Protocol · Dermatological
Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis) Protocol
Biotin and Zinc are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis).
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
5 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Biotin | Amount listed: 2,500–5,000 mcg daily | B vitamin essential for fatty acid metabolism and skin health; deficiency causes dermatitis | Not graded yet | ||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 30 mg daily | Essential for skin cell turnover and sebum regulation; has anti-fungal properties | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 1–2 g EPA/DHA daily | Reduces inflammatory response and supports healthy skin lipid composition | Not graded yet | ||
| Probiotics | Amount listed: 10 billion CFU daily | May modulate skin microbiome through gut-skin axis; reduces systemic inflammation | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin D3 | Amount listed: 2,000 IU daily | Regulates skin cell proliferation and has immunomodulatory effects | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis involve overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the scalp, combined with excess oil production and inflammation. While medicated shampoos are the primary treatment, these supplements address underlying nutritional factors.
- Biotin deficiency directly causes seborrheic dermatitis-like skin changes. While true deficiency is rare, some people have higher requirements. Biotin supports fatty acid synthesis for healthy skin lipids.
- Zinc has anti-fungal properties and regulates sebum production. Zinc pyrithione is a common ingredient in dandruff shampoos; oral zinc supports from within.
- Omega-3s reduce the inflammatory component of seborrheic dermatitis and support healthy skin barrier function.
- Probiotics may help through the gut-skin axis—gut dysbiosis is associated with various skin conditions.
- Vitamin D regulates keratinocyte proliferation and has anti-inflammatory effects on skin.
Important: For persistent dandruff, medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione are first-line treatments. Supplements are supportive.
Expected timeline: If deficiency is present, improvement within 4-6 weeks. Combine with topical anti-fungal treatment for best results.