Saw Palmetto For Acne And Skin Health: Does It Really Work?

Saw palmetto – a familiar name in the world of hair loss supplements – is now gaining attention in the skincare space, especially among individuals struggling with acne.

While it’s best known for its ability to block DHT, the hormone linked to hair loss, few people realize that this same mechanism could potentially help regulate sebum (oil) production on the skin, reduce inflammation, and potentially improve acne.

As more people search for natural alternatives to traditional acne medications, saw palmetto is emerging as a promising option. But is its effectiveness truly backed by science?

This article will explore the real potential of saw palmetto for acne, looking at scientific studies and offering tips on how to use it safely and effectively.

Benefits of Saw Palmetto for Acne and Skin

Saw palmetto, a small palm native to Florida and certain regions of the United States, has long been recognized for its potential skin health benefits. Scientifically known as Serenoa repens, this plant was used traditionally for managing various skin conditions and bacterial infections [10].

Today, extracts from saw palmetto berries are gaining attention for their potential role in acne care and skin support. Rich in compounds like flavonoids, plant sterols, and fatty acids, saw palmetto offers properties that may help reduce acne, soothe inflammation, and support overall skin health [9].

But what exactly does it do for the skin, and what does the research say? Let’s take a closer look.

Although there are limited clinical studies specifically focused on saw palmetto’s direct effects on acne, hormone-related research suggests it may have an indirect impact on improving skin conditions. For example, some studies have noted that saw palmetto helps reduce oily skin and seborrheic dermatitis—a condition similar to acne [2].

Saw palmetto is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These effects may help calm inflamed pimples and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria (Barakat et al., 2020).

A few trials have shown that saw palmetto berry extract is effective in managing acne and seborrheic dermatitis, making it a noteworthy natural option [2]. In fact, some topical creams and ointments containing saw palmetto extract have even been patented for acne treatment, reflecting its growing recognition in the skincare field [12].

You may also like: 5 Best Saw Palmetto Supplements for Hormone Balance

However, it’s important to emphasize that current research mostly highlights saw palmetto’s indirect effects—such as hormone regulation, anti-inflammatory action, and antimicrobial activity—rather than directly targeting acne itself [2, 7].

While there aren’t many clinical trials focused solely on acne treatment, the existing evidence still points to its potential. For those looking for a more natural approach to support clearer skin, saw palmetto could be worth considering—especially when used alongside a consistent skincare routine.

Next, we’ll take a closer look at how saw palmetto works, including its role in hormone balance, inflammation control, oil regulation, and antioxidant effects, to help you better understand its potential benefits for your skin.

How Does Saw Palmetto Benefit for Acne and Skin Health?

Regulates Hormonal Balance

Hormones play a key role in determining skin health, especially when it comes to acne—a common issue many women face. Saw palmetto shows potential for enhancing skin health by regulating hormones that contribute to breakouts.

Saw palmetto works as a natural inhibitor of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a potent hormone that affects both skin and hair [1, 4].

High levels of DHT can stimulate sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, clog pores, and trigger acne.

This effect is especially relevant for women, who naturally experience hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. By reducing DHT production, saw palmetto helps limit oil buildup, which may lower the risk of acne [1, 4].

There are two types of 5-alpha-reductase enzymes. Type 1 is mostly found in sebaceous glands in the skin, while type 2 is concentrated in the prostate and hair follicles (Dobrev, 2007).

Saw palmetto’s ability to inhibit type 1 is key to controlling sebum production—an important factor in acne prevention. Lab studies show that the liposterolic extract of saw palmetto (LSESr) is even three times more potent than finasteride, a well-known pharmaceutical inhibitor of the enzyme [3].

For women, this could be especially helpful, since hormone fluctuations often make them more prone to acne, particularly when related to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other androgen-related issues.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is one of the main culprits that can make acne worse, causing breakouts to become red, swollen, and uncomfortable.

Saw palmetto may reduce inflammation by suppressing inflammation-related genes in skin cells, as demonstrated in tests on human keratinocytes [5]. This means it can help calm inflammatory reactions—the very processes that make pimples red and painful.

When inflammation is managed, acne spots may not only appear less red but also heal faster, leading to smoother-looking skin.

This is especially helpful for people with sensitive or redness-prone skin, as the anti-inflammatory benefits of saw palmetto can reduce irritation and discomfort [1, 3].

Learn more: Saw Palmetto For PCOS: Does It Help And How To Use It?

Another example of saw palmetto’s anti-inflammatory benefits is its potential to help with conditions like Telogen Effluvium (TE), a type of hair loss where inflammation in the hair follicles plays a key role [5, 3].

Since hair follicles and sebaceous glands are closely connected, reducing inflammation in these areas may indirectly help manage skin concerns such as acne and oily skin. For individuals with inflammation-prone skin, saw palmetto may offer a natural approach to soothing and protecting the skin against irritants. (Baldi et al., 2023).

Moreover, saw palmetto not only works on its own but can also be combined with others for enhanced effects.

In some studies, the liposterolic extract of saw palmetto (LSESr), when combined with other anti-inflammatory agents like carnitine and thioctic acid, showed an even stronger ability to block inflammation-related genes—especially in cell models related to hair follicles [3, 5].

While these studies primarily focused on hair loss, these anti-inflammatory mechanisms may also extend to the skin, where inflammation often worsens acne. This suggests that saw palmetto may indirectly support clearer skin by calming surface-level inflammation and creating better conditions for skin recovery.

Balancing Oil Production

One of the main causes of acne is the overproduction of oil by the skin, also known as sebum. When too much sebum builds up, it can clog pores, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and cause breakouts.

Saw palmetto helps regulate oil production by targeting type 1 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme mainly found in the skin’s sebaceous glands [1]. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that stimulates these glands to produce more oil [3].

When DHT levels are high, the skin can become excessively oily, increasing the risk of clogged pores and acne. By inhibiting type 1 5-alpha-reductase, saw palmetto helps reduce DHT levels, which in turn limits oil production and results in less shiny, greasy skin (Baldi et al., 2023).

The oil-controlling effects of saw palmetto not only help reduce acne but also improve the overall appearance of the skin. With more balanced oil levels, pores are less likely to get clogged, allowing the skin to “breathe” better and reducing the risk of inflammation.

This is especially beneficial for people with oily or combination skin, who are more prone to acne-related issues.

Antioxidant Effects

Our skin faces harmful factors daily, such as UV rays, pollution, and stress, making it vulnerable to damage and premature aging. Plant-based antioxidants are often praised for their ability to protect the skin from these aggressors, and saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) may also play a role in this.

Many plant-based compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals—harmful molecules that can damage skin cells and worsen issues like acne or dermatitis [1].

In the case of saw palmetto, one study found that its extract, when combined with gelatin-cystine, can affect free radical levels, suggesting that saw palmetto may possess antioxidant properties [8].

While this study focused on hair and did not directly address the skin, the ability to reduce free radicals may indirectly benefit the skin by protecting cells from damage and maintaining overall skin health.

However, it is important to note that the evidence on saw palmetto’s antioxidant effects on skin and acne is still limited. Nonetheless, even an indirect impact from its antioxidant properties could support the skin by minimizing oxidative stress—a factor that makes skin more prone to irritation and acne.

This is especially helpful when combined with other properties of saw palmetto, such as oil control and anti-inflammatory effects, to create a more comprehensive approach to skincare.

Side Effects of Saw Palmetto

After learning about the potential benefits of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) in supporting acne treatment and improving skin health, you may be considering using this plant.

However, as with any natural product, it is important to understand the possible side effects to ensure safe usage. While saw palmetto is generally considered safe for most people, it can still cause some unwanted side effects, ranging from mild to more serious.

Overall, saw palmetto is well tolerated when taken orally and typically does not cause significant issues. Studies on hair loss and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have shown that saw palmetto is safe, with few reports concerning side effects [5, 7].

However, some mild side effects may occur, though they are not common. About 5% of patients in BPH studies report minor issues, with half of them related to digestion, such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea [12].

In rare cases, consuming large amounts of saw palmetto berries may cause stomach discomfort or diarrhea.

Additionally, other side effects that have been noted include mild dizziness, headaches, insomnia, fatigue, muscle pain, or rarer issues such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dry mouth, or testicular pain [12]. These symptoms are typically mild and do not affect the majority of users.

Although rare, some more serious side effects should be noted, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions. Saw palmetto may slow blood clotting, leading to an increased risk of bruising or bleeding, especially during surgery [6, 11].

For this reason, individuals preparing for surgery should stop using saw palmetto at least two weeks prior [Kalwat, 2019]. Furthermore, if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or warfarin, exercise caution and consult your doctor to avoid any unwanted interactions [11].

Specifically, saw palmetto is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those using birth control. Some sources warn that saw palmetto may harm the fetus or lead to miscarriage, although these risks need further research [6]. Therefore, if you belong to this group, avoid using saw palmetto unless directed by a healthcare professional.

How to Take Saw Palmetto for Skin

Saw palmetto can be used in three main forms, based on your skin needs and preferred format. The first is oral capsules or tablets, a popular choice due to its convenience and internal effects.

These capsules contain concentrated saw palmetto extract, which helps regulate hormones, control oil, and improve acne, especially for those dealing with hormonal acne. However, the effects may take several weeks to months to become noticeable, and some capsules contain gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegetarians.

One Reddit user shared that they had trouble finding vegan capsules, but when combined with foods like cucumber or nettle, they noticed a marked improvement in their skin*.

Next, there is liquid extract, which is favored for its quick absorption and flexibility when added to water, smoothies, or beverages. Many users report that liquid extracts produce faster results compared to capsules, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle, such as reducing stress or supplementing with L-lysine*.

Finally, there are creams or ointments containing saw palmetto, which directly impact the skin by soothing inflamed acne and reducing redness. Some topical products have been patented for acne treatment, showing potential in improving skin health [12].

However, the effectiveness of topical forms is generally limited to the surface of the skin and does not address internal hormonal causes of acne. These products are also harder to find compared to capsules or liquid extracts.

Read more: When to Take Saw Palmetto: Morning or Night?

Among the methods, oral capsules stand out due to their ability to combine saw palmetto with other ingredients to optimize effectiveness, particularly in balancing hormones and reducing acne. A notable formula combines saw palmetto, Diindolylmethane (DIM), and spearmint.

Saw palmetto in this formula inhibits the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, reducing the production of DHT, a hormone that increases oil secretion and acne.

DIM, extracted from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, supports estrogen metabolism, helping maintain hormonal balance, particularly useful for women with acne related to menstrual cycles or polycystic ovary syndrome.

Spearmint helps regulate androgen levels, increasing hormones like luteinizing hormone and estradiol, which contribute to reducing facial hair and supporting clearer skin. When combined with zinc, saw palmetto enhances its hormonal-regulating effects, providing significant skin benefits.

User experiences show that this combination formula is more effective than using saw palmetto alone. One customer review shared their experience with this formula:

"This was my first time taking this formula, and I'm impressed. I've taken DIM and Saw Palmetto alone, but never really noticed anything. I really feel like my hormones were really balancing themselves out after I started these, maybe about a week or so in. My skin was smoother, and my hair seemed nicer. I ran out, and I could really feel the difference after a bit of them. I love the subtle minty taste when taking this combination"* – Bridge.

Conclusion

Saw palmetto offers significant potential in supporting skin health, especially for those dealing with acne caused by hormonal imbalance. Thanks to its ability to inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, anti-inflammatory properties, and oil control, this plant is becoming a popular natural method for supplementing skincare routines.

However, the effectiveness varies depending on individual factors and may require time to see noticeable results. If you're looking for a natural and holistic solution, saw palmetto could be the next step to try – but be sure to pair it with a healthy diet and consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.