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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Bergamot wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Likely helps
4 of 5 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
Top outcomes
500-1000mg bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF)
With meals, Once or twice daily
Bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) — Bergamonte is well-studied
Prescription topical: a pea-sized amount of 0.025%-0.1% cream or gel applied to clean, dry skin once nightly. Start low-strength and every-other-night to build tolerance. A prescription drug used under clinician direction — not a supplement regimen.
before-bed
Topical cream or gel, 0.025%-0.1% (prescription)
4-12 weeks
4-12 weeks
8-12 weeks
12-24 weeks
12-24 weeks
Months
8-12 weeks
A network meta-analysis on the comparative effect of nutraceuticals on lipid profile in adults
Pharmacological research (2022) · Meta analysis · n=13062
Evidence for bergamot effect was based on relatively small study group and may require further investigations.
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Test the Effects of a Nutraceutical Combination Monacolin K-Free on the Lipid and Inflammatory Profile of Subjects with Hypercholesterolemia
Nutrients (2022) · Rct · n=118
Compared to the placebo, at 6 and 12 weeks, NC did not significantly reduce total cholesterol (p = 0.083), LDL cholesterol (p = 0.150), and triglycerides (p = 0.822).
Effect of bergamot on lipid profile in humans: A systematic review
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2020) · Systematic review · n=442
Although statins can reduce LDLc by 50-60%, less than 20% of patients with high risk of CVD achieve LDL targets.
Topical tretinoin improves photoaged skin. A double-blind vehicle-controlled study.
JAMA (1988) · Rct
Randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial of topical tretinoin for photoaged forearm and facial skin
Tretinoin emollient cream: a new therapy for photodamaged skin.
J Am Acad Dermatol (1992) · Rct
Multicenter double-blind vehicle-controlled trial of tretinoin emollient cream for photodamaged skin
Long-term treatment of photoaged human skin with topical retinoic acid improves epidermal cell atypia and thickens the collagen band in papillary dermis.
J Am Acad Dermatol (2005) · Open label
Long-term topical retinoic acid on photoaged human skin assessed histologically
Based on systematic review showing 75% of studies had significant effects, but meta-analysis noted small study groups requiring further investigation. One RCT showed no significant reduction at 6-12 weeks.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Bergamot has a higher evidence score (6.5/10 vs 8/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
No known interactions between Bergamot and Tretinoin (Retin-A) have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.