Protocol · Skin Health
Xerosis (Dry Skin) Management Protocol
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin E are the core of this stack, with 7 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Xerosis (Dry Skin) Management.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
9 supplements · none graded yet · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Essential for skin barrier function; supports lipid production and reduces transepidermal water loss | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin E | Amount listed: 400 IU daily oral; topical application as needed | Antioxidant protection for skin; supports moisture retention; both oral and topical benefit | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Supports skin barrier function and keratinocyte differentiation; deficiency can worsen dry skin | Not graded yet | ||
| Hyaluronic Acid | Amount listed: 120–240 mg daily oral | Oral hyaluronic acid may improve skin hydration from within; holds 1000x its weight in water | Not graded yet | ||
| Collagen | Amount listed: 2.5–10 g collagen peptides daily | Collagen peptides improve skin hydration and elasticity; support skin matrix | Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Collagen (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–30 mg daily | Essential for skin health and wound healing; supports skin barrier integrity | Not graded yet | ||
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg GLA daily (from evening primrose or borage oil) | Omega-6 fatty acid that supports skin barrier; from evening primrose or borage oil | Not graded yet | ||
| Biotin | Amount listed: 2.5–5 mg daily | Supports skin, hair, and nail health; deficiency can cause dry, scaly skin | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin A | Amount listed: 5,000–10,000 IU daily (from diet + supplements; avoid excess) | Essential for skin cell turnover and barrier function; prevents keratinization | 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
Xerosis (dry skin) occurs when the skin's outer layer (stratum corneum) lacks adequate moisture and lipids. The result is rough, flaky, tight-feeling skin that may crack and itch. It's extremely common, especially in winter, with aging, and in certain medical conditions.
COMMON CAUSES:
- Environmental factors (low humidity, cold weather, wind, sun)
- Excessive bathing with hot water and harsh soaps
- Aging (reduced oil production)
- Medical conditions (eczema, psoriasis, hypothyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease)
- Medications (diuretics, retinoids, cholesterol medications)
- Nutritional deficiencies
TOPICAL CARE IS FOUNDATION:
- Moisturize immediately after bathing (within 3 minutes) while skin is still damp
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers (avoid bar soaps)
- Bathe in lukewarm (not hot) water and limit shower time
- Use thick creams or ointments, not thin lotions (look for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, petrolatum)
- Humidify your home in dry seasons (30-50% humidity)
- Avoid irritants (fragrances, dyes, wool)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* (fish oil) are essential building blocks for the skin's lipid barrier. They reduce transepidermal water loss and improve hydration from within.
Vitamin E* is an antioxidant that protects skin and supports moisture retention.
Vitamin D* supports skin barrier function; deficiency is associated with dry skin conditions.
Hyaluronic Acid* (oral) can improve skin hydration. It's a humectant that holds water.
Collagen peptides* improve skin hydration, elasticity, and density.
GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)* from evening primrose or borage oil supports the skin barrier.
Zinc and Vitamin A* are essential for skin health.
Expected timeline: Topical moisturizers work immediately but need consistent use. Oral supplements take 4-12 weeks to show noticeable skin improvements.