Evidence supporting the use of: Sea Buckthorn
For the health condition: Acne

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) has gained popularity in recent years for its purported ability to support skin health, including acne treatment. The justification for its use against acne is supported by both its traditional application in folk medicine and a small but growing body of scientific evidence, though the evidence remains preliminary and limited in scale.

Several bioactive compounds in sea buckthorn oil, such as palmitoleic acid (omega-7), linoleic acid, tocopherols, and carotenoids, are known to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. These characteristics hypothetically make it beneficial for acne, which is driven by inflammation and oxidative stress.

A handful of in vitro and animal studies suggest that sea buckthorn extract may reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). Some small clinical trials and case reports have reported improvements in acne severity with topical or oral sea buckthorn preparations, possibly due to improved skin barrier function and reduced sebum production. However, these studies are often limited by small sample sizes, lack of robust controls, or short durations.

Overall, while mechanistic rationale and early research support the use of sea buckthorn for acne, high-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking. Thus, scientific evidence exists but remains preliminary, and further research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

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