Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C (unspecified)
For the health condition: Acne

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is sometimes used as an adjunctive treatment for acne, largely due to its known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Scientific studies have shown that oxidative stress and inflammation play roles in acne pathogenesis. Vitamin C can reduce oxidative damage and inflammation in the skin, and it is also involved in collagen synthesis, which may help with post-acne healing and reduction of scarring. Some topical formulations of vitamin C have shown modest improvements in skin inflammation and redness in small clinical trials or case reports. Additionally, laboratory studies suggest vitamin C can inhibit propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammation.

However, the evidence supporting vitamin C as a primary or stand-alone treatment for acne is limited. Most clinical studies have evaluated vitamin C in combination with other ingredients (such as zinc or other antioxidants), making it difficult to isolate its specific effects. High-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating vitamin C for acne are lacking. Oral vitamin C supplementation has little evidence for acne improvement, and most benefits are associated with topical use.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and low-level clinical evidence supporting the use of topical vitamin C as an adjunct for acne, it is not established as a main treatment, and the evidence base is weak to moderate (rating: 2/5). More robust clinical trials are needed to clarify its efficacy.

More about Vitamin C (unspecified)
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