Product Reviews and Information for Acne
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CL Answer
Which vitamins and supplements are good for acne, and are there any that make it worse?
Information about supplements for acne and clearer skin. Plus, find out which vitamins and supplements can make acne worse.
CL Answer
Is it true that iodine can cause acne or other skin problems?
Information on iodine causing acne and other skin problems such as rashes and hives. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
Product Review
Black Currant, Borage, Evening Primrose, Flax and Hemp Oil Review
Choose the Best Flaxseed and Other Oils Based on Our Tests.
Product Review
Kelp Supplements Review
Choose the Best Kelp Supplement. Be Cautious With Kelp! Only 50% of Supplements Pass CL's Review.
CL Answer
What is lactoferrin and will it really strengthen my immune system?
Info about lactoferrin supplements, clinical evidence for strengthening the immune system, preventing or treating colds, gut health and treating H.
Product Review
Seaweed Snacks and Foods Review
Tests Reveal Seaweed Snack Risks
CL Answer
Do face creams, anti-aging serums, and acne gel treatments containing vitamin A or retinol reduce bone density or increase the risk of fractures?
Find out if using face creams, anti-aging serums, or acne gel treatments containing vitamin A or retinol can reduce bone mineral density or increase the risk of fractures,
Product Review
B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)
See Our Top Picks and Which 5 Failed Testing
Product Review
Probiotic Supplements Review (Including Pet Probiotics)
Probiotics: See What They Really Contain and Our Top Picks
Product Review
Zinc Supplements, Lozenges, and Melts Review
Find the Best Zinc Supplements, Including Lozenges for Colds.
CL Answer
Does red and near infrared light therapy reduce pain, improve skin or cognition, or have other benefits? Is it safe?
Red light and near infrared light therapy devices are promoted for numerous conditions, including acne, fibromyalgia, pain, cognitive function and other uses. Find out if these devices work and if they are safe.
Product Review
Vitamin A Supplements Review, Including Beta-Carotene and Cod Liver Oil
Find the Best Vitamin A Supplement. Best Quality Vitamin A Supplements Identified, Including Cod Liver Oil.
Product Review
Fish Oil, Krill Oil, and Algal Oil Omega-3 (DHA & EPA) Supplements Review
See Our Omega-3 Top Picks and Avoid Rancid Fish Oils.
Product Review
Green Tea Review: Tea Bags, Loose Leaf Tea, Matcha Powders, and Supplements
Some green teas provide barely any green tea polyphenols, while some others are high strength. See the Test Results and Our Top Picks for Green Tea.
Product Review
Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, and Boron)
Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement and Avoid Problems
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of bovine colostrum and is it safe?
Bovine colostrum is promoted for boosting immunity, preventing and treating diarrhea, and improving gut health, but does it really work? See the clinical evidence for bovine colostrum, including doses that have been used, as well as safety concerns, cost considerations, and the difference between regular bovine colostrum and hyperimmune bovine colostrum.
Product Review
Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review
Find Out Which Protein Products Passed or Failed Our Tests
CL Answer
What are the possible health benefits of fenugreek, and is it safe?
Fenugreek is promoted for boosting testosterone, increasing breastmilk production, lowering blood sugar, improving symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other conditions, but does it work? Find out.
CL Answer
What are phytoceramides? Do phytoceramide supplements really work to improve aging skin?
Phytoceramide supplement information, including what they are, what they claim to do, and if they have anti-aging effects.
Product Review
DHEA Supplements Review
Choose the Best DHEA Supplement. Beware of Big Differences in Dose and Price.
Product Review
Dark Chocolates, Cocoa & Cacao Powders, Nibs, and Supplements Review -- Sources of Flavanols
Is Your Chocolate or Cocoa Healthful or Toxic? Find the Best Dark Chocolate, Cocoa Powder and Cocoa Supplements Based On Our Tests.
CL Answer
Himalayan and Sea Salts: Health Benefits, Toxic Metals, & Microplastics
Himalayan salt health benefits, along with other gourmet salts like Hawaiian and Mediterranean. Info including what's in them and their safety.
CL Answer
What' the Best Way to Take Vitamin B-12? Dosage and Absorption Tips
Discover the optimal dosage and ways to take vitamin B-12, an essential nutrient, for better absorption and effectiveness and learn about possible side effects.
Product Review
Coconut Oil and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review — Semi-Solid and Liquid Oils & Supplements
Find the Best Coconut Oil and MCT Oil. See How These Oils Compare on Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), Quality, and Value.
CL Answer
I thought the B vitamins were all water soluble and did not build up in the body, so you would not build up toxic levels. Am I wrong?
Learn more about water-soluble B vitamins including niacin, B6, B12 and folic acid, and why taking too much of these vitamins can be toxic. See the symptoms of overdose and toxicity from B vitamins. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
What is monolaurin? Can it really prevent colds, cold sores, or other infections?
Lauricidin (monolaurin) information for preventing colds, immune system function, and safety.
CL Answer
Which is the best mask to prevent COVID-19 and how do cloth, disposable, N95, and KN95 masks compare? How can I stop glasses from fogging?
See our Top Picks for masks. Learn how to make COVID-19 masks from materials at home that can be almost as effective as surgical mask and N-95 masks.
CL Answer
Which supplements may help with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)?
Many supplements are promoted to help treat symptoms of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), but do they really work? See the clinical evidence for inositol (myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol), alpha lipoic acid, vitamin B-12, folic acid, vitamin D and more.
CL Answer
How does Athletic Greens’ AG1 compare to multivitamins and Greens powders? Is AG1 worth it?
ConsumerLab reviews the ingredients in AG1, its safety and possible side effects, and how AG1 compares to other products.
CL Answer
Can taking too much vitamin B-12 be dangerous? The label on my B-complex states it contains 50,000% of the Daily Value!
Find out the daily value for vitamin B-12 and the potential side effects of taking too much B-12. ConsumerLab explains why taking too much vitamin B-12 can be harmful.
CL Answer
Do hair loss supplements, such as Viviscal, Hair La Vie, and Nutrafol, or topical essential oils work?
Vitamins and supplements that may help with hair loss and thinning, including saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, protein, iron, and vitamin D.
CL Answer
5 Tips for Finding a Soap or Body Wash That Won't Irritate Skin
Get 5 tips for finding soap or body wash that won't cause skin irritation. See which soaps we rate best, ingredients to avoid, and phrases on labels that can mislead.
CL Answer
What does "%DV" (Daily Value) mean on a supplement label, how does it differ from RDAs, and should anyone take more than the DV for a nutrient?
Find out the difference between RDAs (Recommended Daily Allowances) and DVs (Daily Values) for vitamins and minerals, and learn whether certain groups of people should take more than the 100% DVs for vitamins and minerals.
CL Answer
Does I3C (from broccoli) or DIM (a related chemical) reduce the risk of cancer?
Find out if the compound indole-3-carbinol (I3C), from broccoli, and its metabolite diindolylmethane (DIM) can reduce the risk of cancer. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help with COVID-19? Do supplements like vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, or herbals work?
Find out if natural remedies & supplements for coronavirus such as zinc, vitamin C, garlic, or elderberry help to prevent or treat COVID-19.
CL Answer
Are Hormone Harmony and other Happy Mammoth Supplements Worth Taking?
Are the supplements Hormone Harmony, Hormone Harmony Plus+, Prebiotic Collagen Protein, or Bloat Banisher by Happy Mammoth likely to be beneficial for menopause symptoms or digestive health? Find out.
CL Answer
What is inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) and myo-inositol? Are they helpful in treating cancer or other conditions?
Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6): Find out if IP6 (also known as phytic acid) can prevent or treat cancer. Clinical evidence, dosage, safety and how IP6 differs from myo-inositol. Consumerlab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Desiccated Beef Liver and Beef Organ Supplements: Nutrition & Safety
Description of desiccated beef liver, including what it is used for, its nutrient content, and safety concerns.
Recalls & Warnings
April 30, 2021
FDA Warns Seller of Fish Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Collagen, and Elderberry Supplements
On April 13, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to Orphic Nutrition following a review of the company's websites, which found statements made about the products Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules, Ashwagandha Capsules, Garcinia Cambogia Capsules, Premium Collagen Peptides Capsules, Elderberry ...
News Release
January 23, 2025
ConsumerLab Tests Identify Best Black Currant, Borage, Evening Primrose Flax and Hemp Oils
White Plains, NY, January 23, 2025 — Black currant, borage, evening primrose, flax, and hemp oils contain omega-3, -6, and/or -9 fatty acids that, when replacing saturated fats in the diet, may help reduce cardiovascular risk.
News Release
June 25, 2019
ConsumerLab Tests Reveal Best B Vitamin Supplements -- 19% of B Vitamin Supplements Fail CL's Tests of Quality
White Plains, New York, June 25, 2019 — B vitamins and complexes are among the most popular supplements sold in the U.S. because B vitamins are essential for a wide range of functions in the body.
News Release
December 10, 2014
ConsumerLab.com Identifies Best Zinc Products for Colds, Eyes, and Zinc Deficiency -- Popular Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Tested and Compared
White Plains, New York, December 10, 2014 — "Zinc supplements have been shown to shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration, but not all products provide the dosage proven effective, as well as pass criteria for supplement quality," says Tod Cooperman, M.D.
News Release
December 20, 2011
Choose zinc supplements carefully -- ConsumerLab.com finds only some have dosage proven to shorten colds, reduce eye disease
White Plains, New York — December 20, 2011 — Can zinc supplements shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration? "Yes, but not all supplements provide a dosage that has been proven effective." says Tod Cooperman, M.D., President of ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
December 09, 2008
Tests of zinc supplements by ConsumerLab.com show only some provide dosage proven to shorten colds, reduce eye disease. Lead contamination found in one product.
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — DECEMBER 9, 2008 — Zinc supplements can shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration, among other uses. But a new report by ConsumerLab.
News Release
April 07, 2004
ConsumerLab.com finds some zinc supplements low in ingredient and many don't instruct on proper use — Consumers urged to learn more about zinc when using supplements
WHITE PLAINS, NY — April 7, 2004 (updated May 4, 2004) — ConsumerLab.com announced today that two of nine zinc pill or liquid supplements that it recently tested contained only 73% to 85% of the claimed amounts.
Recalls & Warnings
July 06, 2021
CBD Products Were Promoted to Treat Cancer and Alzheimer's Without Proof, Says FTC
On July 6, 2021, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it has approved a final administrative consent orders against Kushly Industries LLC and the company's owner, Cody Alt, for allegedly making unsupported health claims about its CBD products.
Recalls & Warnings
December 15, 2020
FDA Warns Seller of Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan
On December 2, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Smoky Mountain Naturals, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
July 12, 2017
More Bodybuilding Supplements Recalled
On July 11, 2017, Andropharm recalled two bodybuilding supplements, Sten Z and M1 Alpha, because these products contain derivatives of anabolic steroids.
Recalls & Warnings
June 20, 2017
Beware of Bodybuilding Supplements, FDA Warns
On June 20, 2017, the FDA warned consumers to beware of bodybuilding products because a number of these products have been found to contain steroids or steroid-like substances. Such products could cause serious and even life-threatening health risks, including:
Recalls & Warnings
July 08, 2015
Marketer Prohibited From Promoting Mineral "Cure" For Autism
Kerri Rivera, author of "Healing the Symptoms Known As Autism," has signed an agreement with the Illinois Attorney General which prohibits her from promoting Miracle Mineral Supplement (MMS) as a cure for autism.
Recalls & Warnings
May 03, 2013
Homeopathic Company Warned For Drug Claims and Improper Labeling
On March 12, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Natural Medicine Associates, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
January 30, 2013
Seller of Omega-3 and Emu Oil Supplements Warned For Drug Claims, Misbranding
On November 19, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Emu Products & Management, Inc. after a review of the company's website found statements that promoted the dietary supplements Multi-Omega Gel Caps, Recovery Gel Caps, ARP Gel Caps and the topical skin products Extreme Cryo Gel, F.A.C.E.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2018
FDA Warns Seller of Echinacea, Iron, Aloe Supplements & More for Manufacturing Violations
On March 30, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Ozark Country Herbs following a facility inspection which found a number of the company's products, including Echinacea-Goldenseal, Natural Iron, and Aloe-Vera Goldenseal Salve, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under ...
Recalls & Warnings
August 09, 2010
FDA Warns Against "Miracle" Mineral Supplement
On July 30, 2010, The U.S. FDA warned consumers not to consume or use Miracle Mineral Solution, an oral liquid solution also known as "Miracle Mineral Supplement" or "MMS." The product, when used as directed, produces an industrial bleach that can cause serious harm to health.
Recalls & Warnings
June 05, 2012
Many "Grapefruit Seed Extracts" Adulterated
On June 4, 2012, the American Botanical Council (ABC) announced the publication of a review of scientific literature regarding “grapefruit seed extracts,” raising concerns about apparent adulteration of products in the US and international marketplaces.
