Lactoferrin Benefits & Side Effects: How It Affects Skin

Guards Against Infections
Lactoferrin is an important component involved in immune responses. For better appreciation, it is worth noting that iron has a tricky role in the body’s immune system. While it triggers and activates the rapid increase of immune cells, iron also encourages bacterial and microbial growth. Once a foreign body invades the body, the immune system battles pathogenic microorganisms (invading agents) for iron. During this period, proteins such as Lactoferrin keep iron safely away from the harmful invading substances.

The iron-binding protein also exhibits destructive behavior against invading foreign bodies, as it destroys the walls around bacteria. To add, it is thought that Lactoferrin in mother’s milk (especially in colostrum) helps protect breast-fed infants against infections.

A few studies suggest that Lactoferrin may also inhibit hepatitis C infection. It helps increase the production of an immune system protein that plays a key role in fighting hepatitis C.

Promotes Stronger Bones
Although there is little research on it, it is suggested that Lactoferrin has bone-building properties that could help with strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis.

Laboratory tests have found that when combined with a mineral called hydroxyapatite, Lactoferrin stimulates the production of osteoblasts or bone-forming cells. Studies have also revealed that Lactoferrin helps minimize bone resorption in postmenopausal women.

Aids in Good Blood Health
Lactoferrin also has a role in maintaining ideal blood health. By ensuring that iron is well-absorbed into the body, Lactoferrin aids in the production of hemoglobins. These are substances in red blood cells that are responsible for supplying oxygen to vital organs and other parts of the body.

When you have good blood health, you can expect less fatigue and more physical and mental energy.

Supports Skin Health
Lactoferrin is an antioxidant that comes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is through these features that Lactoferrin helps keep the skin functioning like a well-oiled machine.

As an antioxidant, it fights cell-damaging free radicals critical in keeping skin healthy. It helps optimize skin cell renewal and ensures that the skin’s protective barrier is intact. From the outside, the skin would look healthy and supple, and wounds would heal faster.

Lactoferrin’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help a great deal with keeping the skin clear of acne. These help ensure that the amounts of acne-causing bacteria and inflammation in the body are minimized.

A study found that when combined with vitamin E and zinc, Lactoferrin’s acne-clearing features are enhanced, allowing it to assist in reducing acne lesions, comedones, and inflammatory pimples.

Are There Side Effects Linked to Lactoferrin?

Thanks to its many benefits, Lactoferrin is present in various capsules and supplements. But remember that too much of a good thing can be bad. Very high doses of Lactoferrin can cause unpleasant health effects such as diarrhea, chills, fatigue, loss of appetite, and constipation. Moreover, since Lactoferrin can be sourced from cows, people worry about getting mad cow disease. Research debunks this myth, however, as the disease is non-transferable to humans.

The acceptable intake level of Lactoferrin sourced from dietary supplements ranges from 10 to 1200 mg per day. To be safer, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for a dosage that suits your age, health status, and nutritional needs.

How to Take A Lactoferrin Supplement for Acne

Having trouble with acne? Let the skin-clearing benefits of Lactoferrin help. Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin) can help prevent breakouts with the help of the good-for-the-skin trio of Lactoferrin, vitamin E, and zinc.

Together with proper diet and exercise, this clinically tested over-the-counter medicine was proven to help lessen pimples up to 94% with 12 weeks of continued intake for two times a day, based on a clinical study for mild to moderate comedones. Results may vary.

Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin) also helps target pimple-causing bacteria while regulating sebum production and improving skin cell renewal. Suggested use is two (2) capsules daily, one in the morning and one at night, and preferably within 8 to 14 hours apart.

Read more features on skin care, skin types, and managing different types of acne featuring expert tips and advice. Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin) is available in drugstores nationwide, and online on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop at a suggested retail price (SRP) of Php30 per capsule.

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

ASC Ref. No. U0268P071525L