Do you suffer from acne breakouts? If so, you're not alone. Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually.

While various factors may trigger acne, including hormonal, dietary, and environmental factors, the impact of gut health should also be a major consideration.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the relationship between optimal gut health and acne. We'll discuss what causes acne and how oral probiotics can help treat it. We'll also list the best probiotics for acne-prone skin!

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What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages. It is caused by the skin becoming inflamed which is usually the result of overactive sebaceous glands that produce too much sebum. Sebum is a natural oil that helps to keep the skin lubricated, but when it's produced in excess it can block pores which causes inflammation and even infection. Many different factors can contribute to the development of acne, characterized by the appearance of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the skin.

  • Hormonal Changes- During puberty, increased levels of hormones can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
  • Stress- When we are under stress, our bodies produce more of the hormone cortisol, which can trigger inflammation and lead to breakouts.
  • Medication- Acne can also be caused by certain medications, such as steroids or birth control pills.
  • Medical Conditions- In some cases, it may be due to an underlying medical condition, such as polycystic ovary syndrome or adrenal gland disorders.
  • Gut Dysbiosis- When your gut bacteria is imbalanced, you may experience acne or other related skin conditions. This imbalance, called dysbiosis, can mean that you have too many bad bacteria, not enough good bacteria, or a mix of the two. There is more and more research being conducted on the connection between the skin microbiome and the gut, known as the gut-skin axis. This emerging area of study is beginning to shed light on how our gut health can impact dermatologic conditions.

Fortunately, there are many different treatment options available for those who are struggling with acne-prone skin. With the help of a dermatologist, it is possible to find a plan that will work for you.

A close up view of blue stained gut microbiota as viewed through a microscope on a pink, blue, and green blurred background.

Gut Health & Acne

Although various factors may cause acne blemishes, gut health is an important factor to consider. It is now widely accepted that the gut is home to a vast number of microbes, many of which are essential for our health. However, when the gut microbiome is out of balance, it can lead to several problems including inflammation, which can in turn cause or exacerbate acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Therefore, supporting intestinal health should be an important part of any acne self-care routine. Oral probiotics, prebiotics and other supplements that promote a healthy gut microbiome can help to reduce inflammation and support healthy skin.

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How Probiotic Supplements Help

Some research suggests that acne may be linked to an imbalance of gut bacteria. The theory is that probiotic supplements can help replenish good bacteria and restore a healthy balance in the gut, which may help reduce acne. Studies on acne probiotics have had mixed results, but some have found that certain probiotic strains may help reduce acne severity and promote healing. Probiotics are generally considered safe, but it's always best to speak with a doctor before taking them, especially if you have a health condition. If you're considering taking oral probiotics for acne, remember that they won't work for everyone and they won't work immediately. Probiotics are one part of an acne treatment plan that may also include cleansers, topical treatments, oral medications, and lifestyle changes.

A collage of acne probiotic bottles including the following brands: HUM; Codeage; Love Wellness; Clear-Biotic+; & DrFormulas Dermtella.

Our List of Mentions

Acne is a common skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender.

Not only does acne cause physical discomfort, but it can also lead to emotional distress and low self-esteem.

A probiotic supplement may be able to help fight acne by restoring the balance of good and harmful bacteria on the skin.

That's why we've put together a list of the best probiotics for acne-prone skin to help you find the one that's right for you. We'll also tell you why we love each product and where to find it!

We mention helpful products that we feel are useful for our readers. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases from the links on this page if you decide to purchase something, at no cost to you. All opinions in this article are our own and reviews have been edited for length and clarity.

Top Mention

1. Best Overall

HUM Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic

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Why We Mention It

Are you looking for a way to improve your gut health and achieve clear skin? Look no further than HUM Nutrition's Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic. This unique blend of probiotics and prebiotics is formulated to support intestinal health and provide clear skin in one convenient capsule.

The addition of konjac root provides prebiotic support to balance gut flora and encourage healthy digestion. Simply take two capsules daily to experience the benefits.

Why suffer from poor gut health and breakouts when you can have the best of both worlds with Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic? Try it today and see the difference!

What We Should Mention

This unique probiotic formula is designed to support intestinal health and balance the skin microbiome for healthy, glowing skin. This vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO dietary supplement includes lactobacillus rhamnosus and other probiotic strains to help reduce breakouts and promote healthy digestion. Prebiotic konjac root feeds good bacteria to promote a healthy digestive tract, while 60 capsules in each bottle provide convenient, daily support. Take 2 capsules at any time, with or without food.


2. Best All-In-One Probiotic

Codeage Skin Probiotic

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Why We Mention It

Looking for an all-in-one probiotic supplement to support your skin? Codeage Skin Probiotic has you covered! This advanced formula features 19 strains of probiotics with 50 Billion CFUs per serving, plus prebiotics and a blend of herbs and phytoceramides. It's designed for all skin types and for both women and men. And best of all, no refrigeration is required! So why wait? Get your hands on Codeage Skin Probiotic today!

What We Should Mention

Your skin is your body's largest organ, and it's important to take care of it from the inside out. Probiotics are good bacteria that help keep your gut and digestive system healthy, and research shows they can also promote healthy skin. Codeage Skin Probiotic is a probiotic supplement that also provides prebiotics and phytoceramides to help support optimal skin health. Simply take 2 capsules once daily with or without food to enjoy the benefits of this vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO formula. Made in the USA in a cGMP-certified facility, Codeage Skin Probiotic is third party tested for safety and quality. This formula also includes vitamin C from acerola cherry to complete this skin and gut supplement. Give your skin the nourishment it needs to look its best with Codeage Skin Probiotic.


3. Best Gluten-Free Option

Love Wellness Clear Skin Probiotics

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Why We Mention It

Are you struggling with breakouts and blemishes? Meet your new best friend: Love Wellness Clear Skin Probiotics. This powerful probiotic formula contains 2 billion CFUs of probiotics, plus zinc and chaste tree to help clear acne and promote healthy skin.

But that's not all. Clear Skin Probiotics can also help improve redness and dryness, for a complexion that looks and feels amazing. So whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or more stubborn acne, Clear Skin Probiotics can help you get your glow back.

Don't let breakouts ruin your day - or your confidence. Grab a bottle of Love Wellness Clear Skin Probiotics and start your journey to clearer, healthier skin today.

What We Should Mention

Take your skin care to the next level with Love Wellness Clear Skin Probiotics. These clean, gluten- and dairy-free capsules are easy to take on the go and provide your system with zinc, chaste tree berry, and the unique probiotic Morinaga BB536®. Just take one capsule per day with or without food for best results - no refrigeration required! If you have trouble swallowing pills, you can also open the capsule and mix it into your favorite beverage. Get better-looking skin from the inside out with Clear Skin Probiotics!


4. Best For Women

Clear-Biotic+ Complete Skincare Complex

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Why We Mention It

Looking for a natural and effective way to combat hormonal acne? Clear-Biotic+ is your answer! This complete skincare complex contains powerful probiotics that work to improve the healthy bacteria on your skin, helping to reduce breakouts and blemishes. Loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and B2, Clear-Biotic+ also helps to eliminate facial imperfections, giving you the clear, radiant skin you deserve!

What We Should Mention

The Clear-Biotic+ Complete Skincare Complex is a powerful formula designed to help fight acne and promote clear skin. The unique blend of ingredients helps to control sebum production, reduce clogged pores, and improve the appearance of acne scars. Vitamins A, C, and E work together to boost collagen production and support the skin's natural barrier function. Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus acidophilus help to reduce inflammation and keep the skin balanced. This product is safe for adults but should not be used if pregnant or nursing. Results will vary depending on the individual.


Honorable Mention

5. Best For Hormonal Acne

DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support

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Why We Mention It

Looking for a way to fight acne from the inside out? DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support is here to help! This 4-in-1 formula provides probiotics, essential nutrients, and herbal extracts to promote healthier skin.

The 23 different probiotics in DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support help restore digestive enzymes and boost your immune system, while the essential nutrients and herbal extracts work to soothe and nourish the skin. With regular use, you'll notice a reduction in acne breakouts and an overall improvement in your skin's appearance.

Don't let acne get you down - try DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support today!

What We Should Mention

This unique formula includes Nexabiotic Probiotics with the benefits of Turmeric, DIM, and Fish Oil - all ingredients that have been shown by research to support healthier.

This supplement is manufactured in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) facility in the USA, so you can be sure that it is made with only the highest quality standards. Plus, it is made under the National Sanitation Foundation guidelines for your safety and peace of mind.

Directions are simple - just take one packet per day, up to two if needed. With regular use, you'll notice a difference in your skin's appearance and overall health. Give DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support a try today!

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Tips Worth Mentioning

Probiotics For Acne (User Guide)

We all know that probiotics are important for intestinal health, but what about our skin? Can a probiotic supplement help clear acne and other skin problems?

Most people don't think of probiotics as a way to improve their skin health, but research shows that they can be an effective treatment for acne and other skin problems.

Not only are probiotics good for your intestinal health, but they can also boost skin health. In this user guide, we will list the top 6 tips by experts for healthier skin and a healthy gut.

Six Ways to Keep Your Skin and Gut Healthy

  1. Watch What You Eat – The typical Western diet has been linked with acne. A diet high in fat, and sugar, and low in fiber can lead to inflammation and an increase in sebum production, both of which are associated with the development of acne. To help reduce the risk of developing acne, consider incorporating more whole foods into your diet. Foods like fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation, while wholegrains are a good source of fiber, which helps to regulate sebum production. By making simple dietary changes, you can achieve clear and healthy skin while reducing your risk of developing acne.
  2. Drink More Water – Hydration is essential for many aspects of health, including bowel regularity, a healthier gut, and healthy skin. When the body is properly hydrated, the digestive system works more efficiently, preventing constipation and other digestive problems. Additionally, proper hydration helps to keep the gut lining healthy and can reduce inflammation. Water is also necessary for keeping skin hydrated and free from toxins. Adequate hydration leads to plumper, smoother skin with fewer wrinkles. It also helps to flush out impurities and reduce the risk of acne breakouts. For optimal health, it is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. So next time you reach for a glass of water, remember that you're not just quenching your thirst - you're also doing your body a favor!
  3. Break a Sweat – Exercise has long been known to have numerous benefits for the body, including improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength, and better weight management. But exercise can also be beneficial for the skin. Research has shown that exercise can improve overall skin health by increasing blood flow and the excretion of waste products in sweat. Exercise has also been shown to reduce skin deterioration associated with aging. This is likely because exercise promotes the production of collagen, the most abundant protein in the body that helps to keep skin looking young and elastic. So, if you're looking to keep your skin looking its best, consider adding some exercise to your daily routine.
  4. Use Yogurt as a Face Mask – Beauty experts have long sworn by the benefits of yogurt face masks. Live yogurt is rich in Lactobacilli probiotic bacteria, which are known to have many skin benefits. When applied directly to the face, yogurt can help to soothe and hydrate the skin. It can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Yogurt face masks are typically left on for 10 to 15 minutes, after which they are rinsed off with warm water. For best results, beauty experts recommend using a live yogurt that has not been heat-treated or pasteurized.
  5. Try Fermented Foods – Anybody who enjoys foods like kimchi, tempeh, kombucha, and sauerkraut is ahead of the game when it comes to intestinal health. That's because these are all excellent, gut-healthy foods that help your digestive system thrive. In addition to the fact that these foods are often made from nutrient-dense plant-based ingredients like soybeans, cabbage, and tea, they also contain commensal microbes. These helpful little organisms promote a diverse and healthy gut microbiome. Many of these foods offer multiple health benefits. Here are a few of the best options from realsimple.com. So if you're looking to improve your intestinal health, including more fermented foods in your diet is a great place to start.
  6. Try a Probiotic Supplement – Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to those found naturally in the human gut microbiome. They have been shown to provide a range of health benefits, including improved digestion, a stronger immune system, and better skin health. Probiotics work by optimizing gut health, which in turn can help to improve the appearance of the skin. The two most commonly used strains of probiotics to support skin health are Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 and Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM ®. A daily probiotic can help to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and optimizing intestinal health.
We recommend that you do not solely rely on the information presented and that you always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product. For additional information about a product, please contact the manufacturer. Content on this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute for advice given by a physician, pharmacist, or other licensed healthcare professional. You should not use this information for self-diagnosis or for treating a health problem or disease. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition
Close up of a young woman looking into a mirror with a painful expression, using both index fingers to pop a pimple on her cheek.

Did We Mention

Best Probiotic For Acne FAQs?

You might be wondering if using probiotics for acne is the right choice for you.

Acne can be an embarrassing and frustrating problem to deal with, but you're not alone.

Millions of people suffer from acne, and many of them have found relief by using probiotics. In this buyer's guide, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about probiotics and acne.

What Probiotics Are Best For Acne?

The best probiotic for acne is one that contains Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, two types of bacteria that are thought to help improve skin health. You can find probiotic supplements that contain these beneficial bacteria, or you can eat yogurt or other foods that contain them

Do Probiotics Help With Acne?

Yes, probiotic supplements help to treat acne since their main function/benefit for the body is to promote healthy intestinal flora. A healthy gut flora is essential for overall health and can help improve a wide array of health issues, including acne.

How Long Do Probiotics Take To Work For Acne?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of time it takes for probiotics to work will vary from person to person. However, most people will start to feel some benefits within 2 to 3 weeks of taking probiotics.

Can Too Much Probiotics Cause Acne?

Some people think that probiotics can cause acne, but there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. In fact, some research suggests that probiotics may help reduce the occurrence of acne.

It's possible that consuming too many probiotics could lead to an imbalance in the gut flora, which could then lead to acne breakouts. It's also possible that people who are prone to acne may experience a worsening of their condition when they start taking probiotics. However, more research is needed to determine whether or not probiotics actually cause acne.

Does Acne Start In The Gut?

There is some evidence that suggests a connection between the gut and skin health, and some experts believe that gut imbalance (such as too much bad bacteria and not enough good bacteria) may contribute to acne.

However, there is currently no definitive proof that this is indeed the case. More research is needed to determine whether or not there is a link between the gut and overall skin health, and if so, what specific role the gut may play in causing acne.

Which Vitamin Helps With Acne?

Many vitamins help with acne, but some of the most important ones are vitamins A, D, zinc, and vitamin E.

Vitamin A is important for overall skin health and preventing breakouts. Vitamin D is also essential for clear skin, as it helps to regulate the production of sebum (a natural oil that can clog pores and lead to acne). Zinc plays a role in reducing inflammation, which can aggravate acne lesions. And finally, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals and environmental toxins.

What Are The Signs That Probiotics Are Working?

There are many signs that probiotics are working, but some of the most common ones include an improvement in digestion, a reduction in gas and bloating, and better skin health. Probiotics can also help to regulate the body's immune system, which can lead to fewer sick days and a reduced risk of certain infections. Additionally, probiotics may increase energy levels and improve moods.

How Do You Treat Hormonal Acne?

There are a few different ways to treat hormonal acne. The most important thing is to figure out what the underlying cause is by your physician and address that. For example, if your acne is caused by too much testosterone, then you would want to use acne treatments that helps lower testosterone levels.

Some common treatments for hormonal acne include:

  • Birth control pills: Birth control pills help regulate hormone levels and can be effective in treating hormonal acne.
  • Spironolactone: Spironolactone is a medication that helps lower testosterone levels and can help treat hormonal acne.
  • Metformin: Metformin is a medication that helps improve insulin resistance and can help treat hormonal acne.

Who Should Not Take Probiotics?

People with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems should not take probiotics. Children are also more susceptible to probiotic side effects, so they should only take probiotics under the guidance of a pediatrician. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should also speak with a healthcare professional before taking probiotics.

Should You Take A Probiotic Every Day?

Yes, probiotics are safe to take every day and they are usually recommended. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that line your digestive tract and help keep you healthy. They can be helpful in treating or preventing a number of health problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and Crohn's disease.

Probiotics can also boost your immune system, help you lose weight, and improve your skin health. Most probiotics come in the form of a pill or capsule that you swallow, but they can also be found in some food products, such as yogurt and kefir.

What Causes Cheek Acne?

Acne on your cheeks can be caused by the same things that cause acne anywhere else on your skin - excess oil production, dead skin cells, and bacteria. However, since the skin on your cheeks is thinner than the skin on other parts of your body, it's more susceptible to inflammation and can be more sensitive to environmental irritants.

Can Probiotics Help Hormonal Imbalance?

Probiotics can help balance female hormones – including the thyroid – and fertility by balancing gut bacteria. The gut bacteria play a huge role in hormone production and balance, as well as digestion and absorption of food. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can lead to all sorts of problems like constipation, diarrhea, IBS, yeast infections, and even hormonal imbalance. Probiotics can help restore bacterial balance in the gut and improve overall health.

Is Zinc Good For Acne?

Zinc is an essential mineral that is important for many different functions in the body, including wound healing, protein synthesis, and reproduction. Zinc also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies have shown that the use of zinc may be helpful in acne treatments, possibly due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Close up of a happy woman with clear & healthy skin smiling while posing in a mirror with her head turned to the right.

The Final Mention

Now that you know everything there is to know about the benefits of probiotics for acne, it’s time to make your decision. And we’ve made that decision easy for you by narrowing down Our List of Mentions to the top 5 picks. So what are you waiting for? Try one of these acne probiotics today and see your skin transform before your very eyes!

Thank You For Reading- We Hope You Found Exactly What You Were Looking For!

#1 Best Overall: HUM Skin Squad Pre+Probiotic

#2 Best All-In-One Probiotic: Codeage Skin Probiotic

#3 Best Gluten-Free Option: Love Wellness Clear Skin Probiotics

#4 Best For Women: Clear-Biotic+ Complete Skincare Complex

#5 Best For Hormonal Acne: DrFormulas Dermtella Clear Skin Support

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