One of the biggest problems for people suffering from eczema is the constant, chronic dry skin. Dry skin causes irritation that sets off the infamous itch-scratch cycle that is so common in eczema sufferers. There are two ways to deal with dry skin: externally and internally. External skin care regimen includes applying moisturizers, avoiding skin-drying agents such as a harsh soap, hot or cold air directly onto the skin, or washing the dishes without wearing gloves. While proper moisturization is always a good protocol to follow, handling dry skin internally by consuming essential fatty acid should also be part of the total skin care regimen.

Chronic eczema has many causes, but EFA (essential fatty acid) deficiency is definitely part of the problem. EFAs cannot be manufactured by human bodies naturally: they must be ingested in some form. Two EFAs known for humans are omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid. The former is what should concern people with eczema the most: most humans are slightly deficient in the consumption of omega-3 fatty acid. Dry skin is one of the symptoms of omega-3 deficiency, so it would be worthwhile to boost the daily intake of omega-3s.

Omega-3s can be found in fish, shellfish, flaxseed, olive, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, leafy vegetables, among others. But it is cumbersome to consume all those foods and meet the daily requirement, which is about eight servings. The easiest way to consume omega-3s is through supplements, such as flaxseed oil or fish oil. To see a true improvement in your dry skin, it is important to read reviews of high quality supplements, written by people who have dry skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Invest the time and money in getting a good quality omega-3 supplement, consume it daily, and you will start seeing results, particularly in skin hydration.