The brand of Probiotic, parts per billion, number of strands and type of strands will determine how effective it is. In order to feel improvements in the gut and to help with acne a Probiotic must be at least 40-75 part per billion and also at least 8 different strands. Specific strands have been scientifically proven to be helpful for acne while others are not. Therefore, not all Probiotics will help acne specifically.

If a client is already taking a Probiotic, it is important to ask the following:

• How many parts per billion are you taking per day? They should be taking at least 40 parts per billion per day. It is not uncommon for Probiotic supplements to only contain 6-10 parts per billion per day. Price is a great indicator of strength. If they only spent $10-20 then it is a very low dose. A good quality Probiotic will cost at least $35-55.
• What specific strands does in contain? Dr. Robert Siver found that the beneficial flora from Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium specially were helpful in reducing acne.
• Is it non-dairy? Probiotics containing dairy are acne triggering.
• Do you take it consistently, every day? Probiotics must be taken daily since the American diet lacks fermented foods. Most other cultures eat fermented foods which contain beneficial bacteria with meal, ie kimchi, sauerkraut, fermented vegetables, etc
• What brand is it? Keep in mind supplements are not regulated in the United States. This means purchasing a supplement at the grocery store and not from a licensed professional does not guarantee efficacy.
• How many strands of bacteria are in it? At least 8 strands are recommended so that there is a wide variety of beneficial bacteria populating the large intestine.
• How long have you taken this specific brand for? It is recommended to alternate between brands of Probiotics to encourage a variety of bacteria. 

Should the Probiotic the client is already taking not fit these criteria, we recommend they switch to one we carry.