The Best Supplemental Help for Acne Prone Skin

Sometimes, your skin needs a little more support than you're currently getting, especially when it comes to clearing up acne. Please remember that acne is systemic and is an inflammatory condition. You need to treat internally as well as externally. 

If you already have an acne skincare regimen that is appropriate for your skin type and conditions, here are my top suggestions for additional support.

Note: If you need an acne regimen, my favorite kit is here. If you have combination, normal or dry skin, add in Reparative Moisture Emulsion.

These suggestions are a compilation of my research, personal experience and many years of working with clients hands-on. *Please note the disclaimer at the bottom of the article.*

LED- The beauty of LED devices is that they work very quickly, they can be used in conjunction with any skincare regimen and they're easily used in the comfort of your home. When selecting an LED device, be sure to look for one that is a professional homecare device, has a warranty and has clinical papers to back up the claims. The best LED for acne prone skin is BLUE LED. Infrared can also be beneficial in healing acne lesions. I recommend using LED up to 5x/week, in the morning, on clean skin. Be sure your skin is completely clean and free of oils before using your LED device. The most effective morning routine to use your LED device goes like this:

• Cleanse with a non oil-based cleanser, rinse and pat dry.
• Use LED device on affected areas.
• Re-wet/moisten skin with a toner or face mist.
• Continue with your recommended AM skincare routine.
• Practice this up to 5x/week.

You'll notice results quite quickly!

For acne across the entire face or those who want to target fine lines and wrinkles in the same treatment, I recommend the Acne and Wrinkle Reduction Light Panel. This device has a one year warranty and offers a full-face treatment in just 3 minutes.

For spot treating acne or those who have breakouts just on small portions of their face, I recommend the LightStim for Acne. This is device is USA made and comes with a 7 year warranty. The treatment time is 3 minutes per area.

HIGH FREQUENCY- This machine uses alternating and direct electrical current to essentially eliminate acne-proliferating bacteria on the skin, infuse pure oxygen to the surface creating an environment where anaerobic bacteria cannot survive. This also increases circulation and can reduce inflammation if used properly. This is typically a professional-only device, but in the past few years, some home versions have been released. They're sometimes referred to as zit zappers. Be sure to check for contraindications especially those concerning the use of electricity. Directions for how to use high frequency machine for acne:

• Cleanse skin thoroughly, rinse and repeat. Ideally do not use an oil-based cleanser. Pat skin dry.
• Apply a 2x2 cotton wipe over affected area.
• With one finger on the electrode, turn the device on and place over acne lesion.
• Release finger from electrode to send current to the acne lesion. Gently move around the lesion for about 1 minute. Do not break contact with the cotton gauze or your skin, or you could get shocked.
• After the session, use an acne healing or clarifying mask and then proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.

You'll notice results immediately. The lesion should be smaller, less inflamed. There may be redness around the lesions that will dissipate over the day. The skin may become dry and start to flake. Keep skin well hydrated with acne-friendly Hydra-Cool Serum and Reparative Moisture Emulsion. Allow the lesion to heal fully on its own without picking to reduce the chance of scarring and/or discoloration. This machine here is fairly user-friendly. Be sure to use the argon gas electrode for this purpose.

ORAL SUPPLEMENTS-

• Probiotics and prebiotics- These two additions can create a profound, symbiotic therapy for the gut flora. This is essential for balancing the microbiome and improving acne lesions. My favorite probiotic is this Synergized Acidophilus. You can also aim to increase your probiotics by consuming fermented and cultured foods such as cultured yogurt, kefir, labne, sauerkraut and kombucha. To help the probiotics proliferate, you can consume prebiotics, which are essentially food fuel to help the probiotics thrive. I recommend this Organic Inulin Powder. You can also aim to increase your fiber intake in your diet through foods such as artichokes, fresh green beans, berries, asparagus and onions.
• Colostrum- The ultimate in gut sealing and healing, colostrum contains over 200 bioactive ingredients to improve digestive health and immunity among a host of other health benefits. Gut health is absolutely connected to acne. I personally use ARMRA Colostrum (discount link) and am absolutely in love with it.
• Omega 3 fatty acids- These beneficial fatty acids can help to balance out unhealthy fatty acids, reduce inflammation (acne is inflammatory) and reduce potentially unpleasant side effects of using acne controlling medications or topical treatments. It's important to source the most clean, pure and third-party tested Omega 3 you can afford. I recommend these Alaskan Salmon Oil softgels. These have secondary benefits as well including hair and nail health, and cardiovascular support. Ultimate Omega is another high-quality product I trust.
• Zinc- Research has linked low zinc levels to severe acne. This is an easy mineral to incorporate into a daily multivitamin or as a standalone mineral supplement. Zinc may also play a role in hormone metabolism which can be a factor in acne lesions and severity. Zinc can also help reduce inflammation. For a multivitamin/multimineral, I like this Daily or Ladies Whole Food Multi and Men's Whole Food Multi. For a standalone zinc supplement, I like Ionic Zinc Liquid or these Zinc tablets.
• Vitex- If you're a female and you struggle with hormonal imbalance, consider the balancing herb knows as chaste berry or vitex. Vitex has been used for centuries to balance hormones and assist with acne, especially cystic acne. Results are typically seen within 3 months of use. Consult with your physician on the best way to incorporate it. I like this brand Vitex.
• DIM- An abbreviation for Diindolylmethane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach and brussels sprouts. DIM may reduce the frequency of acne breakouts by balancing hormones and decreasing oil production that can feed acne bacteria. Most research shows that DIM is best for acne lesions like typical pimples and also cystic acne. It is not as effective for blackheads. I like this clean, tested DIM.
• Chlorophyll- This is the substance that gives plants and certain foods their green color. Due to the high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants, chlorophyll can reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne lesions. Chlorophyll can also improve gut health and is used for reducing unpleasant breath or body odors. I like Organic Liquid Chlorophyll. I have used these for years simply by adding it into my water. It is very refreshing! I also mix it into any tea that I may be drinking that day. Just be careful not to get the liquid concentrate on anything as it can stain.
• Various Teas- I am a long-time tea lover! Various teas have been shown to assist in reducing acne inflammation. Most notably is Spearmint Tea which can help reduce hormonal acne. Enjoy several cups per day as it is caffeine-free. It can also be found blended with green tea (caffeinated) in my favorite Zen Green.

DIETARY ALTERATIONS- Why not try some dietary changes to see if certain foods you consume regularly are contributing to your acne? The two biggest dietary culprits I see are dairy products and gluten products. Consider completely eliminating these for 4 weeks to see if it makes a difference in your skin health. After 4 weeks, reintroduce one at a time and see if you're affected negatively.

Biotin/Hair Skin Nails Formulas- these supplements can actually aggravate acne! Try coming off of these for a few months if you’re currently using them. The same goes for high potency B complex supplements. 

LIFESTYLE- 

• Clean your phone daily with rubbing alcohol or a UV sanitizer. Even better, switch to hands-free.
• Wash your pillowcases at least 2-3x/ week. Do not use any fragrance in your laundry detergent, fabric softener or dryer sheets.
• Check your skincare and makeup products: are they non-comedogenic? Switch foundations, concealers etc for acne-friendly versions. Avoid beauty blenders and repetitive makeup brush usage.
• Dont skip! Always wash your face before exercising and double cleanse at night, even when you're tired!
• Refrain from picking and stay consistent.
• Try cryo-therapy! I love to use an ice roller or ice globes for anti-inflammatory support.

PRESCRIPTION OPTION-

Ask your doctor if you're a candidate for Spironolactone and consider the risk and benefits of using this. I have seen good success in clients adding this to their routine to control hormonal acne.

Another option is prescription tretinoin. I recommend starting on the lowest dose available, and following my retinoid protocol here.

Disclaimer: I am not a physician or a dietician and I do not intend to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or disorder. Please consult your physician before taking any new supplements or following any of the information in this article. This article is my own opinion and may not be shared, copied or reproduced in any way without written permission.