Top 5 Best Krill Oil Supplements To Treat Acne

As everyone is aware – most of the acne issues are actually caused by hormonal imbalance. Topical application can only be a temporary solution. For clearing up acne, you need something that fights off the root cause.

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In medical world, krill oil has been proven to be a remarkable solution for many health and beauty issues, especially hormonal acne.

Why Krill Oil Is so Effective?

Krill oil is actually extracted from tiny crustaceans (krill) that are similar to shrimp. Krill oil has high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids than normal fish oil. And moreover as they live only in Antarctica Ocean (less contaminated), they are free from mercury and other toxins.

As per a research in South Korea, taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been proven to reduce acne (caused by inflammation) by 42%. (1) In another study conducted on animals, it is shown that DHA and EPA (two omega-3 fatty acid types) present in krill oil have blocked specific molecule that contributes to swelling. This ultimately helps in treating skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. (2)

However, in order to achieve effective results, you have to invest in high-quality krill oil supplements. To help you out choose the best one, we have mentioned certain factors to consider in our “Buying Guide”. Moving further, we have also researched and picked up the best below…

List of Best Krill Oil Supplements for Acne: 2020 Review

Among the listed krill oil supplement, “Viva Naturals Krill Oil” has grabbed the first position because of its quality of the ingredients, extraction and capsule sealing features. Though some of the other products have high omega-3 content, as they don’t have the capsule sealing the amount of omega-3 content absorbed by our body is not clearing known. The capsule sealing helps to open the capsule only in the intestines to improve the absorption of the krill oil.

“Though this supplement can be a bit pricey, it is bang for the buck”

1. Viva Naturals Krill Oil

Viva Naturals Krill Oil has taken the first position in our list because of its high concentration of omega-3, EPA, DHA and phospholipids and astaxanthin. Apart from clearing acne, it is also helpful in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, keep the joints flexible, improve bone health and supply enough DHA your brain needs.

The powerful antioxidant known as astaxanthin fights free radical damage responsible for acne and other health issues. This supplement contains 1.6 mg of astaxanthin. The krill oil present in this supplement is in phospholipid form which can be easily absorbed than other fish oils.

The innovative capliques capsules are designed with a seal band around the center in order to keep the oil fresh and free of contaminants. It also helps to avoid fishy burps or after taste. In order to keep the nutrients intact, the krill oil is frozen after harvesting. The oil is extracted without the use of hexanes, bleaching agents and refinement methods.

The International Krill Oil standards program certified the purity of Viva Health Krill Oil with 5 stars. A third party test is performed on every batch to ensure the krill oil is free of heavy metals and impurities.

Pros:

• High concentration of omega-3.
• Better absorption than others.
• Unique extraction process without using refinements and chemicals.
• Special capsule seal cuts down fishy burps.
• Sustainably harvested.
• IKOS certified with 5 stars for purity.
• Apart from treating acne, it also improve heart, joint and brain health.

Cons:

• Smells strong.
• Some people had headache initially.

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2. Sports Research Antarctica Krill Oil

The supplement contains 1000mg of krill oil, 122mg EPA, 60mg DHA, 230 omega-3, 1mg Astaxanthin and 400mg phospholipids. It is made with superba2 kill oil which a new advance formula that is clinically proven to increase omega-3 fatty acid levels in the body. Apart from treating acne, it also supports joints and cognitive function.

This advanced formula decreased the krill oil smell and you will not experience any after taste fish burp as well. Superba2 formula is clinically proven to increase omega-3 fatty acid levels in the body.

The krill oil used in this supplement is sustainably harvested and 100% traceable from sea to the shelf. It is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and International krill oil standards programs with 5 rating.

Pros:

• New advanced formula superba2.
• Clinically proven to increase omega3 levels.
• 1mg astaxanthin per capsule.
• No fishy aftertaste and less krill oil smell.
• Sustainably sourced krill oil.
• Non-GMO and gluten free.
• 90 day money back guarantee.

Cons:

• The capsules are big.

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3. Jarrows Formulas Krill Oil

When it comes to quality, jarrows formulas is one of the best among the manufacturers. The krill oil in these supplements is 100% extracted from the cold waters of Antarctica. Each capsule contains 1200mg krill oil, 120mg EPA, 70mg DHA, 650mg Omega and 115mg Astaxanthin.

This supplement is beneficial in treating acne, improving heart health and brain health. The omega-3 content present in it will support proper cardiovascular functioning, joint support and Pre-menstrual syndrome.

The oil extracted from the krill using a proprietary process called MSO (multi stage oil-extraction). This process preserves the natural qualities and freshness. Each batch of supplements is tested to meet stringent standards that dietary supplements demand.

Pros:

• Extracted from Antarctica krill.
• Contains 1200mg krill oil.
• Doesn’t contain wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, egg, and nuts.
• Non GMO.
• Manufactured in GMP facility.
• No added flavors and fillers.
• Averagely priced.

Cons:

• Leaves an after taste.

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4. Natrogix Pure Krill Oil

Natrogix Antarctic krill oil has been clinically proven to supply additional benefits and high absorption rate than other fish oils. The manufacturers claims the EPA and DHA content present in this supplement are 48X more absorbable than standard fish oil.

This supplements helps to treat root cause of the acne, promote cardiovascular, mental and joint health. Each capsule contains 1500mg krill oil, 123.5 omega fatty acids, 730 phospholipids, 58mg EPA, 21mg DPA and 420mg astaxanthin.

The krill oil is extracted from the superior Antarctic krill which are also known as Euphasia Superba (main food source of whale shark whose lifespan in 100 years). This is an environment friendly supplement as the manufacturer strictly adheres to regulations of CCALMLR.

Pros:

• 100% money back guarantee.
• Oil extracted from high quality krill.
• Adheres to CCALMLR.
• Profound health benefits.
• Helps in clearing acne.

Cons:

• Smells stinky.
• Leaves after taste.

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5. NatureMyst Krill Oil

Last but not least from our list is NatureMyst Krill Oil. Each capsule of this supplement contains 1250mg krill oil, 601mg omega-3 fatty acids, 339mg EPA, 202 DHA, 450mg phospholipids, and 1700mg Astaxanthin.

The oil is extracted from the wild caught krill from the deep ocean water of Antarctica. It is cold processed using supercritical CO2 extraction in order to ensure extra virgin, pure and fresh.

Each batch of this supplement undergoes stringent quality control procedures for safety and potency. Each softgel is Enteric Coated in a nitrogen vacuum to prevent oil oxidation and preserve the highest quality. They are excellent for treating acne, improve brain, heart and skin health.

Pros:

• Cold compressed and 1005 natural.
• No GMO, artificial ingredients, binders, preservatives, fillers or stearates.
• Free of soy, gluten, milk, corn, wheat, and peanuts.
• 3^rd party tested for purity.
• Money back guarantee.
• Made in USA.

Cons:

• Leaves after taste and fish burps.
• Smells odd.

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What is Krill Oil?

Krill oil is a form of omega-3 which is extracted from krill (tiny crustaceans), mostly found in Southern Ocean. They feed on microscopic marine algae and phytoplankton.

As the Antarctic Ocean has low contaminant levels, it is the best and pure source of omega-3 fatty acids. Due to low position in the food chain, krill contains a low amount of heavy metals which are generally found in large fish. This adds to the purity level of the krill oil.

The high amount of omega-3 fatty acids present in krill oil has proven health benefits which include decrease in inflammation, reduced risk of chronic issues and others. (3) Apart from that, it also has phospholipid (extracted from fatty acids) and astaxanthin (carotenoid known for anti-oxidant properties).

How Does Krill Oil Help to Treat Acne?

There are several factors which allow krill supplements to treat acne. We have mentioned them clearly below…

1. Balances Hormones

An increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids has shown improvement in acne caused by hormonal issues. A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has observed a drop in testosterone levels in women who were taking omega3 supplements regularly. (4) This is a good sign because higher testosterone levels are the major reason for acne.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation of the skin cells is very common in acne. Intake of omega-3 has shown to reduce inflammation levels of acne. The same has been proven in a study published in British Pharmacological Society. (5)

3. Rich in Antioxidants

Antioxidants are strongly linked to reduction of acne breakouts. Krill contains a powerful antioxidant known as astaxanthin which is known to have many health benefits including healthy skin.

How to Choose Krill Oil Supplements?

With many low-quality products buzzing around in the market, it is very important to ensure you are getting the right product for the money you are spending. Below, we have mentioned certain aspects to help you make an informed decision while purchasing krill oil.

1. Process of Purification

Unfortunately, majority of fish oil supplements contain traces of toxic PCBs found in the fish. So, it is important to consider where the krill has been sourced and purification process undertaken. Krill should be harvested from deeper waters of the Antarctica where there are very low amounts of toxins.

The krill oil should undergo purification process so that the undesired compounds and salts are removed which are responsible for unpleasant fish-like odor.

2. Content of Omega-3

The main reason anyone takes krill oil is for omega-3. But what if the product you choose has low omega-3? Surprisingly different krill oil brands have different amount of omega-3. So, while purchasing any brand, make sure it has high amounts of omega-3 in it. For an added advantage, make sure it has more of DHA+EPA per capsule.

3. Phospholipids and Astaxanthin

Make sure the number of phospholipids and astaxanthin are as high as possible as it indicated a good quality of the krill oil.

4. Serving Size

The serving size has to be 1000mg. Some options may also have 500mg but they are still quite good. Anything less than this quantity are waste as you won’t get percentage necessary ingredients.

Precautions while taking Krill Oil

Taking anything too much than required is harmful. This is same in the case of krill oil as well. Below are few side effects of krill oil…

1. People with seafood allergy

People who are generally allergic to sea food should avoid taking krill oil supplements. Since, krill oil is extracted from a shrimp like fish, it is better to avoid them if you are allergic to seafood, especially shellfish.

2. During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Omega-3 fatty acids are very important for improving brain development. However, there is no enough research done on whether omega-3 in krill oil form is suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women or not. So, to be on safe side it is better to avoid its intake.

3. Blood Coagulation

DHA and EPA present in krill oil are responsible for blood thinning. So, people who are taking medications of blood coagulation should completely avoid this supplement.

4. Interactions with Other Medications

Krill oil can interact with some medications like ibuprofen, heparin, aspirin, diclofenac, clopidogrel and naproxen. Therefore, it is important to consult a physician or medical professional before taking krill oil supplements.

5. Avoid taking krill oil along with alcohol

Alcohol and omega-3 fatty acid should never be taken at the same time. Alcohol goes through liver for detoxification. One of the byproducts of this detoxification is acetaldehyde which will destroy DHA and convert EPA into toxic form. So, it is important to avoid taking krill oil at least for few hours after drinking alcohol.

6. Avoid sugar and krill oil combination

If you are taking krill oil then stay away from soft drinks that contain high fructose corn syrup. As both sugar and krill oil are processed by liver, consuming them together can cause an overload on liver which is not good.

Health Benefits Linked to Krill Oil

Krill oil has been proven to provide effective results in many health issues. Below, we have mentioned them in detail with scientific proofs.

1. Reduces Inflammation

Actually, acute inflammation is considered to be a normal response by our body’s defence system to protect you against foreign invaders (bacteria, virus and others). However, chronic inflammation is linked to several health problems like cancer, diabetes, obesity and others. (6)

Omega fatty acids like – DHA (docosahexaenonic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are high in krill oil. These fatty acid forms are high in anti-inflammatory properties. (7) As per a study published in Tehran University in Iran, taking omega fatty acid supplements for 8 weeks have reduced inflammation levels in the blood. (8)

Another study published in US National Library of Medicine, krill oil consumption has lowered inflammation markers (TNF-α) in mice which are fed a high-fat diet. (9)

Apart from omega fatty acid, krill oil also contains astaxanthin (natural pigment) which fights off free radicals that is related to chronic inflammation. It also helps in slowing down the aging process and protecting against auto-immune conditions.

2. Improve Health of the Heart

Krill oil is highly beneficial for people who are looking for reducing cholesterol levels or maintain heart in perfect health. Because it contains omega-3 fatty acids which….

• Reduces inflammation, improve cardiovascular function and decrease risk of heart diseases. (10)
• Increases good cholesterol (HDL) in people who are suffering with high cholesterol. As per a study published in US National Library of Medicine, it has been proven that omega-3 fatty acids present in krill oil have cardiovascular benefits. (11)
• Decreases fat and bad cholesterol levels in people suffering with triglycerides. (12)
• Reduces blood pressures and blood cholesterol. (13)

As per a study conducted in 2015, Danbury Hospital has focused in understanding the benefits of krill oil on heart in patients with diabetes. According to this research, 1,000 mg of krill oil supplement has shown a decrease in heart disease risk factors and increases HDL cholesterol levels. (14)

According to other studies – omega-3 fatty acids are helpful in lowering blood pressure, heart rate, high triglycerides, coronary heart diseases and others. (15)

3. Increases Skin Glow

Be it dermatitis or acne, the root cause of all skin conditions is inflammation. One of the major benefits of krill oil is omega fatty acids present in it. They have the capability to reduce the swelling and improve glow.

Astaxanthin present in krill oil is known for improving skin health. As per a study conducted in 2009, topical application and oral supplementation of astaxanthin has decreased wrinkles, age spots and improved moisture content. (16)

4. Helps Brain Health

Omega-3 fatty acids present in krill oil have shown tremendous successful results when it comes to brain health. Below are few of them…

• DHA and EPA are the two types of omega-3’s present in krill oil. DHA is known to very important for brain development. And EPA is known to improve mood and behaviour. (17)
• Krill oil contains phospholipids which are known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They help in reducing oxidative damage in brain and prevent mood disorders like epilepsy, schizophrenia, depression and dementia. (18)
• Omega-3’s are known to prevent decline in brain functionality which is commonly observed in elderly people. As per a study conducted, 45 elders (males) were given krill oil. The results have shown an improvement in brain functionality and memory (19)
• Krill oil has also shown cognitive effects. As per a study conducted on animals, krill oil consumption has shown anti-depression and improved cognition in rats (20)

5. Helps in Maintaining Strong Joints and Bones

 Aging has a major impact on bones and joints. Arthritis and osteoporosis have increased in these years due to aging factors like reduced bone density and cartilage. Some of research studies have proved that omega-fatty acids present in krill oil can maintain your joints strong and healthy. They help in preserving the bone density and reducing inflammation. (21)

Omega-3’s are also helpful in reducing cytokine (inflammatory) levels which is very essential in preventing arthritis. As per a study conducted on 90 heart diseased or arthritis patients, it is observed that daily intake of krill oil has reduced stiffness, pain and functional impairment. (22) And another study has proved that krill oil has improved motion range in joints and reduced knee pain. (23)

6. Can be Helpful in Reducing Risk of Cancer

Some research studies have observed that daily consumption of krill oil can be linked to a reduced risk of cancer (certain types). As per certain studies, they have seen a reduced risk of breast and prostate cancer after taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acids. (24) As per a study published in European Journal of Cancer Prevention, taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce colorectal cancer. (25) However, more studies and research should be conducted for more accurate confirmation on this.

7. Supports Weight Loss

Krill oil is beneficial for losing weight because of the versatile omega-3 content. Several studies have confirmed that omega-fatty acids reduce appetite, increase metabolism and stimulate fat burning. Apart from that, krill oil is also known to block endocannabinoid pathway which can suppress appetite, thus leading to weight loss. (26)

As per a study, intake of at least 1.3 grams omega fatty acids regularly will increase the satiety feeling until 2 hours after having a meal. Several other studies have also proved that omega-3 improves metabolism from 4% to 14%. And this even increases up to 27% when it is combined with fat burning exercises. (27)

8. Aids in Managing Pre-Menstrual Symptoms

In several studies, it is observed that omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil supplements have shown a decrease in pre-menstrual discomforts and period pain. (28, 29)

9. Helps in Dealing with Dry Eyes

Omega-3 deficiency is directly associated with dry eye, eye pain and vision loss. This is also proved in a study conducted on 32,000 women. (30) In another trial performed on 54 participants, consumption of krill oil has reduced eye redness, inflammation and dryness. (31)

10. Treats Diabetes

Krill oil is known to reduce blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in animals. (32) It is also known to decrease the chances of heart attack in patients suffering with diabetes. Because it improves blood tissue function, increases good cholesterol and lowers C-reactive protein. (33) In a study conducted on 48 participants who have type 2 diabetes have seen a reduction in insulin resistance after a period of 4 weeks. (34)

Krill Oil or Fish Oil: Which one is Better?

Fish Oil as well as Krill Oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that include EPA and DHA. So, the benefits of both fish and krill oil for health can be comparable.

1. Absorbability

When it comes to absorbability factor, krill oil is much effective than fish oil. As per many clinical studies, DHA and EPA present in krill oil are much bio-available than others. (35) Particularly, a clinical study conducted on 115 volunteers observed that people who took krill oil have absorbed more EPA than other who took fish oil. (36) This is because, the DHA and EPA present in krill are not bound which makes them more bodily ready.

2. Astaxanthin

Unlike fish oil, krill oil contains astaxanthin – a carotenoid with powerful antioxidant properties. Its ability to fight off free radicals is 6000 times much higher than vitamin C and 40 times more than beta-carotene and 550 times more than vitamin E. (37)

3. Anti-inflammation

Krill oil is known to provide much stronger effects than fish oil. As per a clinical study, krill oil has decreased arachidonic acid (which causes inflammation), increased insulin sensitivity, and fatty acid production. (38)

4. Purity

Krill oil has too low levels of mercury and heavy metals than fish oil. As krill oil feed only on algae, it is less likely to accumulate contaminants. And moreover krill oil is only extracted from the krill living in Antarctic Ocean so there is very less to have contaminated or polluted.

FAQ’s

1. Does Krill Oil Have Any Side Effects?

Usually, people have observed some certain side effects like nausea, indigestion, stomach discomfort, heartburn, fish after taste, belching and bad breathe. However, these issues are occurred during the initial days of taking the krill oils. And they will gradually decrease over the time. If you want to decrease these side effects then you should probably opt for pharmaceutical grade krill oil, start with small dosage and increase it gradually. Apart from that, make sure to take it with large meal.

2. Does Krill Oil Worsen Acne?

Actually, krill oil cures acne by balancing the hormones. However some people have reported an increase in acne breakouts after taking krill oil.

It can be due to a large dose which can be cause an imbalance in the hormones and led to pimple breakouts. If you have experienced breakouts due to krill oil then take 30mg of zinc supplements daily and avoid vitamin B12 supplements. And make sure the krill oil you are taking is of high quality. As low quality can also be a reason for increased breakouts.

3. Where Can I Purchase Krill Oil and How to Use It?

You can purchase krill oil in pharmacies, health stores or online retailers like Amazon or Walmart. Make sure to purchase them only from a trusted stores and reputable brands. While purchasing, check the DHA and EPA content, make sure it doesn’t contain any fillers or added ingredients. This is the best way to understand the quality of the krill oil. Some of the popular brands are Viva Naturals, Jarrows and Natrogix Pure.

If you are wondering how to take krill oil supplements then we recommend starting with a lower dosage. And slowly increase it to doctor or manufacturer recommended dosage by closely observing the tolerance.

It is better to take krill oil supplement after a large meal to avoid some side effects like belching and fish after taste. It is ok to consume these capsules any time of the day however most of them prefer to take after a healthy breakfast.

4. What is The Proper Dosage of Krill Oil?

As per many clinical studies, 1,000 – 3,000 mg of krill oil capsules are recommendable. However, this can vary depending on the DHA and EPA present in them. Generally, most of the health organizations state that 25 – 500 mg of EPA and DHA (combined) is appropriate for most health conditions. So, make sure to check the supplement before purchasing it.

Few Words before winding up…

Krill oil has enough scientific back up to suggest that it can be a possible solution to treat acne. With a wide range of benefits that include heart health and other, it is totally worthy to try…

As per our choice, we will go with “Viva Naturals Krill Oil” because of its quality, extraction process and other factors. Which krill oil supplement did you try? Was krill oil effective in treating acne?

Further if you have any queries about krill oil and its effect on acne, write to us in the comment section below. Our expert team will reach you out as soon as possible.