A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of an orally dosed supplement, Skin Accumax, containing vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, phosphatidylcholine (lecithin) and diindolylmethane, on treating acne in men and women aged between 16 and 35.

INTERVENTION: The intervention is an orally dose nutritional supplement called Skin Accumax. The active ingredients in the supplement are Vitamin A (200ug), Vitamin E (19.6mg alpha tocopherol), Vitamin C (40mg), Phosphatidylcholine (75mg) and Diindolylmethane (18mg). The daily dose will be 4 capsules per day; 2 capsules with breakfast and 2 capsules with the evening meal. The duration of treatment is 16 weeks. Strategies used to monitor adherence include monitoring through fortnightly follow‐up, email contact, return of used medication at completion of study. CONDITION: Acne PRIMARY OUTCOME: Assess the effectiveness of the orally dosed nutritional supplement, Skin Accumax, on treatment of persistent acne grade II and III in men and women aged 16‐35 over 16 weeks. ; ; The reduction in severity of acne will be assessed using photography before, during and at completion of treatment (and results assessed by a dermatologist). SECONDARY OUTCOME: Assess quality of life and self‐esteem before (baseline) and after treatment with Skin Accumax using a QOL questionnaire, administered before, during and at completion of treatment. ; Evaluate dietary influences on acne through a 3 day food diary to be filled out at completion of treatment (week 16). ; INCLUSION CRITERIA: Males and females Aged between 16 and 35 Have persistent acne grade II and III Currently using standard anti‐microbial washes as the skin treatment only Otherwise healthy Written informed consent from the subject and/or guardians (under 18 years)