NAC

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine known primarily for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and for improving insulin sensitivity.

Quick facts

  • NAC increases glutathione levels in the body by more than 30%, depending on the dose administered.
  • Significant improvement in the reduction of acne lesions by approximately 50%

WHAT IS N-ACETYLCYSTEINE USED FOR?

In the context of acne, NAC may offer several benefits due to its unique characteristics.

  • Beneficial for its antioxidant properties:

NAC is a precursor to glutathione, one of the most potent antioxidants in the body. In acne, oxidative stress can aggravate inflammation and worsen the condition. By increasing glutathione levels, NAC helps reduce oxidative damage and inflammation in the skin.

  • It acts as an anti-inflammatory:

Inflammation is a key factor in the development of acne, especially in inflammatory lesions such as papules and pustules. NAC has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.

  • Contributes to the regulation of sebum:

Although evidence is limited, the antioxidant and inflammatory effects of NAC may indirectly influence sebum production, as oxidative stress and inflammation can deregulate sebaceous glands.

  • It has an antimicrobial effect:

Acne is exacerbated by the overgrowth of bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes. NAC has antimicrobial properties that can help control these bacteria on the skin.

  • Helps improve healing:

The antioxidant capacity of NAC promotes tissue repair, which can contribute to improving the healing of acne lesions.

OTHER BENEFITS:

Helps reduce menstrual pain:Pain generation in inflammatory conditions is associated with the production of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative free radicals. These factors contribute to tissue destruction, hyperstimulation of pain nerve fibers and, in the case of endometriosis, further enhance the synthesis of "abnormal" estrogens by endometrial implants.

In this context, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) plays a key role by reducing the accumulation of oxidative radicals by increasing the levels of glutathione, an essential antioxidant. Furthermore, NAC inhibits the activity of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NFKB, resulting in a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α. This mechanism contributes to mitigating inflammation, protecting tissues and reducing the perception of associated pain.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

It is recommended to avoid its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially if not indicated by a doctor.

You can find the NAC in our following product:
Advanced line

FemmeBalance

£29.62
(4.82)
(92)
PMS relief

Clinical Studies

N-Acetylcysteine and inflammation

In a recent study, it has been revealed that the administration of N-Acetylcysteine elevated serum levels of the antioxidant GSH by 205%, decreased the levels of inflammatory radicals MDA and IL-8 by 38.8% and 72%, reducing the total number of acneiform inflammatory lesions by 50%.

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Sahib AS, Al-Anbari HH, Salih M, Abdullah F (2012) Effects of Oral Antioxidants on Lesion Counts Associated with Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Patients with Papulopustular Acne. J Clin Exp Dermatol Res 3:163.