What is the recommended dosage for N-Acetyl Cysteine?

General: 600-1,200 mg/day; Skin Health: 600-1,800 mg/day

What are the side effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Potential side effects include: Nausea and vomiting, Diarrhea, Unpleasant sulfur smell, Rare: bronchospasm (in asthmatics).

What is N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and how may it support skin health?

NAC is a precursor to glutathione, the body's primary intracellular antioxidant. It may support skin health through glutathione-mediated antioxidant defense, melanin modulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. NAC has been studied for acne (as an adjunct), wound healing, and as a mucolytic agent with potential skin benefits through improved detoxification.

What dosage of NAC has been studied for skin benefits?

Clinical studies have used 600–1,800 mg of NAC per day for various indications. Skin-specific studies are limited, but dermatological applications have used 600–1,200 mg daily. For glutathione support, 600 mg twice daily is commonly used. NAC's primary evidence base is for respiratory and liver conditions rather than skin specifically.

What are the potential side effects of NAC supplements?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a sulfurous odor or taste. NAC may interact with nitroglycerin (enhancing hypotensive effects) and activated charcoal (reducing its efficacy). The FDA has raised questions about NAC's status as a dietary supplement. Very high doses may act as a pro-oxidant.

N-Acetyl Cysteine

other

Also known as: NAC, N-Acetylcysteine, Acetylcysteine

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About

NAC is a precursor to glutathione that provides cysteine for glutathione synthesis and directly scavenges reactive oxygen species. A controlled trial found NAC (1,200 mg/day) reduced melanin index. NAC is sometimes used as an alternative to direct glutathione supplementation, which has questionable oral bioavailability.

How It Works

Precursor to glutathione (the body's master antioxidant); provides cysteine for glutathione synthesis; directly scavenges reactive oxygen species; mucolytic properties; may modulate NF-kB signaling and reduce inflammatory mediators implicated in acne, eczema, and skin aging.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Hyperpigmentation	C	3	150	View →

Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Unpleasant sulfur smell
Rare: bronchospasm (in asthmatics)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Nitroglycerin (may enhance vasodilatory effects)
Activated charcoal (reduces NAC absorption)
Anticoagulants (may have mild antiplatelet effects)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Pantothenic Acid Vitamin K

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 600-1,200 mg/day; Skin_Health: 600-1,800 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet effervescent powder
Natural Sources: Not naturally occurring; cysteine found in poultry, yogurt, eggs, garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables
Upper Limit: Generally well-tolerated up to 2,400 mg/day
Best Time: On an empty stomach for better absorption; or with meals if GI sensitivity

Evidence Summary

Hyperpigmentation C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.