Some TikTok users have recommended reducing seed oil intake to help improve acne vulgaris. These videos claim that seed oils promote inflammation in the body, and suggest that reducing their intake will help improve inflammatory acne. However, there is currently no clinical evidence to support this. Seed oils are liquid fats obtained by processing seeds. Examples include grape seed, sunflower, corn, soybean, and canola oil.⁶ These oils contain both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, and their specific properties depend on the type and proportion of these fatty acids.⁷ Some of these oils contain essential fatty acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet, including linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, which are omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), respectively. Omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs play essential roles in overall health and are beneficial in disease prevention and reducing inflammation, including skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and acne.⁶ Online videos often lack specificity regarding which seed oils to avoid. However, it can be inferred that the concern typically relates to the high omega-6 fatty acid content found in many seed oils. The Western diet is known to contain higher amounts of omega-6 PUFAs than omega-3 PUFAs.⁸ There is concern that high amounts of omega-6 PUFAs may lead to inflammation in the body, although this remains a topic of debate. Despite this, the American Heart Association found that consuming more omega-6 PUFAs did not alter or lower inflammatory markers.⁹ Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids may benefit patients with acne. Omega-3 may reduce IGF-1 levels, sebum production, follicular occlusion, and inflammatory acne lesions. Omega-3 PUFAs appear to play a protective role, as individuals with low fish intake, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to have more severe acne.⁸ Overall, there is no conclusive evidence directly linking dietary seed oils to acne development. While online videos frequently recommend constricting seed oil intake to decrease inflammation, the literature instead suggests that increasing omega-3 PUFA intake may help restore a healthier omega-6 to omega-3 balance.⁹ This approach may be beneficial for patients with acne who are interested in dietary modifications to support skin health.

Online videos suggest that reducing sugar intake may improve acne, a link that has been widely investigated over time. Videos claim that diets full of refined sugar lead to blood sugar spikes, which then trigger systemic inflammation and worsen acne. While one study compared the diets of patients with acne vulgaris to those of healthy controls and found no statistically significant difference in sugar consumption,¹⁰ other studies have reported a potential association. Specifically, one study found that consuming milk chocolate and sugary beverages was associated with an increased risk of acne.⁸ There is no definitive evidence that these foods directly cause acne.⁸ Rather, this correlation is thought to be from the consumption of high glycemic index foods, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of acne.⁸ The glycemic index is a scale used to assess how quickly carbohydrate-containing foods are absorbed and metabolized. Diets high in glycemic index have been associated with poorer glycemic control.¹¹ Regarding acne, high glycemic index foods can increase IGF-1, leading to the proliferation of keratinocytes and increased androgens, which can cause increased sebum and acne.¹² There is evidence that low glycemic index diets can reduce acne; however, these benefits are typically observed only when accompanied by weight loss.¹² Thus, online videos discussing “glucose spikes” due to high sugar diets are in reference to glycemic control, which has been associated with acne in some studies. However, the specific role of refined sugar in the pathogenesis of acne remains unclear and requires further investigation. Therefore, it is essential to counsel patients on maintaining a well-balanced diet rather than focusing on individual dietary restrictions in acne management.

TikTok videos suggest that reducing dairy product intake can improve acne, and studies support this association. Online videos vary in their explanations of how dairy may contribute to acne, with many suggesting hormonal imbalances or increased inflammation as possible causes. In the research, some have reported that a high intake of whole milk or dairy products, consumed more than three times a week, can exacerbate acne.¹² Unlike definitive claims in popular TikTok videos, the literature continues to debate the pathogenesis underlying the association between acne and dairy. Some hypothesize that hormones in dairy products, including IGF-1, five alpha-reduced steroids, and alpha-lactalbumin, survive processing and may impact the pilosebaceous unit.¹³ Elevated insulin and IGF-1 levels may stimulate sebaceous lipogenesis and inflammation, potentially playing a role in acne pathogenesis.¹⁴ Although the exact mechanism is unclear, evidence suggests that dairy consumption may worsen acne. However, more studies are needed to better define this relationship. Therefore, patients should be educated that the underlying mechanism linking dairy intake and acne remains incompletely understood at this time.

Some online videos claim that increasing exercise can help improve acne. Videos suggest that physical activity and sweating help regulate hormonal imbalances, thereby reducing acne breakouts. However, there are limited studies that investigate this relationship in the literature. In one cross-sectional study, 484 people were surveyed about lifestyle factors and the presence of acne. Researchers saw no statistical significance between physical exercise levels and acne.¹⁵ It is known that exercise consisting of aerobic or resistance training improves both short and long-term glycemic control.¹⁶ As previously mentioned, high-glycemic index foods may worsen acne. Since exercise improves glycemic control, physical activity may help alleviate acne through this mechanism. However, there is currently no evidence directly supporting this association. It is also worth noting that certain habits commonly associated with frequent gym-goers may exacerbate acne. Whey protein, a major protein found in milk and widely used in protein supplements, has been linked to an increased risk of acne. Five male patients with acne who were taking whey protein supplements had their acne reversed when they discontinued the supplement.⁸ Additionally, sweating is known to be a potential trigger for acne. Therefore, proper cleansing after physical activity is crucial in helping to prevent breakouts. Although the relationship between exercise and acne is not well understood, patients should still be encouraged to engage in regular physical activity for its overall health benefits, even if its direct impact on acne remains unclear.

Turmeric, or its active component curcumin, is frequently promoted for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. TikTok videos often recommend incorporating turmeric daily into the diet via tea or juice consumption to reduce inflammation and improve acne. A systematic review of 18 clinical trials found that both topical and oral turmeric significantly improved various skin conditions, including acne.¹⁷ However, some authors have raised concerns about curcumin’s low bioavailability, which may limit its effectiveness when taken orally.¹⁸ In one split-face randomized study on curcumin-assisted photodynamic therapy, participants experienced 54.7% lesion clearance compared to 28.1% from light therapy alone, with only mild and transient side effects.¹⁹ Despite limitations, including small sample sizes and short durations, these findings suggest turmeric may be an effective adjunct treatment. However, broader, longer-term studies are still needed. While studies have demonstrated turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties and possible beneficial effects on acne, its oral bioavailability is uncertain. Future research is necessary to establish appropriate dosages and safety guidelines for individuals interested in using turmeric as part of their acne management regimen.

Spearmint tea (Mentha spicata) has gained popularity for its potential anti-androgenic effects in managing hormonal acne, with online videos often promoting daily consumption to help improve breakouts. It is thought to reduce testosterone by modulating luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, which in turn decrease androgen production in the ovaries. It may also inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen associated with acne. A notable randomized controlled trial by Grant et al found that drinking two cups of spearmint tea daily for 30 days resulted in a significant reduction in both total and free testosterone levels in women with hirsutism.²⁰ While the study focused on hair growth, the hormonal shifts observed suggest a plausible benefit for acne as well. Another study by Akdogan et al also reported decreased free testosterone and increased LH and FSH levels after five days of consuming spearmint tea.²¹ Anecdotal evidence on forums and TikTok frequently describes visible improvement in acne after regular tea consumption, although responses vary. Overall, spearmint tea is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts (1–2 cups per day). Therefore, both online TikTok videos and the literature suggest that spearmint tea consumption may be beneficial for acne. However, further research is needed to clarify its role in acne management and to determine the long-term effects.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has gained popularity on social media as a “natural detoxifier” for acne, with videos recommending daily tea consumption due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which are purported to benefit acne.^22,23 Research from 2015 showed that extracts from dandelion leaves and flowers protect skin cells against UVB radiation damage by reducing reactive oxygen species inside cells and matrix metalloproteinase activities, indicating possible dermatologic uses beyond simple detoxification.²³ A 2021 clinical study showed that applying a topical dandelion formulation led to a slight reduction in acne severity without any side effects. However, the limited sample size and study design prevent firm conclusions from being drawn.²² While research suggests dandelion may have skin benefits, there is still insufficient clinical evidence to support its dermatologic use. Existing clinical research on the oral use of dandelion tea remains highly insufficient.²² Although mechanistic studies show potential benefits, they do not provide sufficient evidence for strong clinical recommendations. The absence of randomized controlled trials prevents evidence-based recommendations for dandelion tea as an acne treatment despite promising preclinical results. Although dandelion preparations tend to be well-tolerated according to patient reports, they need to be validated by high-quality clinical research for reliable results.

Some TikTok users claim that ginger can help reduce acne, though scientific evidence supporting this is limited. Videos suggest consuming ginger via tea for its anti-inflammatory properties, claiming it may improve acne. Ginger does exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, primarily attributed to compounds such as gingerols.²⁴ One study by Nongkhai et al found that ginger extracts exhibited antimicrobial activity against C. Acnes, the bacteria implicated in acne vulgaris, as well as Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis at higher concentrations.²⁵ This in vitro study additionally supported ginger extracts’ antioxidant effects. While several in vitro and animal studies confirm its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, clinical trials specifically focused on acne are still lacking. Ginger’s antimicrobial effects against C. acnes, in theory, should decrease the formation of acne lesions. It also has a favorable safety profile when consumed in culinary doses, though high doses might cause gastrointestinal upset. Topical application in moderate doses has not been shown to be cytotoxic against human keratinocytes, suggesting a low risk of adverse events with topical use as well.²⁵ Overall, ginger’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties may offer potential benefits in acne management, as suggested by online videos. However, further research is needed to clarify its specific role in managing acne.

TikTok videos recommend over-the-counter saw palmetto supplements, available in capsules or pills, for acne management due to their proposed anti-androgenic effects. The anti-androgenic properties of saw palmetto, an herb derived from the fruit of the American Dwarf Palm, are attributed to its liposterols.²⁶ Saw palmetto blocks 5-alpha-reductase, thereby preventing the conversion of testosterone to its more active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and blocks DHT from binding to its receptor.²⁷ High levels of DHT have been associated with hormonal acne; therefore, it is thought that stopping the conversion of testosterone to DHT will result in improved acne. Limited studies suggest that it can reduce sebum production when applied topically, although clinical evidence is lacking.^20,28 Anecdotal experiences are mixed, with some users reporting improvement and others reporting worsening acne. The use of saw palmetto appears to be well-tolerated, with most reported side effects being mild, infrequent, and reversible. These include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, headache, decreased libido, and rhinitis.²⁹ No drug interactions have been reported.²⁹ However, better quality reporting is needed to assess its safety profile more accurately. While saw palmetto has demonstrated anti-androgenic properties, no formal studies have confirmed its effectiveness in managing acne. Therefore, claims on TikTok of its benefits are based on individual reports and still require confirmation through well-designed clinical studies.

Over-the-counter zinc supplements are frequently recommended in TikTok videos for acne management due to their potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.³⁰ In support of these claims, a 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis found that patients with acne have lower serum zinc levels than healthy controls, and zinc supplements effectively reduced inflammatory papules without major negative events.³⁰ According to a 2023 randomized controlled trial, oral zinc sulfate combined with topical retinoids achieved better acne severity reduction than retinoids alone.³¹ Research shows that zinc alone lowers lesion numbers after 6 to 12 weeks.^30,32 Multiple research studies show different ways to use zinc. However, there is agreement on its beneficial role in acne treatment as an additional therapy. In contrast, online videos rarely specify guidance on route of administration, dosage, or frequency of supplementation. Research also indicates that efficacy results vary between studies, underscoring the significance of product formulation, dosage levels, and simultaneous skincare routines.³² The most frequent adverse reactions to zinc treatment are mild gastrointestinal symptoms, which occur rarely.³⁰ The results demonstrate that zinc is not a cure-all, but remains a beneficial and low-risk option for comprehensive acne treatment plans. As highlighted in online videos, zinc shows potential as an adjunctive treatment for acne. However, large-scale, placebo-controlled RCTs are necessary to determine the optimal treatment protocols and dosage recommendations before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Many TikTok videos claim that oral vitamin A supplements can help improve acne. Some creators even describe vitamin A supplementation as a less aggressive and more natural alternative to isotretinoin, a medication commonly prescribed for severe acne. Vitamin A derivatives are well-established treatments for acne vulgaris, most notably isotretinoin, a systemic therapy for severe cases. While some online videos discuss prescription vitamin A derivatives, such as isotretinoin, many also highlight the use of over-the-counter oral vitamin A supplementation as a potential acne treatment. In the literature, some studies have reported associations between oral vitamin A supplementation and improvement in acne. For example, an analysis of nine studies found that daily oral vitamin A doses ranging from 36,000 to 500,000 IU resulted in acne improvement in eight trials, with effects becoming apparent between seven weeks and four months.^[33 Despite this evidence, vitamin A has a poor safety profile at the high doses required for therapeutic benefit. Acute toxicity has been reported at doses of 25,000 IU/kg, while chronic toxicity has occurred with doses as low as 4,000 IU/kg taken over 6 to 15 months.³³ Toxicity can result in mucocutaneous side effects, liver function abnormalities, and severe teratogenic effects. Therefore, it is important to counsel patients on oral vitamin A and its potential side effects, especially since dosages are often not specified in online videos. Prioritizing safety and ensuring that patients understand possible adverse effects is of utmost importance before initiating supplementation.

TikTok videos promote oral probiotics for acne, recommending either consuming fermented foods or starting supplements, with claims that improving one’s gut health can also benefit skin health. The gut-skin axis is increasingly recognized, and oral probiotics show potential as a complementary treatment for all types of acne vulgaris.³⁴ A clinical trial in 2023 that used Lactobacillus rhamnosus CECT 30031 and Arthrospira platensis showed that probiotic users experienced clinically significant improvement in non-inflammatory lesions at a rate of 50% compared to 29% among placebo participants.³⁴ A 2025 scoping review found that both oral and topical probiotics reduced acne lesions and inflammation, supporting their role as a potential adjunct to conventional treatments.³⁵ Probiotics appear to influence systemic inflammation and fortify skin barrier function, which could explain their therapeutic effects in acne treatment.³⁶ The collective research findings indicate that probiotics provide a mild internal treatment option for acne management. The administration of probiotics demonstrated a good tolerance profile, with no reports of severe adverse events.³⁴ The variation in probiotic strains and dosages used in studies shows the urgent requirement for the establishment of standardized research protocols. Acne management studies suggest potential benefits of probiotics; however, further investigation is needed to determine the optimal strain or strains, dosing, and their effectiveness when used in combination with standard treatments. Both online videos and research studies agree on the overall health benefits of probiotics and their promising potential for managing acne.

TikTok videos have recommended that increasing daily flaxseed consumption provides benefits for acne vulgaris by increasing fiber and omega-3 levels in the body. Flaxseed, also known as linseed or Linum usitatissimum, is a plant whose seeds are rich in nutrients and have been promoted for their potential health benefits. The oil from these seeds has been used medicinally for centuries to treat various conditions, including skin inflammation.³⁷ While there is not much literature specifically supporting the idea that flaxseed derivatives can be beneficial in treating acne vulgaris, the omega-3 fatty acids they contain have been shown to reduce inflammation by decreasing the production and activity of inflammatory cytokines.^37–39 However, as previously mentioned, studies investigating the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and acne vulgaris are very limited, and those that do exist often have significant design limitations.⁴⁰ Therefore, more research needs to be done to establish a connection between the two. Both TikTok videos and the literature highlight flaxseeds as a nutritious supplement with potential benefits for overall health and a promising, though not yet well-defined, role in acne management.

Camu camu powder was recommended for improving acne, with a spoonful per day promoted as providing high levels of antioxidants thought to benefit the skin and reduce acne. The Camu camu fruit (Myrciaria dubia) is a plant native to the Amazon region that possesses high levels of antioxidants, namely ascorbic acid or Vitamin C.^41,42 While a literature database search yielded no studies specifically investigating the effects of ingestion of camu camu derivatives on acne vulgaris, it has been well documented that antioxidants like vitamin C can be beneficial in maintaining overall skin health. Vitamin C has been shown to decrease inflammatory cytokine activity, promote wound healing, and increase epidermal ceramide production, all of which may contribute to improving the skin barrier and, in turn, lead to a reduction in acne symptoms.^43,44 Although the camu camu fruit contains high levels of skin-friendly vitamin C, further research is needed to elucidate the specific effects this supplement may have on patients with acne vulgaris. In addition, studies are needed to confirm the safety profile of camu camu powder in this population, particularly for daily, long-term use. Given the limited research, camu camu power supplementation should be approached with caution until its benefits and risks are more clearly defined.

Milk thistle was a common recommendation on online videos for improving acne, with many creators suggesting oral supplementation, claiming it helps detoxify the liver and leads to improvements in the skin. The star-shaped fruit and leaves of the plant, known scientifically as Silybum marianum, are the source of the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound silymarin. In a prospective pilot study from 2023, patients with mild to moderate acne who were treated with a 0.5% silymarin-loaded serum formulation twice daily experienced a reduction in acne lesion counts, sebum production, erythema, and pigmentation.⁴⁵ Confirming these results, a large real-world observational study reported an 80% improvement in Global Evaluation Acne scores and patient-reported quality of life using a dermocosmetic product containing S. marianum extract and standard acne therapies in over 4,200 adolescents and young adults.⁴⁶ Consistent with these clinically meaningful outcomes, in vitro research has demonstrated that silymarin regulates sebaceous gland activity and exerts protective effects against oxidative stress in skin cells.⁴⁷ In a split-face clinical trial, 1.4% topical silymarin cream reduced acne severity to a similar extent as 30% salicylic acid peels with improved tolerability.⁴⁸ These clinical trials suggest milk thistle as an effective complementary therapy for acne, potentially attributable to anti-sebum, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Although both TikTok videos and some studies suggest that milk thistle may benefit acne, most existing research focuses on topical formulations rather than oral supplementation. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the effects and safety of oral milk thistle supplements in the management of acne.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gained significant traction as a natural health supplement over the past decade and is now popular as a topical treatment for acne. Some TikTok users are recommending its use, both orally and topically, in the treatment of hormonal acne. Video recommendations vary; some suggest mixing a spoonful of ACV into a glass of water, while others suggest diluting ACV in a spray bottle to use as a facial toner. ACV’s appeal lies in its acetic and malic acid content, which possesses antimicrobial and pH-balancing claims. However, there is currently no robust clinical evidence demonstrating ACV’s effectiveness in treating acne in human subjects. Dermatologists generally recommend using it only in a highly diluted form (eg, 1:4 ratio) as a toner. Several case reports have documented adverse outcomes, including hyperpigmentation and scarring from undiluted or improperly used ACV products.⁴⁹ The lack of clear dosing guidelines online could increase the risk of adverse events for patients. Therefore, establishing standardized recommendations through scientific studies will help minimize adverse events and support informed patient counseling.

TikTok videos often recommend using topical black seed oil to improve acne, either on its own or mixed with aloe vera gel, and describe it as having anti-inflammatory properties. Some creators also recommend consuming a spoonful of the oil daily for further anti-inflammatory benefits. Blackseed oil, also known as Nigella sativa, is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine to treat various conditions, including allergies, diarrhea, and asthma.⁵⁰ It has also been used for multiple dermatologic conditions, including acne vulgaris management. The oil has been shown to have antibacterial effects against Streptococcus mutans, with its active compound, thymoquinone, exhibiting bactericidal properties. A topical lotion containing 20% black seed oil was found to have improved efficacy compared to benzoyl peroxide. Patients using this topical solution experienced a reduction in inflammation and lesion count; however, benzoyl peroxide was more effective in reducing the overall number of lesions.⁵⁰ Topical black seed oil is generally well-tolerated, with few patients experiencing contact dermatitis from use. The safety of oral black seed oil has also been investigated, and it appears to be well-tolerated with no significant adverse events reported.⁵¹ While some studies support black seed oil for acne treatment, its efficacy does not compare to first-line therapies for acne vulgaris. The mechanisms described in online videos often differ from those reported in the literature. Given its favorable safety profile, additional studies could clarify its potential role as an adjunctive treatment.