Adult acne can be frustrating. You’ve outgrown teenage breakouts, yet those stubborn spots still appear. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and skin barrier imbalance can all play a role.
Recent research has highlighted a natural ingredient that may help restore skin balance from within: lactoferrin. This iron-binding protein, found naturally in milk and the human body, has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-restoring properties.
Here are six proven ways lactoferrin supports clearer, calmer skin, especially for adults.
1. It Reduces Acne-Causing Bacteria
Lactoferrin helps control the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes, one of the main contributors to breakouts. It does this by binding to iron, which bacteria need to grow. By reducing available iron, lactoferrin slows bacterial growth and helps reduce inflammation.
Study highlight: A clinical trial published in Nutrition (2010) found that people who consumed lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk had fewer acne lesions and less sebum compared to those who didn’t.
2. It Calms Inflammation
Inflammation is a major driver of adult acne. Lactoferrin helps reduce inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1α and TNF-α, which are responsible for redness, swelling, and irritation.
A 2024 study in the journal Cosmetics showed that lactoferrin reduced inflammatory markers in human skin models and strengthened the skin’s natural barrier, helping calm stressed and irritated skin.
3. It Helps Balance Sebum (Oil) Production
Oily skin is one of the biggest challenges in acne management. Excess sebum can clog pores and trap bacteria.
In the same Nutrition (2010) trial, participants taking lactoferrin saw a significant reduction in surface oil and triglycerides, suggesting lactoferrin may help regulate sebum production naturally. This is ideal for adults who struggle with oily T-zones but dry or sensitive skin elsewhere.
4. It Strengthens the Skin Barrier
A strong skin barrier keeps moisture in and bacteria out. Harsh skincare routines and stress can weaken this protective layer, leading to sensitivity and breakouts.
Lactoferrin supports the production of key barrier proteins such as filaggrin, involucrin, and claudin-1, helping restore resilience and hydration. This can improve healing, reduce irritation, and make the skin more resistant to future breakouts.
5. It Supports Gut and Immune Balance
Your skin often reflects your internal health. An imbalanced gut can trigger inflammation that worsens acne.
Lactoferrin supports beneficial gut bacteria and promotes immune balance. By improving gut health and modulating immune responses, it helps reduce internal inflammation that can manifest as skin flare-ups.
6. It Works Synergistically With Other Nutrients
Lactoferrin works even better when combined with nutrients like zinc and vitamin E, which are essential for healing and antioxidant protection.
A 2017 randomized controlled trial found that a combination of lactoferrin, zinc, and vitamin E led to a 44% reduction in inflammatory acne lesions after just 10 weeks. (Hayashida et al., 2017)
Science Summary
- Reduces acne-causing bacteria
- Calms inflammation and redness
- Helps balance oil production
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- Supports gut and immune health
- Works synergistically with zinc and vitamin E
How to Add Lactoferrin to Your Acne Routine
Most studies used oral lactoferrin in doses of 100–200 mg twice daily for 8 to 12 weeks. Consistency is key. It takes time for your skin to rebalance from the inside out.
At The Lactoferrin Co, our Lactoferrin 95+ capsules deliver 300 mg of pure lactoferrin in delayed-release capsules to ensure maximum absorption and activity through digestion. Made in Australia and shipped from the USA, our products are free from fillers, additives, and GMOs.
The Bottom Line
Adult acne is not just a surface problem; it’s often a sign of deeper imbalance in the skin, microbiome, and immune system. Lactoferrin helps restore balance naturally by targeting bacteria, calming inflammation, and strengthening the skin barrier.
If you’re ready to support your skin from within, explore our Lactoferrin 95+ range today and experience how science-backed natural support can help your skin reset, calm, and clear.