in its products. Is this adequate to check for heavy metals, like cadmium and lead, that you've found in cocoas and chocolates?
Find out if tests such as foreign metal detection can show if cocoa powders and chocolate products are contaminated with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead. See amounts of these toxic heavy metals were found in cocoa and chocolate products tested by ConsumerLab.com
Clinical Update
12/19/2017
Probiotic for Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a recurrent, itchy inflammation of the skin. Taking a daily probiotic mixture was found to significantly reduce symptoms and the need for topical steroids in children with atopic dermatitis. Details are in the "What It Does" section of the Probiotic Supplements Review >>
CL Answer
Can any supplements be used to reduce inflammation in people sensitive to NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, high-dose aspirin, or naproxen?
Find out if supplements such as turmeric, fish oil, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine), boswellia, ginger, white willow bark or arnica may, or may not, be helpful to people sensitive to NSAIDs.
CL Answer
What are trace minerals and do I need them?
Trace minerals include boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, zinc, and others. Find out what they do, how much of each trace mineral you should be getting, and who's most likely to be deficient in these minerals.
CL Answer
Can castor oil eye drops improve or dissolve cataracts? Is castor oil or tea tree oil helpful for other eye conditions such as blepharitis or dry eye?
Can castor oil eye drops help cataracts or for other conditions such as blepharitis? Find out if castor oil eye drops are safe to use, and if they help for other conditions. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
Clinical Update
11/29/2015
Melatonin for Itchy Skin
Atopic dermatitis is an itchy inflammation of the skin, affecting up to 10% of adults and 30% of children. A recent study in children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis found that taking melatonin modestly reduced symptoms and, not surprisingly, reduced the time needed to fall asleep. For details about this and other uses of melatonin, as well our reviews of available melatonin supplements (including several similar to the one studied), see the Melatonin Supplements Review >>
Clinical Update
12/14/2021
Tip for Nickel Sensitive Folks
Nickel can trigger an allergic dermatitis in some people, such as from consuming chocolate that is high in nickel. A CL member asked us if supplements can reduce nickel absorption. The answer is yes. Find out how in the Nickel section of our Cocoa/Chocolate Review.
Clinical Update
3/29/2017
Vitamin E/Selenium & Alzheimer's
A long-term study among men in the U.S. found that giving high doses of vitamin E and/or selenium did not significantly affect their risk of developing dementia. The study was part of a larger study which found that these supplements increased the risk of prostate cancer, type 2 diabetes, hair loss, and dermatitis. For details, see the "Alzheimer's disease/dementia" section of the Selenium Supplements Review >>
Recalls & Warnings
December 15, 2020
FDA Warns Seller of Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan
On December 2, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Smoky Mountain Naturals, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
April 08, 2017
Woman Dies After Receiving Turmeric Infusion
On March 16, 2017, a San Diego, California woman died days after receiving an IV infusion of turmeric. Jade Erick, age 30, suffered a brain injury and cardiac arrest after receiving the first 5 mL of a 250 mL infusion of turmeric in the office of a naturopathic doctor.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2020
Seller of Vitamin D, MSM, Selenium & More Warned for Drug Claims
On March 31, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to KetoKerri LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about some of the company's products, including Dr.
Recalls & Warnings
October 24, 2012
Manufacturer of Green Tea, Vitamin E, Omega-3 and Cranberry Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations, Misbranding and Drug Claims
On October 16, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement manufacturer Advanced Nutritional Technology Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
September 10, 2014
Seller of Joint Pain Supplement Warned for Drug Claims
On August 24, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to CreAgri, Inc., following a website review, which found statements made about the company's products, including Olivenol plus Easeflex, Olivenol plus Essence Capsules, and Olivenol plus Essence Elixer, to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
May 22, 2018
FDA Warns Companies Selling "Sun Protection" Supplements
On May 18, 2018, the FDA issued warning letters to four companies selling supplements for sun protection because statements made on product labels, websites and in marketing materials were found to be drug claims, which are not permitted for dietary supplements.
Recalls & Warnings
February 10, 2018
Warning to D-Limonene, Vitamin C Seller
On January 31, 2018 the FDA issued a warning letter to Long Life Unlimited, LLC following a review of the company's website which found promotional statements and testimonials made about products including Balance 600, D-Limonene, Rapha Remedy, Rapha Remedy w/ p73 Wild Oregano, Vitamin C, ...
Recalls & Warnings
October 18, 2017
FDA Warns Seller of Arthritis, Blood Pressure, Diabetes Supplements For Making Drug Claims
On August 15, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Years to Your Health, Inc., following an inspection of the company's website which found a number of their products to be misbranded, as they contained drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
May 03, 2013
Homeopathic Company Warned For Drug Claims and Improper Labeling
On March 12, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Natural Medicine Associates, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
January 30, 2013
Seller of Omega-3 and Emu Oil Supplements Warned For Drug Claims, Misbranding
On November 19, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Emu Products & Management, Inc. after a review of the company's website found statements that promoted the dietary supplements Multi-Omega Gel Caps, Recovery Gel Caps, ARP Gel Caps and the topical skin products Extreme Cryo Gel, F.A.C.E.
Recalls & Warnings
August 30, 2012
Supplement Company Warned For Medical Claims and Misbranding Of Omega-3, CoQ10, Noni Juice And More
On July 12, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Alfa Vitamins Laboratories, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
June 05, 2012
Many "Grapefruit Seed Extracts" Adulterated
On June 4, 2012, the American Botanical Council (ABC) announced the publication of a review of scientific literature regarding “grapefruit seed extracts,” raising concerns about apparent adulteration of products in the US and international marketplaces.
Recalls & Warnings
November 28, 2014
Seller of Herbal Extracts Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims
On November 3, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Avena Botanicals, Inc.