Infographics 
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 5 Researches
7.4
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 694 Reviews
8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B-5) (From Calcium Pantothenate)
500 mg
10,000%
Calcium (From Calcium Pantothenate)
45 mg
3%
Top Medical Research Studies
4
We explored the role of extracellular calcium and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) in the functioning of sebaceous glands, with a focus on their implications for acne treatment. In our study, we looked at how different concentrations of calcium affect the morphology, cell count, and lipid production of SZ95 sebocytes, both in controlled lab conditions and in clinical observations of acne patients.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
Read More
8
We examined how calcium treatment influences sebum production, particularly in relation to acne. Sebocytes, the cells in our skin that produce oil, were treated with calcium, and we confirmed increased lipid production using well-established techniques. This response is important because excessive sebum is a key factor in acne development.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
Read More
9
We explored the effectiveness of combining microfocused ultrasound with a calcium hydroxylapatite dermal filler for treating acne scars. This approach was evaluated in a group of healthy adults aged 35-55, who had moderate to severe facial scars from acne.
During the treatment, ultrasound was applied in a cross-hatch pattern to stimulate the skin, followed by injections of a diluted calcium hydroxylapatite filler mixed with lidocaine for comfort. The results were assessed 90 days later, focusing on changes in scar severity and overall satisfaction of the subjects.
The findings revealed significant improvement in acne scars, particularly in those with severe scarring. The majority of participants reported being satisfied with their results, and no adverse side effects were noted. While calcium hydroxylapatite alone was not isolated in this study, its combination with ultrasound showed promising results for reducing scar visibility.
During the treatment, ultrasound was applied in a cross-hatch pattern to stimulate the skin, followed by injections of a diluted calcium hydroxylapatite filler mixed with lidocaine for comfort. The results were assessed 90 days later, focusing on changes in scar severity and overall satisfaction of the subjects.
The findings revealed significant improvement in acne scars, particularly in those with severe scarring. The majority of participants reported being satisfied with their results, and no adverse side effects were noted. While calcium hydroxylapatite alone was not isolated in this study, its combination with ultrasound showed promising results for reducing scar visibility.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Significant acne reduction
51 people found this helpful
Thank GOD my terrible acne face improved finally after 12 years! I struggled with oily skin and painful acne since the age of 15. It's been very depressing feeling antisocial and often being stared at. Despite trying numerous remedies, my skin remained oily, red, and covered in large acne. Thankfully, after taking pantothenic acid for about three weeks, I noticed my oiliness decreased significantly, and my acne healed much more quickly than before. By the third week, I was taking 7g daily and enjoyed a remarkable reduction in both oiliness and acne; I now have fewer than six red bumps. Although I still have scars and large pores, I'm content with the improvements!
Read More
9
Impressive acne results
49 people found this helpful
This amazing supplement helps me with my adult, hormonal cystic acne. I tried plenty of topicals and using Differin for a year, but nothing gave me such impressive results. I cut out sugar, milk, and caffeine, including chocolate and cacao, and I take 2.5g (5 capsules) twice a day, 30 minutes before food. It has other benefits too, like soothing the skin and reducing redness. A real treasure!
Read More
10
Miracle pill for skin
43 people found this helpful
I take two of these capsules three to four times a day and have had beautiful skin ever since. It took about a month or two to become fully clear, but I’ve been enjoying gorgeous skin for five months now after suffering from moderate to severe acne for seven years. Truly, it is my miracle pill. Now Foods provides the best quality at the most affordable prices, and I couldn't be more thankful!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 5 Researches
7.4
- All Researches
9
We explored the effectiveness of combining microfocused ultrasound with a calcium hydroxylapatite dermal filler for treating acne scars. This approach was evaluated in a group of healthy adults aged 35-55, who had moderate to severe facial scars from acne.
During the treatment, ultrasound was applied in a cross-hatch pattern to stimulate the skin, followed by injections of a diluted calcium hydroxylapatite filler mixed with lidocaine for comfort. The results were assessed 90 days later, focusing on changes in scar severity and overall satisfaction of the subjects.
The findings revealed significant improvement in acne scars, particularly in those with severe scarring. The majority of participants reported being satisfied with their results, and no adverse side effects were noted. While calcium hydroxylapatite alone was not isolated in this study, its combination with ultrasound showed promising results for reducing scar visibility.
During the treatment, ultrasound was applied in a cross-hatch pattern to stimulate the skin, followed by injections of a diluted calcium hydroxylapatite filler mixed with lidocaine for comfort. The results were assessed 90 days later, focusing on changes in scar severity and overall satisfaction of the subjects.
The findings revealed significant improvement in acne scars, particularly in those with severe scarring. The majority of participants reported being satisfied with their results, and no adverse side effects were noted. While calcium hydroxylapatite alone was not isolated in this study, its combination with ultrasound showed promising results for reducing scar visibility.
Read More
8
We examined how calcium treatment influences sebum production, particularly in relation to acne. Sebocytes, the cells in our skin that produce oil, were treated with calcium, and we confirmed increased lipid production using well-established techniques. This response is important because excessive sebum is a key factor in acne development.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
Read More
8
We explored the effectiveness of calcium hydroxylapatite as a treatment for moderate to severe atrophic acne scars. In a carefully structured study, twenty women with noticeable acne scars were treated with calcium hydroxylapatite alone and also in combination with high-intensity microfocused ultrasound (HIFU).
Our assessments showed promising results. After just one month, those who received the calcium treatment noted an improvement in their skin texture and wrinkles when compared to those who received a placebo. By three and six months, every participant in the study reported an improvement in their acne scars.
However, it's important to highlight that while the calcium treatment was indeed effective, adding HIFU did not provide any additional benefits beyond the results seen from calcium alone. This suggests that while calcium hydroxylapatite stands out as a solid option for tackling acne scars, pairing it with HIFU doesn’t necessarily enhance its effectiveness.
Our assessments showed promising results. After just one month, those who received the calcium treatment noted an improvement in their skin texture and wrinkles when compared to those who received a placebo. By three and six months, every participant in the study reported an improvement in their acne scars.
However, it's important to highlight that while the calcium treatment was indeed effective, adding HIFU did not provide any additional benefits beyond the results seen from calcium alone. This suggests that while calcium hydroxylapatite stands out as a solid option for tackling acne scars, pairing it with HIFU doesn’t necessarily enhance its effectiveness.
Read More
8
We explored how calcium may impact skin health, particularly in relation to acne. The study utilized an innovative screening method to identify effective exfoliating agents, focusing on amino acids like carnitine and serine. While the results highlighted these agents as effective in enhancing skin exfoliation, the study also noted the role of calcium.
However, it’s important to clarify that while calcium was mentioned, the study did not specifically isolate its effects on acne treatment. The agents tested showed effective results in improving the skin's turnover rate, hinting at potential benefits for various skin issues, including dullness and minor acne.
Ultimately, while the research signifies the promise of calcium in skincare, it stops short of stating it as a proven treatment for acne. For now, the focus remains on agents like carnitine and serine, which could support healthier skin through enhanced exfoliation.
However, it’s important to clarify that while calcium was mentioned, the study did not specifically isolate its effects on acne treatment. The agents tested showed effective results in improving the skin's turnover rate, hinting at potential benefits for various skin issues, including dullness and minor acne.
Ultimately, while the research signifies the promise of calcium in skincare, it stops short of stating it as a proven treatment for acne. For now, the focus remains on agents like carnitine and serine, which could support healthier skin through enhanced exfoliation.
Read More
4
We explored the role of extracellular calcium and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) in the functioning of sebaceous glands, with a focus on their implications for acne treatment. In our study, we looked at how different concentrations of calcium affect the morphology, cell count, and lipid production of SZ95 sebocytes, both in controlled lab conditions and in clinical observations of acne patients.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 694 Reviews
8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Significant acne reduction
51 people found this helpful
Thank GOD my terrible acne face improved finally after 12 years! I struggled with oily skin and painful acne since the age of 15. It's been very depressing feeling antisocial and often being stared at. Despite trying numerous remedies, my skin remained oily, red, and covered in large acne. Thankfully, after taking pantothenic acid for about three weeks, I noticed my oiliness decreased significantly, and my acne healed much more quickly than before. By the third week, I was taking 7g daily and enjoyed a remarkable reduction in both oiliness and acne; I now have fewer than six red bumps. Although I still have scars and large pores, I'm content with the improvements!
Read More
9
Impressive acne results
49 people found this helpful
This amazing supplement helps me with my adult, hormonal cystic acne. I tried plenty of topicals and using Differin for a year, but nothing gave me such impressive results. I cut out sugar, milk, and caffeine, including chocolate and cacao, and I take 2.5g (5 capsules) twice a day, 30 minutes before food. It has other benefits too, like soothing the skin and reducing redness. A real treasure!
Read More
10
Miracle pill for skin
43 people found this helpful
I take two of these capsules three to four times a day and have had beautiful skin ever since. It took about a month or two to become fully clear, but I’ve been enjoying gorgeous skin for five months now after suffering from moderate to severe acne for seven years. Truly, it is my miracle pill. Now Foods provides the best quality at the most affordable prices, and I couldn't be more thankful!
Read More
9
Brilliant oil control
23 people found this helpful
First of all, my oily skin has improved, and my makeup no longer collapses due to oiliness. The oiliness that affected my scalp and caused acne on my neck and back has also been reduced. I'm truly grateful for this product, and I've noticed improvement not only in my acne but also in my overall skin softness and appearance.
Read More
7.5
Life-changing for acne
18 people found this helpful
I read about others healing their acne, and I began taking up to 25 capsules a day. My skin cleared up, but when I ran out, the acne returned. It's worth it to heal my skin, and I’ll continue with a lower maintenance dose afterward. If you're struggling with acne like I was, this could help you too!
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Significant acne reduction
51 people found this helpful
Thank GOD my terrible acne face improved finally after 12 years! I struggled with oily skin and painful acne since the age of 15. It's been very depressing feeling antisocial and often being stared at. Despite trying numerous remedies, my skin remained oily, red, and covered in large acne. Thankfully, after taking pantothenic acid for about three weeks, I noticed my oiliness decreased significantly, and my acne healed much more quickly than before. By the third week, I was taking 7g daily and enjoyed a remarkable reduction in both oiliness and acne; I now have fewer than six red bumps. Although I still have scars and large pores, I'm content with the improvements!
10
Miracle pill for skin
43 people found this helpful
I take two of these capsules three to four times a day and have had beautiful skin ever since. It took about a month or two to become fully clear, but I’ve been enjoying gorgeous skin for five months now after suffering from moderate to severe acne for seven years. Truly, it is my miracle pill. Now Foods provides the best quality at the most affordable prices, and I couldn't be more thankful!
10
Cystic acne gone
8 people found this helpful
This cleared my cystic acne entirely within six months. Pantothenic acid is known to reduce acne significantly due to its effect on the sebaceous glands, which helps decrease bacteria causing acne. I began with 1000 mg for three months, resulting in a 70-80% decrease in acne. Eventually, I increased to 1500 mg daily, and after about 4.5 months, my acne has completely cleared. I’ve maintained clear skin for nearly a year now.
10
Acne cleared up
6 people found this helpful
I had severe acne in my teens and moderate acne in my 20s and 30s. Now at 40, after two terrible years with acne, I’ve used this for two months, and my face is completely clear. I take five tablets three times daily and will gradually reduce the dosage.
7.5
Improved condition
12 people found this helpful
I improved my acne-prone skin after suffering for about ten years. After around two weeks of taking this, sebum production decreased and acne became less frequent. However, the effect lessened over time, so I plan to continue taking it for a while.
10
Significant improvement observed
7 people found this helpful
Acne seems to be improving significantly; in combination with Margarite zinc cream and zinc picolinate, I've gone from moderate to severe forehead and chin acne to not a single spot in about 6 weeks. After three years of battling adult acne, only Zinc picolinate proved effective alongside the cream. I am currently taking 2 zinc picolinates and 3 or 4 B5s daily, applying the cream 2 or 3 times a day.
9
Significant improvement noted
6 people found this helpful
I initially struggled to notice the effect of supplements but started taking several tablets a day for my back acne. After a week, the roughness decreased substantially, and a month later, I no longer see painful pimples. I've had compliments on my improvement, and I plan to continue due to its effectiveness.
9
Reduces oiliness
10 people found this helpful
It's been three years since I started on pantothenic acid, and it significantly lessens oiliness on my face, which in turn reduces my acne. I recommend starting with 4 tablets daily after meals for a month to see results. Just be cautious; if taken too long at this dosage, it may lead to a dry, crumbly feeling similar to soapy hair. It's best to take 4 tablets at the beginning of the day for better absorption.
9
Impressive acne results
49 people found this helpful
This amazing supplement helps me with my adult, hormonal cystic acne. I tried plenty of topicals and using Differin for a year, but nothing gave me such impressive results. I cut out sugar, milk, and caffeine, including chocolate and cacao, and I take 2.5g (5 capsules) twice a day, 30 minutes before food. It has other benefits too, like soothing the skin and reducing redness. A real treasure!
7.5
Life-changing for acne
18 people found this helpful
I read about others healing their acne, and I began taking up to 25 capsules a day. My skin cleared up, but when I ran out, the acne returned. It's worth it to heal my skin, and I’ll continue with a lower maintenance dose afterward. If you're struggling with acne like I was, this could help you too!
9
Remarkable skin improvement
11 people found this helpful
This supplement transformed my skin after years of struggle with acne. Over the last six months, my skin has cleared up substantially. I initially took 10-12 g/day but now only require 3-6 g/day. I thought I’d always have acne; I wish I had discovered this sooner. It's important to note that this is not a miracle supplement; dietary choices still impact my skin.
8
We examined how calcium treatment influences sebum production, particularly in relation to acne. Sebocytes, the cells in our skin that produce oil, were treated with calcium, and we confirmed increased lipid production using well-established techniques. This response is important because excessive sebum is a key factor in acne development.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
Our findings showed that calcium not only increased the overall sebum output but also stepped up the levels of several key regulators involved in the lipogenesis process. Notably, we observed that calcium treatment boosted the expression of proteins like SREBP1, which plays a crucial role in managing lipid levels in skin cells.
We also discovered that the transcription factor KLF4 was elevated with calcium treatment. This raised a fascinating question: could KLF4 be enhancing lipid production? To test this, we overexpressed KLF4 in sebocytes, and indeed found that it further stimulated the expression of lipid-producing proteins and increased overall lipid production.
In conclusion, our study sheds light on the significant role of calcium in sebum production and highlights KLF4 as a promising new regulator in this process. These insights may open doors for developing more effective acne treatments by targeting sebum production pathways.
8
We explored how calcium may impact skin health, particularly in relation to acne. The study utilized an innovative screening method to identify effective exfoliating agents, focusing on amino acids like carnitine and serine. While the results highlighted these agents as effective in enhancing skin exfoliation, the study also noted the role of calcium.
However, it’s important to clarify that while calcium was mentioned, the study did not specifically isolate its effects on acne treatment. The agents tested showed effective results in improving the skin's turnover rate, hinting at potential benefits for various skin issues, including dullness and minor acne.
Ultimately, while the research signifies the promise of calcium in skincare, it stops short of stating it as a proven treatment for acne. For now, the focus remains on agents like carnitine and serine, which could support healthier skin through enhanced exfoliation.
However, it’s important to clarify that while calcium was mentioned, the study did not specifically isolate its effects on acne treatment. The agents tested showed effective results in improving the skin's turnover rate, hinting at potential benefits for various skin issues, including dullness and minor acne.
Ultimately, while the research signifies the promise of calcium in skincare, it stops short of stating it as a proven treatment for acne. For now, the focus remains on agents like carnitine and serine, which could support healthier skin through enhanced exfoliation.
4
We explored the role of extracellular calcium and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) in the functioning of sebaceous glands, with a focus on their implications for acne treatment. In our study, we looked at how different concentrations of calcium affect the morphology, cell count, and lipid production of SZ95 sebocytes, both in controlled lab conditions and in clinical observations of acne patients.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
Our findings revealed that when exposed to low levels of calcium, there was an increase in lipogenesis—this means the cells produced more lipids or oils. However, as we raised the extracellular calcium levels, we noted that the number of sebocytes increased, and their shape became more like epithelial cells, while lipid production decreased. Importantly, low calcium also led to a decrease in E-cadherin, a protein vital for cell adherence, which seemed to correlate with increased cell detachment and apoptosis, or cell death.
We also noted that 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to suppress oil production while simultaneously triggering autophagy, a process that helps cells clean out damaged components. In the clinical study involving acne patients, we observed no significant abnormalities in serum calcium levels, but younger patients had lower 1,25(OH)2D3 levels than older individuals.
This suggests that both calcium and vitamin D have a role in acne development, but there wasn't a clear, standalone benefit of calcium treatment for managing acne. Instead, the combination of increased calcium and decreased vitamin D might contribute to the problems seen in younger patients with acne. Overall, our research highlights the complex interplay between these nutrients and sebaceous gland function, offering important insights for potential acne therapies.
References
- Li X, Zeng X, Kim D, Jiang J, Wei F, et al. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) facilitates lipid production in immortalized human sebocytes via regulating the expression of SREBP1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2023;667:146. 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.043
- Antonino A, Francesco A. Prospective and randomized comparative study of calcium hydroxylapatite vs calcium hydroxylapatite plus HIFU in treatment of moderate-to-severe acne scars. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20:53. 10.1111/jocd.13472
- Ahn B, Lee SH, Kim JH, Goh A, Park SG, et al. Identification and validation of amino acid-based mild exfoliating agents through a de novo screening method. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;18:1404. 10.1111/jocd.12871
- Casabona G. Combined use of microfocused ultrasound and a calcium hydroxylapatite dermal filler for treating atrophic acne scars: A pilot study. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2018;20:301. 10.1080/14764172.2017.1406606
- Zouboulis CC, Seltmann H, Abdel-Naser MB, Hossini AM, Menon GK, et al. Effects of Extracellular Calcium and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 on Sebaceous Gland Cells In vitro and In vivo. Acta Derm Venereol. 2017;97:313. 10.2340/00015555-2525
