My dermatologist prescribed Clindamycin, a topical antiobiotic, to treat stubborn acne on my face, back and neck. While it did clear up the blemishes, I wasn’t happy with a) the high price (do health insurers cover anything anymore?) and b) smearing powerful antibiotics on my skin. Being a natural health writer, I decided to look for a more natural approach. So, you can imagine my surprise when I quickly came across a study in the International Journal of Dermatology that found acne-prone patients who used a topical gel made with niacinamide—vitamin B3—had 14% fewer pimples after eight weeks than those using Clindamycin. I immediately switched and found that the niacinamide gel did, indeed, work better, faster and for a fraction of the cost without any harsh chemicals. I get my niacinamide gel at lifelinknet.com (which they call Metazene) for $19.95 per 2-ounce bottle. Order it online or by calling 888-433-5266. I don’t receive any money or products for endorsing Metazene—just the smug satisfaction of knowing that, perhaps, a few less people will persuaded by their dermatologists to first try expensive antiobiotics when a perfectly good natural alternative may work even more effectively.
[photo: Luke Wisley]
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I don’t have acne but my sister did. It was compounded by her beautiful long wavy hair (hair oil, heat and the lack of air) This was back in high school.
She had very good luck taking brewer’s yeast. It comes in tablet form and is generally inexpensive. Hope this helps someone.
Thanks for the great suggestion, Bea. Coincidentally, that, too, is high in B vitamins.