Last update
5/8/2026
Reviewed By
Infographics
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 20 Researches
7.2
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 3 Reviews
7.7
Top Medical Research Studies
8
We observed that acne is a common skin condition, particularly affecting individuals under 30. Our exploration into the role of diet revealed that nutrition significantly influences acne development. Among the various dietary components, omega-3 fatty acids stood out due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
The research indicates that foods rich in omega-3 can help reduce the production of inflammatory substances that may contribute to acne. Additionally, specific fatty acids, such as docosapentaenoic acid and γ-linolenic acid, have shown promise in improving acne lesions.
By integrating omega-3 into the diet, we might be able to mitigate some of the troublesome symptoms associated with acne. While the evidence is still unfolding, the link between omega-3 fatty acids and reduced acne severity offers a hopeful avenue worth considering for those battling breakouts.
The research indicates that foods rich in omega-3 can help reduce the production of inflammatory substances that may contribute to acne. Additionally, specific fatty acids, such as docosapentaenoic acid and γ-linolenic acid, have shown promise in improving acne lesions.
By integrating omega-3 into the diet, we might be able to mitigate some of the troublesome symptoms associated with acne. While the evidence is still unfolding, the link between omega-3 fatty acids and reduced acne severity offers a hopeful avenue worth considering for those battling breakouts.
Read More
8
We conducted a thorough investigation to understand how omega-3 fatty acids might help in treating acne, specifically focusing on inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. In our 10-week study, we randomly assigned 45 participants with mild to moderate acne into three groups: one received omega-3 fatty acids, another was given gamma-linolenic acid, and a third served as a control group.
After ten weeks of supplementation, the results were quite telling. Both the omega-3 and gamma-linolenic acid groups showed significant reductions in acne lesions. Participants also reported noticeable improvements in their skin condition, which matched the clinical findings. We used histological techniques to examine the acne lesions, which revealed a decrease in inflammation and a drop in interleukin-8 levels—a marker of inflammation.
Importantly, no severe adverse effects were reported, indicating that these supplements might be safe for acne treatment. This study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid can serve as helpful additions to traditional acne therapies, potentially leading to clearer skin for those who struggle with acne.
After ten weeks of supplementation, the results were quite telling. Both the omega-3 and gamma-linolenic acid groups showed significant reductions in acne lesions. Participants also reported noticeable improvements in their skin condition, which matched the clinical findings. We used histological techniques to examine the acne lesions, which revealed a decrease in inflammation and a drop in interleukin-8 levels—a marker of inflammation.
Importantly, no severe adverse effects were reported, indicating that these supplements might be safe for acne treatment. This study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid can serve as helpful additions to traditional acne therapies, potentially leading to clearer skin for those who struggle with acne.
Read More
9
We investigated the connection between omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and the risk of developing acne. By analyzing data from over 478,000 participants, we used a method called Mendelian randomization, which allows us to estimate causal relationships based on genetic information related to omega-3 consumption.
Our findings highlighted that higher levels of DHA were associated with a lower risk of acne. Specifically, a significant reduction in acne risk was observed with increased DHA levels and its ratio to total fatty acids. On the other hand, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of fatty acid, were linked to an increased risk of acne. Interestingly, the connection between LA and acne risk was influenced by genetic variations related to a specific gene (FADS1), which plays a role in fatty acid metabolism.
Overall, this study sheds light on how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, could provide a protective effect against acne. This finding could influence future dietary recommendations for those seeking to manage or prevent acne more effectively.
Our findings highlighted that higher levels of DHA were associated with a lower risk of acne. Specifically, a significant reduction in acne risk was observed with increased DHA levels and its ratio to total fatty acids. On the other hand, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of fatty acid, were linked to an increased risk of acne. Interestingly, the connection between LA and acne risk was influenced by genetic variations related to a specific gene (FADS1), which plays a role in fatty acid metabolism.
Overall, this study sheds light on how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, could provide a protective effect against acne. This finding could influence future dietary recommendations for those seeking to manage or prevent acne more effectively.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
2
Unusual breakouts
5 people found this helpful
I've been taking these vitamins for about a month. I cannot confirm if all results are due to the vitamins, but I had no menstrual cramps this month — a miracle! Unusually, I've also had a breakout of deep pimples on my face and back. I'm ceasing the vitamins to see if the acne will clear up.
Read More
6
Less intense acne
4 people found this helpful
I tried a different gummy vitamin to combat hair loss, but I ended up loving the Olly vitamin instead. My hair is healthier and grows nicely. Another review mentioned worsening cystic acne, but my experience has been the opposite: my cystic acne has become less inflamed and painful.
Read More
6
No worsened breakouts
13 people found this helpful
I finished a 90-count bottle, and nothing unusual happened! I have acne-prone skin, but these vitamins did not worsen my breakouts. I feel great with more energy than usual and the taste, being vitamins, is absolutely fine. Gummies are easier for me than large pills, so I’ll keep using these.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 20 Researches
7.2
- All Researches
9
Lactoferrin plus vitamins reduces acne
We conducted a rigorous study to assess how a combination of lactoferrin, vitamin E, and zinc influences acne vulgaris. In our research, we used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design with 168 participants aged 13-40. Over a period of three months, subjects received either the supplement or a placebo, taking the capsules twice a day.
What we found was promising. The group taking lactoferrin with vitamin E and zinc experienced a notable decrease in acne lesions, starting as early as two weeks into the trial. By the tenth week, the reduction in total lesions peaked at an impressive 28.5%. We also observed significant improvements in both comedonal and inflammatory lesions during this time frame.
It's important to note that while lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein, our study does not isolate the effect of iron on acne since the treatment involved additional components. Importantly, we did not encounter any adverse effects during the trial, suggesting the treatment's safety.
Overall, our findings suggest that this oral regimen could be an effective option for those dealing with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, but we cannot definitively state how much iron itself contributes to these results.
What we found was promising. The group taking lactoferrin with vitamin E and zinc experienced a notable decrease in acne lesions, starting as early as two weeks into the trial. By the tenth week, the reduction in total lesions peaked at an impressive 28.5%. We also observed significant improvements in both comedonal and inflammatory lesions during this time frame.
It's important to note that while lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein, our study does not isolate the effect of iron on acne since the treatment involved additional components. Importantly, we did not encounter any adverse effects during the trial, suggesting the treatment's safety.
Overall, our findings suggest that this oral regimen could be an effective option for those dealing with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, but we cannot definitively state how much iron itself contributes to these results.
Read More
9
Novel nanoparticles effective against acne bacteria in mice
Researchers developed innovative nanoparticles combining iron oxide with copper and a natural plant compound to fight acne-causing bacteria. The particles work through two mechanisms: when exposed to near-infrared light, they generate heat that damages bacterial membranes, while simultaneously releasing iron and copper ions in the acidic acne environment, triggering chemical reactions that kill bacteria and destroy biofilms.
In mouse acne models, the treatment dramatically reduced inflammation markers—cutting IL-6 by 33%, TNF-α by 46%, and MCP-1 by 51% compared to controls. Lesion thickness decreased 75% with nearly complete symptom resolution by day nine. The nanoparticles demonstrated excellent safety with over 90% cell survival at tested concentrations, suggesting a potentially breakthrough approach that combines antimicrobial action with skin-healing benefits without relying on antibiotics.
In mouse acne models, the treatment dramatically reduced inflammation markers—cutting IL-6 by 33%, TNF-α by 46%, and MCP-1 by 51% compared to controls. Lesion thickness decreased 75% with nearly complete symptom resolution by day nine. The nanoparticles demonstrated excellent safety with over 90% cell survival at tested concentrations, suggesting a potentially breakthrough approach that combines antimicrobial action with skin-healing benefits without relying on antibiotics.
Read More
9
We investigated the connection between omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and the risk of developing acne. By analyzing data from over 478,000 participants, we used a method called Mendelian randomization, which allows us to estimate causal relationships based on genetic information related to omega-3 consumption.
Our findings highlighted that higher levels of DHA were associated with a lower risk of acne. Specifically, a significant reduction in acne risk was observed with increased DHA levels and its ratio to total fatty acids. On the other hand, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of fatty acid, were linked to an increased risk of acne. Interestingly, the connection between LA and acne risk was influenced by genetic variations related to a specific gene (FADS1), which plays a role in fatty acid metabolism.
Overall, this study sheds light on how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, could provide a protective effect against acne. This finding could influence future dietary recommendations for those seeking to manage or prevent acne more effectively.
Our findings highlighted that higher levels of DHA were associated with a lower risk of acne. Specifically, a significant reduction in acne risk was observed with increased DHA levels and its ratio to total fatty acids. On the other hand, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of fatty acid, were linked to an increased risk of acne. Interestingly, the connection between LA and acne risk was influenced by genetic variations related to a specific gene (FADS1), which plays a role in fatty acid metabolism.
Overall, this study sheds light on how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, could provide a protective effect against acne. This finding could influence future dietary recommendations for those seeking to manage or prevent acne more effectively.
Read More
9
We explored the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on acne severity by conducting a 16-week study with 60 patients who were not on prescription medication. These patients followed a Mediterranean diet and supplemented their intake with algae-derived omega-3 fatty acids. Our aim was to raise their levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two essential nutrients known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
At the start, an overwhelming 98.3% of participants had low omega-3 levels. By the end of the study, we found a significant increase in the average levels of EPA and DHA, rising from 4.9% to 8.3%, which indicates successful dietary intervention. We observed noticeable improvements in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions, and people reported an overall enhancement in quality of life, especially those suffering from papulopustular acne.
While a few participants noted that their appearance actually worsened, the collective findings highlight that increasing omega-3 levels can significantly improve acne severity in those who initially had low levels. Notably, we also identified that reducing intake of cow's milk and dairy products played a crucial role in this dietary shift. Overall, our findings offer compelling evidence of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for acne treatment and underline the importance of dietary balance.
At the start, an overwhelming 98.3% of participants had low omega-3 levels. By the end of the study, we found a significant increase in the average levels of EPA and DHA, rising from 4.9% to 8.3%, which indicates successful dietary intervention. We observed noticeable improvements in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions, and people reported an overall enhancement in quality of life, especially those suffering from papulopustular acne.
While a few participants noted that their appearance actually worsened, the collective findings highlight that increasing omega-3 levels can significantly improve acne severity in those who initially had low levels. Notably, we also identified that reducing intake of cow's milk and dairy products played a crucial role in this dietary shift. Overall, our findings offer compelling evidence of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for acne treatment and underline the importance of dietary balance.
Read More
9
We aimed to understand how omega-3 fatty acids could help manage acne by potentially changing our gut bacteria. In our study, we grouped untreated acne patients and saw how those who received omega-3 supplements fared compared to those who did not over the course of 12 weeks.
Additionally, we worked with rats that had an acne model. We treated these rats with isotretinoin, omega-3 fatty acids, or a combination of both. Afterward, we transferred the colonic contents from the treated rats to a separate group of rats with acne to further assess the impact.
By using the Global Acne Grading System to evaluate the patients, we found that omega-3 fatty acids improved the diversity of gut microbiota and positively influenced the strains of bacteria present. This resulted in decreased inflammation and fewer comedones in rats, while in patients, we noticed an increase in beneficial gut bacteria that produce butyric acid and an overall improvement in acne severity.
Our findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in alleviating acne symptoms by modifying gut bacteria, but more research is needed to isolate their specific effects from other treatments like isotretinoin.
Additionally, we worked with rats that had an acne model. We treated these rats with isotretinoin, omega-3 fatty acids, or a combination of both. Afterward, we transferred the colonic contents from the treated rats to a separate group of rats with acne to further assess the impact.
By using the Global Acne Grading System to evaluate the patients, we found that omega-3 fatty acids improved the diversity of gut microbiota and positively influenced the strains of bacteria present. This resulted in decreased inflammation and fewer comedones in rats, while in patients, we noticed an increase in beneficial gut bacteria that produce butyric acid and an overall improvement in acne severity.
Our findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in alleviating acne symptoms by modifying gut bacteria, but more research is needed to isolate their specific effects from other treatments like isotretinoin.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 3 Reviews
7.7
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
2
Unusual breakouts
5 people found this helpful
I've been taking these vitamins for about a month. I cannot confirm if all results are due to the vitamins, but I had no menstrual cramps this month — a miracle! Unusually, I've also had a breakout of deep pimples on my face and back. I'm ceasing the vitamins to see if the acne will clear up.
Read More
6
Less intense acne
4 people found this helpful
I tried a different gummy vitamin to combat hair loss, but I ended up loving the Olly vitamin instead. My hair is healthier and grows nicely. Another review mentioned worsening cystic acne, but my experience has been the opposite: my cystic acne has become less inflamed and painful.
Read More
6
No worsened breakouts
13 people found this helpful
I finished a 90-count bottle, and nothing unusual happened! I have acne-prone skin, but these vitamins did not worsen my breakouts. I feel great with more energy than usual and the taste, being vitamins, is absolutely fine. Gummies are easier for me than large pills, so I’ll keep using these.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
No FAQs are available for this product and symptom.
References
- Chan H, Chan G, Santos J, Dee K, Co JK. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the efficacy and safety of lactoferrin with vitamin E and zinc as an oral therapy for mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Int J Dermatol. 2017;56:686. 10.1111/ijd.13607
- Sahni S, Krishan S, Palanimuthu D, Richardson DR. The use of iron chelators in biocidal compositions: evaluation of patent, WO2014059417A1. Expert Opin Ther Pat. 2015;25:367. 10.1517/13543776.2014.989215
- Mueller EA, Trapp S, Frentzel A, Kirch W, Brantl V. Efficacy and tolerability of oral lactoferrin supplementation in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: an exploratory study. Curr Med Res Opin. 2011;27:793. 10.1185/03007995.2011.557720
- Hou SX, Shi XC, Xiao Y, Liu XX, Zhang L, et al. Multifunctional mesoporous superparamagnetic Iron oxide-based nanocomposites for synergistic Photothermal/Fenton therapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Colloid Interface Sci. 2026;707:139674. 10.1016/j.jcis.2025.139674
- Kim BR, Kim G, Jin SP, Choi CW, Kim J, et al. The causal association between polyunsaturated fatty acids and acne: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Br J Dermatol. 2025. 10.1093/bjd/ljaf052
- Guertler A, Neu K, Lill D, Clanner-Engelshofen B, French LE, et al. Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23:3295. 10.1111/jocd.16434
- Algarin YA, Pulumati A, Jaalouk D, Tan J, Nouri K. The role of vitamins and nutrients in rosacea. Arch Dermatol Res. 2024;316:142. 10.1007/s00403-024-02895-4
- Guertler A, Fiedler T, Lill D, Kuna AC, Volsky A, et al. Deficit of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Acne Patients-A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study in a German Cohort. Life (Basel). 2024;14. 10.3390/life14040519
- Huang Y, Liu F, Lai J, Jiang S, Tan X, et al. The adjuvant treatment role of ω-3 fatty acids by regulating gut microbiota positively in the acne vulgaris. J Dermatolog Treat. 2024;35:2299107. 10.1080/09546634.2023.2299107
- Shields A, Ly S, Wafae B, Chang YF, Manjaly P, et al. Safety and Effectiveness of Oral Nutraceuticals for Treating Acne: A Systematic Review. JAMA Dermatol. 2023;159:1373. 10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.3949
- Gürtler A, Laurenz S. The impact of clinical nutrition on inflammatory skin diseases. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2022;20:185. 10.1111/ddg.14683
- Conforti C, Agozzino M, Emendato G, Fai A, Fichera F, et al. Acne and diet: a review. Int J Dermatol. 2022;61:930. 10.1111/ijd.15862
- Zainab Z, Malik NA, Obaid S, Malik S, Aftab K, et al. Effectiveness Of Oral Omega 3 In Reducing Mucocutaneous Side Effects Of Oral Isotretinoin In Patients With Acne Vulgaris. J Ayub Med Coll Abbottabad. 2021;33:60. PubMed
- Baldwin H, Tan J. Effects of Diet on Acne and Its Response to Treatment. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021;22:55. 10.1007/s40257-020-00542-y
- Thomsen BJ, Chow EY, Sapijaszko MJ. The Potential Uses of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dermatology: A Review. J Cutan Med Surg. 2020;24:481. 10.1177/1203475420929925
- Mirnezami M, Rahimi H. Is Oral Omega-3 Effective in Reducing Mucocutaneous Side Effects of Isotretinoin in Patients with Acne Vulgaris?. Dermatol Res Pract. 2018;2018:6974045. 10.1155/2018/6974045
- Aslan İ, Özcan F, Karaarslan T, Kıraç E, Aslan M. Decreased eicosapentaenoic acid levels in acne vulgaris reveals the presence of a proinflammatory state. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2017;128-129:1. 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2016.12.001
- Jung JY, Kwon HH, Hong JS, Yoon JY, Park MS, et al. Effect of dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid and gamma-linolenic acid on acne vulgaris: a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial. Acta Derm Venereol. 2014;94:521. 10.2340/00015555-1802
- Khayef G, Young J, Burns-Whitmore B, Spalding T. Effects of fish oil supplementation on inflammatory acne. Lipids Health Dis. 2012;11:165. 10.1186/1476-511X-11-165
- Rubin MG, Kim K, Logan AC. Acne vulgaris, mental health and omega-3 fatty acids: a report of cases. Lipids Health Dis. 2008;7:36. 10.1186/1476-511X-7-36
