Top 7 Best Oral Probiotics To Treat Acne – Reviewed In 2020

Probiotics is the latest trend and most effective solution in treating acne. Most of the women focus only on external solutions that is why they always fail – because the problem is much deeper than you think.

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How Do Probiotics Help in Clearing Acne?

The root of acne problem is actually present in the gastrointestinal tract. This theory is also called as “Brain-Gut-Skin Connection”. Wondering how..? Here’s how the connection goes…

Unhealthy emotions (stress, depression and anxiety) -> disturb the GI tract function (gut bacteria imbalance) -> leading to a disruption in immunity -> this confuses the skin functionality -> finally triggering the inflammation (acne lesions).

Apart from emotion stress, this cycle can also be triggered by improper food habits – processed, packaged, junk, and fried foods, as they can disrupt the gut bacteria too. Probiotics balance the gut flora which improve the GI health. Thus, you can finally get rid of acne from inside.

Are Natural Probiotics Foods Not Enough..?

Natural probiotics like yogurt or fermented drinks don’t mention which strains and how many of the live cultures it contains. Without sufficient live bacteria cells and particular strains, you may not see much effect in treating acne. That is why probiotics supplements are recommended.

Which Probiotic Supplement is Good for Acne?

For purchasing a good quality probiotic supplement, you have to consider several factors like live bacteria cells, delay-release technology, number of strains and others. You can find a detailed explanation about them in our “Buying Guide”.

Below is the list of Top 10 Probiotic Supplement Brands for Acne which are trustworthy and effective.

A Detailed Assessment of Probiotic Supplements

1. Nutrition Now PB 8 Probiotics

Since 25 years, this brand has been providing high quality probiotics. It has helped millions of people to improve their digestive health and support immune function.

We have picked up this product as our first priority because of the high of the bacterial strains, packaging quality and other amazing factors. And moreover it is also most preferred by many doctors and physicians.

This probiotic supplement contains a blend of 8 bacterial strains that include Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. longum, B. lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, and L. salivarus. Each capsule contains over 14 billion live colony forming units which are highly effective in colonizing the intestines.

Nutrition Now PB8 probiotic capsules also contains prebiotic called inulin which helps the probiotics in flourishing their colonies in the intestines. The complete ingredient blend this supplement more effective than others.

The size of the capsule is average so you don’t find much problem in swallowing them. Capsules are packaged in a BPA free bottle. Once opened, the bottle should be refrigerated in order to maintain the potency. As it is not shelf-stable, we don’t recommend taking it with you while travelling to another place.

The outer shell of the capsule is made up of either gelatin or vegetable cellulose. You can choose among them based on your food priorities.  This supplement does not contain gluten, milk, wheat, eggs, peanuts or tree nuts so it is allergy friendly.

Note: This is specifically designed for adults only. So, avoid giving it to children.

Positives:

• 14 billion CFU and 8 bacterial strains.
• Contains prebiotics (inulin).
• Effective in treating acne and supporting immune system.
• The brand has 25 years of excellence.

Negatives:

• The bottle has to be refrigerated once opened.
• Can lead to diarrhea initially as a die-off effect.

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2. Essential Formulas Dr.Ohhira’s Probiotics

This supplement has chosen to be second in our list because of its natural probiotic blend which has been tested and proven to be effective. This blend contains a unique combination of probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics. The efficiency of this blend is backed by over 30 years of international studies and research.

The most unique thing about this product is that – the probiotics are not cultured or grown in a laboratory. Probiotics are collected by fermenting spring water, fruits and vegetables for 3 years. A Japanese fermentation process is used for making highly potent and strongest bacterial strains.

This supplement contains 12 bacterial strains which include Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, streptococcus thermopilus and Enterococcus faecalis TH10. Three year fermentation process encourages the survival of strongest bacteria strains. So, the bacterial strains can stay potent even if not refrigerated.

As already mentioned, it also contains prebiotics which are non-digestive carbohydrates. They are perfect food for probiotics bacteria so they help in maintaining the potency of the bacteria and encourage their ability to sustain its growth in the intestines.

The post-biotics present in the supplement are produced by probiotic strains during the 3 year fermentation. They contains many essential nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, short-chain fatty acids, immune enhancing compounds, cell signaling compounds and other substances which help in improving the pH of the colon.

This unique combination helps in…

• Improving digestion.
• Supporting immune system.
• Improves body’s natural detoxification process.
• Maintains healthy cholesterol levels.
• Assists in weight and appetite management.

As all these help in improving overall gut health, it will automatically reflect on your skin and acne will be gradually cleared.

This supplement doesn’t contain artificial additives, chemical preservation, animal-by products, pesticides, colors, flavors and herbicides. They are 100% vegetarian and Non-GMO. As it is hypoallergenic, it doesn’t contain any gluten or dairy. The manufacturer provides guarantee that this supplement is free from soil-based organisms.

Positives:

• Probiotics made from natural ingredients and fermentation.
• Unique combination of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics.
• Non-GMO and 100% vegetarian.
• 12 Strongest bacterial strains.
• Free of additives, coloring and flavoring.
• It doesn’t contain gluten or dairy.

Negatives:

• Not suitable for people who suffer with chronic fatigue.

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3. Prescript-Assist Probiotic and Prebiotic

Unlike other probiotic supplements in this list, prescript-assist is different and unique – because these probiotics strains are actually spore-forming bacteria. The spores of these bacteria actually attach to the intestine walls and multiply.

When it comes to potency, soil based bacteria are much stable to stomach acid than lactic acid. They don’t any special packaging system to withstand the stomach acid. Lactic acid are sensitive to heat so if they get exposed to high temperature then they die. However, soil-based based probiotics are not sensitive to temperature changes, light and perspiration. So, you don’t have to refrigerate in order to keep the bacteria potent.

This supplement contains 28 different viable soil-based bacterial strains. This unique combination is formulated after 5 years clinical testing and development. Each capsule contains 600mg of live micro-organisms. These soil-based species are inherently resilient – several tests have proven that they are 95% viable even after getting exposed to 98F+.

It is very effective in maintaining the GI tract health, improving immune system, stabilizing gut mucosal barrier and supporting assimilation of nutrients in the gut.

The manufacturer recommends to take 1 or 2 capsules per day or as prescribed by the doctor. These supplements do not contain corn, soybeans, peanuts, treenuts, shellfish, artificial flavors, colors, animal derivatives, sugar or yeast.

Positives:

• Soil-based spore-forming bacteria.
• Strongest 28 bacteria strains.
• Resistant to heat, light and perspiration.
• Doesn’t contain dairy, seeds, nuts or other allergens.
• 100% vegetarian.
• Can withstand stomach acid.

Negatives:

• It has a nasty smell.

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4. Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra Probiotic Formula

Garden of Life has been providing high quality probiotic supplement since many years. The Primal Defense Ultra Probiotic formula is one of the highly prescribed and trusted supplements among their products.

It contains 13 bacterial species that include lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. Each capsule contains 15 billion live bacterial cells. Apart that, this supplement also contains HSOs (Homeostatic Soil Organisms and Saccharomyces boulardii). As per many clinical studies, S.Boulardii has shown positive effects on being antitoxin and anti-inflammatory.

As per the manufacturer, this product is shelf stable which means that you don’t have to refrigerate it for maintaining the potency of bacteria. So, you can take it with you wherever you travel.  The capsule can survive the harsh stomach acid and reach the intestines where the probiotics will start to flourish.

This supplement doesn’t contain gluten and other allergenic ingredients. As it is completely vegetarian, it is suitable for people with restricted diet.

Note: This supplement is not suitable for children. Even adults, should take it after consulting a physician.

Positives:

• Contains 13 beneficial species
• Contains Soil based probiotics B. subtilis and S. boulardii
• Delivers 15 billion CFU in a 3 capsule serving
• 100%Gluten-free and vegetarian supplement
• Whole food probiotic supplement.
• Refrigeration not required.

Negatives:

• It may cause temporary “die-off” symptoms such as acne, acidic smell in urine, etc.

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5. Renew Life Ultimate Flora Probiotic

For nearly 20 years, Renew Life has pioneered in providing superior-quality digestive wellness supplements. Among their products, Ultimate Flora has grabbed a place in our best probiotic supplements list – because of its highly potent bacterial strains and potent formula.

It contains 10 carefully selected bacterial strains which include Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. These strains are clinically tested to be effective in restoring the digestive health and support immune system. Each capsule has 50 billion live colony forming units which are very effective in flourishing the intestines.

Its special delayed-release formula can withstand the harsh stomach conditions and release the probiotics only in the intestines. It is not shelf stable, so you have to refrigerate it once the bottle is opened. If not then the bacterial strains will die as they are sensitive to light and heat.

This supplement doesn’t contain any unnecessary fillings, flavors, colors and ingredients. It is completely free from gluten, nut, wheat and egg. The capsule is made of vegetable cellulose, so the supplement is vegetarian friendly.

Note: This supplement is not intended for kids and children.

Positives:

• High potency probiotic supplement.
• Contains 10 strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species.
• Each capsule has 50 billion live cultures.
• Gluten and dairy-free formula.
• Delayed release capsule.

Negatives:

• The supplement has to be refrigerated once the seal is opened.

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6. Probiotic Pearls Acidophilus

Being a pioneer in science-based formulas, Enzymatic Therapy is one of the most prescribed brands for health based supplements. They manufacture all their products in GMP certified, kosher certified and Parve manufacturing facilities – which makes them even more trustworthy.

It contains 2 bacterial strains – Lactobacilli acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum. These strains clinically proven to improve digestion, relieve constipation and defend urinary tract infections.

Usually, probiotics are very sensitive to moisture, oxygen and heat. In order to make their supplement highly potent and maintain it till expiration, an advanced triple layer technology is used. It is used as the outer shell of the capsule. It ensures the strains can withstand any harsh conditions that include heat, moisture and even stomach acid.

Each tablet contains 1 billion live bacteria cells which are good enough to colonize the intestines. As per the manufacturer, these cells will be present in a suspended state within the capsule. Once they reach the intestines, they get activated for colonization.

This product doesn’t require refrigeration. This supplement doesn’t contain sugar, preservations, artificial colors or additional ingredients.

Note: If you are taking prescription drugs, then consult your medical professional before taking these capsules. This product is not suitable for children. The dosage can be taken with or without food.

Positives:

• 6 bacterial strains – 2 lactobacillus and 4 bifidobacterium.
• Advanced triple layer soft gel.
• Supports body’s immune system.
• Maximum survival capacity and delivery to intestines.
• Refrigeration not required.

Negatives

• Contains fish (tilapia) gelatin. So not suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
• Contains soy, wheat, gluten and trace amounts of dairy.

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7. Now Probiotics-10

Now Foods is one of the largest and best selling supplement brand in the world. Among them Now Probiotics-10 is considered to be more effective.

This supplement contians 25 billion CFU per serving and 10 probiotic strains that include Lactobacillus and Bididobacterium and streptococcus thermophiles. Apart from that it also contains FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) that support the growth of the probiotics in the gut.

This capsule is acid-resistant so it doesn’t rupture in the stomach acid and reaches the intestines safely. It naturally colonizes the human GI tract, supports healthy digestion and helps to maintain the balance of gut flora.

This is a 100% vegetarian/vegan supplement that is free from dairy, wheat and gluten which makes it suitable even for people with restrictive diets.

Once opened, you have to refrigerate this supplement in order to maintain the potency of the bacterial strains. As per manufacturer guidelines, you should avoid storing this supplement in bathroom and kitchen as the bacterial strains are sensitive to heat and moisture.

Positives:

• Provides 25 billion CFU per serving.
• Contains 10 highly potent bacterial strains.
• 100% vegetarian/vegan supplement.
• Free from dairy, soy and gluten.
• Made in GMP certified facility.

Negatives:

• Needs refrigeration.

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How Exactly Does Gut Health Affect Skin?

Here is the theory behind, why an unhealthy gut ultimately leads to acne formation – stress alone or along with unhealthy foods (processed, packaged, junk) cause slow digestion and imbalance in the gut flora. Eventually, this situation results in leaky gut syndrome which means that the gut lining leaks toxins into our blood stream. This causes inflammation in skin leading to many issues like acne, rosacea and others.

Scientific Proofs that Claim Probiotics are Effective for Treating Acne:

• As per a Korean study, 56 patients were given lactobacillus-fermented dairy beverage daily. After certain periods of time, they observed an effective reduction in total lesion count and oil production. (1)
• Another study conducted in Italy – a group of acne and rosacea patients were taken for trial. Half of them were given probiotic supplement and another half of them were not. People who received probiotic treatment experienced acne and rosacea clearing.

How to Choose Best Probiotic Supplement for Treating Acne?

It can be a daunting task to choose the right one as the market is filled with several choices that vary in strains, price and other factors. In order to make your work easy, we have listed down important factors to consider with a detailed explanation.

1. Combination of Different Strains

Probiotics include a diverse range of bacterial strains. Each of these bacterial strains play certain role in body functioning. While choosing a probiotic supplement for certain issue, make sure the strains it contains are beneficial in terms of treating that particular issue. When it comes to acne – lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium longum, streptococcus salivarius, and enterococcus faecalis are some of the strains that are beneficial.

2. Number of Live Cultures

This is measured in CFU’s (colony forming units). Best probiotic supplement should contain at least 1 billion live cultures. Anything less than that is not helpful as they cannot effectively re-colonize the intestines. The more the number, the better and effective the supplement will be.

3. Delay-Rupture Capsules

The probiotic supplement should be capable enough to withstand the harsh acid present in the stomach and reach the intestines. That is why, you have to check whether the supplement has delay-rupture feature. If not then it can be a total waste to take them.

4. Hypo-allergenic

Make sure the supplement you choose doesn’t contain any ingredients that you are allergic. Some of the common allergenic ingredients are soy, gluten, egg, dairy and others.

5. Manufacturing Conditions

Supplements that are manufactured in a facility approved by FDA and GMP regulations represent high quality. Such products are more trustworthy and efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it Possible to Clear Acne Overnight with Probiotics?

Though probiotics are beneficial in treating acne, you cannot see the overnight result. You have to stick to a regular schedule of taking them. For quick results, you have to eat proper nutritional diet, avoid unhealthy foods, drink plenty of water and exercise daily.

2. How Much Time Does It Take to Treat Acne with Probiotics?

As per many studies, probiotics have shown improvement after taking them regularly for 12 weeks. You may see an improvement before this time period as well depending on your food intake and health. However, we recommend trying it for at least 1 or 2 months before giving up.

3. Do Probiotics Cause Acne?

Usually, they don’t cause acne. However, if you are allergic to dairy products then you experience allergic reaction in the form of acne. And in some cases, people can experience aggravation of acne for 1 or 2 weeks initially after taking probiotic supplements for acne. This can be caused due to die-off symptoms. However, you will start noticing an improvement in the condition within 1 or 2 weeks.

4. Can We Use Probiotics for Baby Acne?

Probiotics can helps in treating many baby skin issues like acne, eczema, cradle cap and others. So, you can give them to your baby. However, make sure you don’t give adult probiotics to babies as they digestive system is still delicate. None of the above probiotic products are recommendable for babies. We recommend purchasing probiotics that are specially formulated for delicate baby tummies.

Conclusion

As per many studies, it is clear that probiotics are beneficial in treating acne. So, we recommend taking them regularly to clear those nasty and embarrassing acne lesions. They are also help in improving your immune system and overall health too.

Not every probiotic supplement present in the market is formulated to be same. So, make sure to research enough before purchasing one for you. We have provided enough information in our buying guide.

As per our choice, “Nutrition Now PB 8 Probiotics” is the best and most preferred one – because of its fidelity, manufacturing process, packaging guidelines and highly potent bacterial strains.

Which one is your choice? Do you have any queries related to probiotics? Then write to us in the comments section below. We will answer them as soon as possible.