Supplements for the skin may contain some of or a combination of the following ingredients:

• Added protein - the protein content of the horse’s diet has a big impact on coat condition
• Omega 3 oil – can support irritated skin
• Omega 6 oil  - contributes to normal cell function
• Flaxseed or Flax oil – improves the coat’s condition and is associated with healthy and resilient skin
• Vitamin A - used to support eye function, reproduction, and the health of bones, skin, and muscles.
• Vitamin E – nourishes the skin and promotes a shiny coat.  It neutralises free radicals to support the natural defences of the horse’s skin.
• Biotin – associated with supporting skin, hair and hoof health.
• Trace minerals (e.g. iron, zinc, selenium, copper,)
• Herbs such as nettle, chamomile or burdock root – these herbs are renowned for the way they support the skin.

Skin is the horse’s largest organ and its main function is to act as a protective barrier to the internal systems.  Healthy skin is resilient and elastic but sometimes, for various reasons, it can become dry and scurfy, or it can become damaged and sore. The horse or pony’s coat and skin is a reflection of their inner health and a loss of condition, itchy mane, dull coat or sore irritated legs can be a sign that something is not quite right. Horses who suffer from a scruffy, coarse, thin, dull or unkempt looking coat may be doing so for a number of reasons – but diet can be a factor. Nutritional supplements that correct these deficiencies can result in an improved coat condition.

There are certain times of year when additional skin support might be required, such as in the winter for horses prone to mud fever, and in the summer for horses prone to sweet itch. In these cases, a supplement can be added to the diet to help support the horse’s skin from the inside out.