Why Omega-3 EPA?

It is now known that inflammation is one of the very first events in the development of acne blemishes. Inflammation is at the root and not merely a consequence of acne. EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish is perhaps nature’s most powerful anti-inflammatory. In a study involving over 1000 teenagers, researchers found that those who consume the greatest amounts of fish and seafood have the lowest rates of every type of acne blemish – blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules and cysts. In 2003, researchers discovered that a specific inflammatory chemical (LTB4) turns on production of the oily, pore-blocking, sebum. This was exciting because this inflammatory chemical is under dietary control – omega-3 EPA can limit the production of this inflammatory chemical, and thereby reduce excess sebum production.

Why Green Tea EGCG?

Acne is a hormonally-driven disease, and one hormone, dihydrotestosterone (or DHT for short) is a major culprit. A recent study found that a synthetic drug capable of lowering DHT production is helpful in adult acne. EGCG is a naturally occurring chemical found in green tea. In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, EGCG has also been documented in research studies to lower DHT production.

Why Zinc?

Zinc levels have been shown to be low in the blood, hair, skin and nails of acne patients. Historically it is the one nutrient that has consistently been linked to acne. Zinc has important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in the human skin, and recently it was reported to address the hormonal aspects of acne. Studies using oral and/or topical zinc preparations have shown benefit in acne.

Why Selenium?

Much like zinc, levels of selenium have been shown to be low in acne. This is almost certainly due to a greater demand for this nutrient in acne. One particular enzyme (glutathione peroxidase) is hard at work in the skin, particularly in acne blemishes, yet this healing enzyme is completely dependant upon selenium for its function. Research with oral selenium supplementation has been shown to be helpful in acne.

Why Chromium?

The emerging studies that support a diet-acne connection have all suggested that keeping blood sugar and insulin levels in balance is extremely important. While this new research is convincing, the idea that blood sugar, insulin and acne are inter-related is not a new one. As long ago as the 1950s, researchers were referring to acne as possibly being “diabetes of the skin”. Studies have shown that chromium is an essential nutrient in keeping blood sugar and insulin levels in balance, and preliminary research has shown that oral chromium is beneficial in acne.

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