This Unlikely Ingredient May Be An Effective Remedy For Acne

You may remember chlorophyll from your high school biology class as an important part of a plant's reproductive cycle. But, later in life, you probably haven't had much use for it outside of a science lab. Recently, however, liquid chlorophyll is actually becoming a stand-out treatment for acne and a staple in the wellness world — gracing different tinctures and tonics while touting some serious skin-saving benefits. Since blemishes stem from inflammation of the pore, this ingredient helps soothe bumps and irritation with its high antioxidant count. Essentially, it helps fight off the irritants and bacteria that can lead to break outs. 

"Based on several clinical trials, chlorophyll likely works through both decreasing inflammatory markers in the skin and decreasing P. acnes, a bacteria thought to contribute to acne formation," Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group explains to Byrdie.

Companies have added various components to the liquid chlorophyll to combine its anti-inflammatory properties with other helpful additives. To use this ingredient, many celebs and influencers swear by adding a few green drops to their water in the morning to help soothe any areas of congestion on the skin.

Various creams and serums now have chlorophyll within them as an active ingredient so that you can slather on a product loaded with nutrients and anti-bacterial properties. Many products combine other natural ingredients like spirulina, matcha, and coconut to pack a powerful, skin-soothing punch. But, even though it can help fight off acne and provide nutrients for your cells, it's still important to stay on top of your routine in other ways.

Joshua Zeichner, M.D, tells InStyle, "Chlorophyll is a trendy ingredient right now and some data shows skin-renewing and antioxidant benefits, but the jury is out on whether it's any more effective than traditional antioxidant treatments, like vitamin C and retinol."

If you're looking to ingest the substance, there seems to be more correlation between the ingredient and skin-enhancing benefits this way. "Chlorophyll's natural antioxidants are thought to fight free radical damage, leading to improvement in signs of skin aging, such as decreased wrinkles and repairing DNA damage," Nazarian explains to Byrdie.

Either way, your body can reap the acne-fighting benefits of this natural component. Grab a bottle and put a few drops in your smoothie or water in the morning to see if you notice a difference in your complexion.