What is Alpha-lipoic acid?
The NIH LiverTox review summarizes the clinical trials of alpha-lipoic acid, most of them in diabetic nerve symptoms.
What it does for skin
We found no human skin trial of oral alpha-lipoic acid in the sources reviewed, so no skin benefit is shown.
What the research shows
LiverTox concludes that alpha-lipoic acid has not been shown to ameliorate symptoms or progression in the trials it reviews.
Trials used 600 to 1800 mg a day by mouth. In one 5-week oral trial, 48 to 52% of patients reached the trial’s outcome measure, against 32% on placebo.
A four-year trial at 600 mg a day found no difference on its primary outcome.
Forms, amounts and limits
Trial doses in the review ranged from 600 to 1800 mg a day by mouth and from 100 to 1200 mg by infusion. No skin dose is established.
Safety
LiverTox states that overdose effects can be fatal.
LiverTox describes purported antidiabetic effects. Ask a clinician first if you have diabetes or take a glucose-lowering medicine.
LiverTox notes that alpha-lipoic acid is not FDA-approved for any medical condition.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medicines.
Questions
Does alpha-lipoic acid reduce wrinkles?
We found no human trial of oral alpha-lipoic acid for wrinkles in the sources reviewed.
Sources
General information, not medical advice. Vanu Health does not sell this supplement. Read our terms.