Internal Skin Journey

First Step Against Acne

At NovaSkin, we want to prevent you from getting lost in endless tests, supplements, and advice without a clear plan. Too often we see clients who have already spent a lot of money on separate tests and "well-meaning" support, without really knowing where the problem begins. That's why we developed this first step.

With the First Step Against Acne test, we specifically map which of the four systems has the greatest disruption. Not everything at once, but precisely what matters most for acne. This gives us focus, overview, and direction — and we can only use follow-up tests or guidance where it's truly needed. First understand where the imbalance lies. Then go deeper.

Why acne must be investigated internally

In many clients, acne doesn't arise from "wrong skincare," but from underlying processes such as hormonal fluctuations, insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, or a disrupted gut barrier. When these causes aren't recognized, we only treat the symptoms and acne often keeps returning.

Identify the root cause
Make targeted choices in guidance
Avoid unnecessary treatments or supplements

What do we test?

1. Gut Health — Closed Gut / Leaky Gut screening

The gut-skin axis plays a crucial role in acne. When the gut barrier is disrupted, substances can enter the bloodstream unwantedly. This activates the immune system, increases inflammatory activity, and can disrupt hormonal processes. We analyze five important markers:

Zonulin – degree of gut wall permeability
Alpha-1-antitrypsin – leakage of plasma proteins
Calprotectin – active inflammation in the gut
Secretory IgA (sIgA) – local defense in the gut
Beta-defensin-2 – antimicrobial response of the gut lining

Disturbances in these markers are often seen in clients with stubborn acne, sensitivities, fatigue, or hormonal complaints.

2. Systemic Inflammation — hs-CRP

hs-CRP provides insight into low-grade inflammation in the body. This form of inflammation is often not directly noticeable, but keeps the immune system continuously activated — an important breeding ground for acne.

3. Blood Sugar Balance — HOMA-IR & HbA1c

With disrupted insulin function, insulin resistance can develop. This stimulates the hormone IGF-1, increases sebum production, and activates androgens in the skin. It is one of the most common, but often missed causes of hormonal acne.

4. Stress-Hormone Axis — DHEA-S

Long-term stress — physical, emotional, or hormonal — burdens the adrenal glands. DHEA-S provides insight into the activity of the HPA axis (stress axis). With chronic overload, DHEA can be locally converted to testosterone in the skin, which increases inflammation and sebum production.

What does this test deliver?

The test package shows where the imbalance begins:

In the gut barrier
In systemic inflammation
In blood sugar and insulin regulation
In stress hormones
Or in a combination of these

Only when it's clear where the problem starts can acne truly be treated sustainably. From these insights, we determine whether further tests or more intensive internal guidance are needed.

A journey we carry together

Recovery from acne requires effort, honesty, and consistency. It's not a quick fix. Internal systems like the gut, hormones, and nervous system need time to recover. An average journey therefore takes at least 3-6 months. We guide you step by step, you are an active participant in your recovery process.

Benefits

Insight into the underlying cause of your acne

Targeted approach instead of trial-and-error

Analysis of four crucial systems: gut, inflammation, blood sugar, and stress

Personal plan based on measurable results

Avoid unnecessary supplements and treatments

Guidance throughout the entire journey

What can you expect in the journey?

Intake & analysis — Online consultation where we discuss complaints, skin history, lifestyle, and patterns

Test kit & guidance — You receive home tests with clear instructions. For blood tests, we support you in scheduling the collection

Results & personal plan — We analyze the results and discuss them by phone. You receive explanation of the findings and advice on next steps

Guidance & follow-up — In most cases, further coaching and additional tests follow. In 9 out of 10 journeys, this is needed for lasting results

Suitable for

Recurring or stubborn acne
Hormonal acne or breakouts
Acne that doesn't respond to skincare or antibiotics
Gut, energy, cycle, or stress complaints
The desire to tackle acne at its core

Test package + consultation & phone results discussion: €369

Frequently asked questions

No. We never work with "blind" supplementation. Only after gaining insight into the cause do we implement targeted support.