Eczema is a long-term condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry and cracked, according to the NHS.
The condition most often develops before a child’s first birthday, although it can also appear in adults for the first time.
Eczema symptoms vary between having small patches of dry skin, and having widespread inflamed, red skin.
But, patients could relieve signs of their condition by taking daily vitamin E supplements, it’s been claimed.
Vitamin E supplements could reduce the signs of eczema in some patients, a study has claimed.
Almost half of all patients saw “significant” improvements to their condition after taking the supplements, the scientists found.
Fourteen per cent saw their eczema go into complete remission, they added.
Vitamin E could also leave your skin “glowing”, and could even boost your immune system, revealed nutritionist Dr Kellyann Petrucci.
“Vitamin E supports healthy skin due to its antioxidant activity,” said Petrucci. “However, it also works at the immune level to benefit your skin.
“There is even evidence demonstrating the ability for vitamin E when combined with vitamin A to help prevent the formation of blackheads and milia [small, firm pimples without a whitehead].
“Plus, vitamin E can help protect your sebum from oxidation, which can be irritating and contribute to inflammation.
“It is estimated that over 90 per cent of Americans are deficient in vitamin E. Partly because of the standard American diet, which is extremely nutrient deficient.
“Plus, vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin. This means it must be consumed with fat in order for your body to absorb it. Thus, the fat-free dieters out there are missing out.”
But, it’s difficult to get all of your daily vitamin E requirements from your diet, she said.
She suggests taking a 15mg vitamin E supplement every day as part of an antioxidant blend or multivitamin.
Vitamin E helps to maintain healthy skin and eyes, as well as boosting the body’s immune system, said the NHS.
Good dietary sources of the vitamin include plant oils, nuts and seeds, and wheatgerm, which is found in cereals and cereal products.
All men need 4mg of vitamin E every day, while women need 3mg a day.
If you decide to take vitamin E supplements, don’t take too much as it could be harmful.
But taking more 540mg or less a day is unlikely to cause any negative effects, it added.
