Clear Skin Hydration + Probiotics Bundle

Nutritional supplements have an excellent safety track record. However, certain individuals should seek the advice of their doctor before beginning any nutritional supplement program, particularly diabetics, pregnant or lactating women. Clear Skin Formula PLUS contains vitamin A. If you are presently taking a vitamin A containing medication for the treatment of acne, refrain from taking Clear Skin Formula PLUS until 6 months after the end of the treatment cycle. Please refer to the Directions section for more information on precautions and contraindications.

Prescription and OTC acne medications can have powerful activity – with significant side effects. Natural medicines tend to be milder, safer, and far less likely to cause negative reactions. Many topical treatments for the care of acne and inflammatory disorders of the skin have been shown to be effective, and yet are limited by only targeting the outermost layers of the skin. The skin is incredibly good at preventing potential pathogens from entering the body, which also means it is extremely difficult for the active ingredients in topical products to penetrate the deeper layers of the dermis. Therefore, it makes sense to use a bi-directional approach that addresses both the external and internal causes behind the formation of acne blemishes by coupling high-quality topicals with a wholesome diet and supplements.

Yes. Although hotly debated within the medical community in the past, a growing consensus based on increasing research-based evidence agrees that in addition to genetics, hormones, exercise, and stress, diet (and the quality of gut bacteria it provides) can be a major factor in many skin conditions including acne. The skin is often referred to as the third kidney for its role in removing toxins from the body, and studies have shown that some patients with acne have intestinal toxemia (toxins build up in the intestine due to poor nutrition) that may be contributing to their condition. Other studies have found that patients with psoriasis and eczema improved their condition with alpha-linolenic (Omega-3) essential fatty acid supplementation. It simply makes sense that the quality of nutrients consumed will affect the quality of an individual’s skin.

Each Clear Skin Formula PLUS packet includes two capsules of VitaMedica’s Clear Skin Formula and one softgel capsule of hyaluronic acid.

Vitamin A plays a role in skin health because it is needed for the maintenance and repair of epithelial tissue, which forms the skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin A stimulates the growth of the base layer of the skin cells. It also helps cells to differentiate normally and gives them their structural integrity. Vitamin A plays such an important role in dermal health that many topical acne medications are derivatives of this vitamin.

Both forms are provided to ensure safety and efficacy. As a fat-soluble nutrient, vitamin A is stored in the liver and fatty tissue of the body. This creates a concern if too much of this vitamin is taken over time (e.g. upwards of 10,000 IUs of palmitate daily for over 3 months). Clear Skin Formula PLUS is formulated with a modest dose of vitamin A (12,500 IUs total), provided in both the palmitate (7,500 IUs) and carotenoid (5,000 IUs) form. While palmitate is directly utilized as vitamin A, carotenoids must convert into vitamin A to be used by the body. The conversion process for the few carotenoids that have pro-vitamin A activity is not very efficient. For example, six to twelve times more beta-carotene is required to convert into one retinol unit of vitamin A activity. That is why toxicity is not an issue with a carotenoid source. By providing both preformed vitamin A (palmitate) and a natural, mixed blend of carotenoids (Betatene®), Clear Skin Formula delivers an efficacious, yet safe dose of vitamin A to support healthy skin function.

Zinc is a trace mineral that is essential for protein synthesis and collagen formation. Zinc is involved in the proper metabolism of testosterone, the principal hormone involved in the genesis of acne through its role in sebum production. The mineral is also involved in vitamin A function, wound healing, immune system activity, inflammatory control, and tissue regeneration.

Selenium is an antioxidant that works to protect other antioxidants such as vitamin E and is important in keeping tissues elastic. Research has also shown that a deficiency in selenium may play a role in inflammatory conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Selenium functions in glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme which is very important in preventing the inflammation of acne.

Chromium is a trace mineral that works with insulin in the metabolism of sugar and is needed for energy. Chromium also improves glucose tolerance and enhances insulin sensitivity. This is important for some acne patients who do not metabolize sugar properly.

In general, our bodies absorb vitamins without much difficulty, but minerals are not absorbed as well. Chelation is a process that combines a mineral with an amino acid. This process of chelation enhances the absorption of minerals by ͞fooling͟ the body into thinking it is absorbing the amino acid attached to the mineral. The mineral is pulled into the body along with the amino acid, ensuring its absorption. Chelated minerals are more expensive because of the extra step required to attach the amino acid to the mineral. However, this expense is worth it due to the improved absorption.

Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme (digests protein) that is extracted from the stem of the pineapple. When taken in a therapeutic dose, bromelain is helpful in reducing inflammation which often accompanies an acne flare-up.

MSM or methylsulfonylmethane is a natural form of organic sulfur that is necessary for collagen synthesis and is critical in building the sulfur amino acids methionine and cysteine. MSM is a natural antiseptic that works as an antimicrobial. MSM enhances tissue pliability and encourages the repair of damaged skin. By keeping skin cells soft, MSM allows the skin to detoxify. The combination of MSM and vitamin C works faster to heal wounds.

The skin has several functions including temperature regulation, protection of the underlying tissues, fat storage, and immunity. Along with the kidneys, the skin also plays a role in eliminating toxins from the body. In fact, the skin is often referred to as the “third kidney”. The elimination of toxins through the skin can promote the development of acne. Herbs like burdock, dandelion, yellow dock, and Oregon grape, are included in Healthy Skin Formula for their potent cleansing properties of the skin and blood.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) provides hydration and structural integrity to the dermis. As a humectant, the nature of HA’s molecular structure makes it ideal for attracting and holding water. Nearly 50% of the body’s HA is found in the dermis, in the spaces between cells (extracellular matrix). HA, along with dermatan sulfate, serves to maintain the water balance in the dermis and adds support for other dermal elements like collagen and elastin.

It is not recommended that patients take both supplements at the same time. The combination would duplicate a certain number of nutrients (vitamin A, zinc, chromium). To avoid duplication and ensure a safe level of vitamin A, Clear Skin Hydration + Probiotics Bundle is indicated for patients looking to specifically address acne and dry skin, whereas the Anti-Aging Formula is indicated for general wellness and healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Acne, like other conditions of the skin (e.g., psoriasis, eczema, rosacea) is a complicated health issue. What works well for one person may be only moderately effective for another. When starting Clear Skin Hydration + Probiotics Bundle, it is not uncommon for some people to experience a period of adjustment. This means that it is possible to experience a “break-out” when starting the product. If skin continues to break-out after taking the supplement for several weeks, then the product should be discontinued. It takes a minimum of 30 days for skin cells to turnover. For this reason, it is recommended to take Clear Skin Hydration + Probiotics Bundle for three to six months to see results.

It is better to take supplements with food because it helps with the absorption and assimilation of nutrients, especially the fat-soluble vitamins, and to minimize gastrointestinal upset.

Healthy-looking skin that is clear of acne reflects a health-promoting diet rich in fruits, vegetables, as well as high-quality protein and fat sources. VitaMedica’s nutraceuticals are designed to help cover any nutrient gaps that may remain, and target specific health objectives. Our Clear Skin Bundles provide nutrients to banish blemishes from the inside out and promote a clear complexion. Anti-Aging Formula, our most popular wellness product, includes our high-quality Multi-Vitamin & Mineral plus our Phyto-5 Phytonutrient Complex and organic flax seed oil in 30 convenient daily packs.