Protocol · Dermatological
Acne Vulgaris Protocol
Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) and Zinc are the core of this stack, with 2 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Acne Vulgaris.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
4 supplements · 1 graded · 1 graded A · 3 confirmed studies
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) | Amount listed: 750–1,500 mg daily (or 4% topical) | Reduces sebum production, decreases inflammation via NF-κB inhibition, and strengthens skin barrier
| Grade A for Acne Symptoms3 studies · 331 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 30–45 mg daily (gluconate or picolinate) | Inhibits P. acnes growth, reduces inflammation, and decreases keratinocyte proliferation
| Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Zinc (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Probiotics | Amount listed: 10–20 billion CFU daily (Lactobacillus strains) | Modulates gut-skin axis, reduces systemic inflammation, and may decrease sebum production | Not graded yet | ||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2 g EPA/DHA daily | EPA reduces inflammatory prostaglandins and may decrease androgen-stimulated sebum production | Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Omega-3 Fatty Acids (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
The supplement in this protocol graded A or B. Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade A
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells, creating an environment where Propionibacterium acnes bacteria thrive. This triggers inflammation, resulting in pimples, blackheads, and cysts. Hormones (especially androgens) increase sebum production, which is why acne often worsens during puberty.
- Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) works on multiple fronts: it reduces sebum production, calms inflammation by blocking NF-κB signaling, and strengthens the skin barrier. Studies show it's as effective as topical antibiotics for inflammatory acne, without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
- Zinc has direct antibacterial effects against P. acnes and reduces the inflammatory response. It also helps regulate sebum production and skin cell turnover. Studies show oral zinc is nearly as effective as antibiotics for moderate acne.
- Probiotics address the gut-skin connection. Poor gut health increases systemic inflammation that can manifest as skin problems. Certain Lactobacillus strains have been shown to reduce acne lesion counts.
- Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammatory markers and may help balance the effects of omega-6 fatty acids that promote inflammation. Some evidence suggests they can decrease sebum production.
Expected timeline: Zinc and nicotinamide show improvement in 4-8 weeks. Probiotics may take 8-12 weeks. Full clearing typically takes 3-4 months of consistent use.