Does brewer's yeast work against acne?
Het Nieuwsblad, 22 May 2026
Dr Griet Voet in Het Nieuwsblad on brewer's yeast: why the evidence against acne is weak and what it does and does not do for hair and nails.
Brewer's yeast has been promoted for decades as a natural remedy for spots and for stronger hair and nails. In Het Nieuwsblad's 'Werkt dat wel?' column, dermatologists put the claims to the test. Dr Griet Voet calls the evidence for an effect on acne, eczema or psoriasis weak. Minerals such as zinc and selenium are important for the skin, but it has not been shown that brewer's yeast as a supplement improves these conditions.
For hair and nails, too, the effect is mainly theoretical: supplements can only make a difference if there is a deficiency of certain nutrients. Brewer's yeast is safe for most people, but it can cause complaints such as flatulence or headaches and is not ideal with certain medications.
Brewer's yeast plays hardly any role in the standard dermatological guidelines. The article's conclusion: it does not work as promised.
Key advice
Do not expect brewer's yeast to solve acne, eczema or psoriasis.
Supplements mainly help when there is a proven deficiency.
If you take antidepressants or diabetes medication, talk to your doctor first.
“Brewer's yeast plays hardly any role in the classic dermatological guidelines” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Acne at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.