Skin+ ADVANCED is meticulously crafted to address advanced skin conditions through a scientifically informed and compassionate approach, recognising the skin as a crucial component of a complex physiological defence system. This integrative systemic solution acknowledges the skin’s intricate connections with various organ systems, including the nervous system, digestion, hormone balance, immunity, and detoxification processes. To effectively manage and treat skin issues, Skin+ ADVANCED considers the interconnected nature of contributing factors such as intestinal dysbiosis, intestinal permeability, toxic stress, medication use, stress levels, systemic inflammation, autoimmune responses, microbial infections, and immune imbalances. By addressing these factors comprehensively, Skin+ ADVANCED promotes complete skin health and resilience.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

One of the first line organ defence systems is the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).  It is in the GIT that most inflammatory diseases start from. The GIT is an intricate system that protects the internal physiological environment from external pathological insult. The digestive defence system involves the probiotics, enzymes, digestive juices, immune cells and immune modulators, and a healthy absorptive mucosal lining. 

Factors like infection, stress, food preservatives and additives, food allergens, toxins, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, trauma or burns may damage the digestive system, reduce effective digestion and immune protection, and subsequently increase damage to the digestive lining. Increased permeability of the digestive lining increases the absorption of undigested food particles, toxic molecules and pathological organisms which may significantly increase the risk of systemic degenerative diseases including skin disorders2.

Impaired probiotic balance increases the risk of dysbiosis, which is the overgrowth of pathological organisms like fungi, parasites and bacteria. Dysbiosis is proposed to be a major cause of diseases like skin disorders and food allergies, and may be associated with urticaria, allergy, anxiety, depression and cognitive dysfunction, and metabolic disease1.

The ingredients in Skin+ ADVANCED function in synergy to optimise gut health; hereby enhancing pet dermal health for a healthy skin and lustrous coat. 

TURMERIC 95% EXTRACT/CURCUMIN (Curcuma longa)
32 times more concentrated than turmeric powder
Curcumin enhances digestive health by:
• stimulating the release of digestive enzymes like amylase, lipase, and chymotrypsin which support proper digestion of food25,
• stimulating bile secretion and bile flow which enhances digestion of fats and promotes elimination of toxic waste products27,28,
• protecting against infections and inflammation in the digestive tract. These insults could increase permeability of the gut lining, and subsequently induce immune hyper-responsiveness and allergic reactions manifesting through the skin25,26.

BURDOCK (Arctium lappa) supports digestive health53 by providing inulin which serves as a fibre and prebiotic. As a bitter herb, it also stimulates bile flow54 and gastric juices which supports proper digestion, and promotes the elimination of metabolic waste products and toxic by-products, like drugs and heavy metals52.

SCHISANDRA (Schisandra chinensis) benefits gastrointestinal disorders like hyper- or hypo secretion of gastric juices, gastric infection, inflammation, and ulcers84. It regulates bowel motility, and improves levels of beneficial probiotics 85,86.

SPIRULINA (Spirulina platensis) is an excellent prebiotic, acting as food source for various beneficial intestinal flora like Lactobacillus and Bifidus species19. It also displays significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibiotic abilities20-22,66. Research demonstrates that Spirulina provides substantial protection against toxin-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD induced by toxins is associated with immune cell infiltration, chronic inflammation, ulceration, swelling of the digestive lining, bleeding and tissue degeneration. Spirulina supplementation significantly reduces the toxin-induced inflammation, immune cell infiltration and abscess formation in the digestive lining, and stimulates healing67. Owing to its high concentration of antioxidants, Spirulina possesses great anticancer potential, and may reduce the risk of cancer development and progression. Research validates its supportive use in prevention and treatment of colon cancer 68-70.

MORINGA LEAF (Moringa oleifera) offers significant digestive benefits that can positively impact skin health. As detailed in the review by Pareek et al. (2023), moringa leaf contains bioactive compounds like fibre, isothiocyanates, and polyphenols, which support gut health by promoting a healthy gut microbiota and improving digestion. These compounds help alleviate digestive disorders such as constipation and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which are often linked to skin issues like acne and eczema. By enhancing digestive function and reducing gut inflammation, moringa leaf indirectly supports skin health by mitigating one of the root causes of skin disorders—poor digestion and gut-related inflammation.77.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS demonstrate significant digestive health benefits.  These essential fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the gastrointestinal lining and modulating inflammatory responses within the gut. Omega-3s, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The article emphasizes that omega-3s support a balanced gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms. This balance contributes to improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and overall gastrointestinal health.71

LEMON BALM (Melissa officinalis) provides notable digestive benefits that can indirectly enhance skin health. According to recent research, lemon balm helps alleviate symptoms of digestive discomfort, such as bloating and cramping, through its carminative and antispasmodic effects. By promoting smoother digestion and reducing gastrointestinal inflammation, lemon balm supports a healthier gut environment. This improved digestive function can lead to better nutrient absorption and reduced systemic inflammation, both of which are crucial for maintaining optimal skin health75.

STRESS

Animals experience tension similarly to humans.  Stress induced abnormal behaviour is related to breed, sex, environmental changes, behaviour of the owner, and experiences as a young animal.  In animals, stress associated with adaptation-related problems and trauma can cause skin disturbances like atopic dermatitis, itchiness, and lick granuloma3.

CURCUMA demonstrates substantial benefit in emotional and mental well-being with its balancing effects on neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine5,8,9.  Curcumin also has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory attributes, and may be of exceptional benefit to the health and function of the animal nervous system. It protects the nervous system against pathological nerve cell degeneration, and enhances the regeneration of damaged nerve cells. It further stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF attributes to growth and maturation of nerve cells and promotes their survival10. Curcumin provides protection against neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders like age related cognitive decline, depression, epilepsy, stroke, toxin-induced neurotoxicity and tardive dyskinesia, and stress induced learning and memory deficits 4-7,10.

SCHISANDRA is well researched for its adaptogenic effects, which improves the ability of an organism to adapt to various kinds of stress factors, and protect against damage caused by such factors.  Schisandra protects healthy function of multiple body systems like the nervous system, cardiovascular system, immune system, liver, kidneys, digestive system, and skin.  It aids in neurological disorders like depression, anxiety and neurosis, alleviates stress related fatigue, and improves emotional wellbeing.84

MORINGA LEAF has been shown to offer benefits for emotional well-being and stress management, which can also positively influence skin health. According to the comprehensive review by Pareek et al. (2023), moringa leaf contains adaptogenic properties and bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols that help reduce stress and improve mood. These compounds modulate neurotransmitter levels, reducing anxiety and enhancing emotional resilience. Since chronic stress is a known trigger for various skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, the stress-relieving effects of moringa leaf can indirectly support skin health by lowering stress-induced inflammatory responses and promoting overall skin well-being 77.

LEMON BALM EXTRACT is known for its stress-reducing properties. According to a review by Zam et al. (2022), lemon balm effectively mitigates stress and anxiety through its anxiolytic and calming effects. By lowering stress levels and promoting relaxation, lemon balm helps reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which, when elevated, can exacerbate skin issues such as acne, eczema75. 

OMEGA 3: According to Bourre (2005), omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting emotional and mental health. These essential fats, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been shown to positively influence mood and behaviour, potentially mitigating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Omega-3s contribute to the maintenance of neuronal cell membrane integrity and fluidity, which is vital for optimal brain function. The review emphasizes that omega-3s modulate neurotransmitter activity and reduce neuroinflammation, thereby supporting cognitive functions and emotional regulation. By enhancing the balance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, omega-3s help improve mood and alleviate stress, contributing to overall mental well-being and resilience against mood disorders 73.

IMMUNE-MODULATION & ANTI-ALLERGY PROTECTION

Allergic, inflammatory skin disorders are characterised by increased IgE levels, and raised levels of white blood cells including eosinophils, lymphocytes and histamine-releasing mast cells, which provoke an allergic inflammatory response45,46. Th2 helper lymphocytes are the most prominent cell types involved in the development of allergic dermatitis. Unregulated increased Th2 cell activity increases the release of inflammatory mediators, which lead to itching and impaired barrier function of the mucosal membranes and skin47.

CURCUMIN, well-known for its immune-modulating properties, alleviates symptoms associated with allergic immune responses by regulating Th1(inflammatory) and Th2 cytokine (autoimmunity/allergy) responses, inhibiting IgE levels, and inhibiting mast cell degranulation which releases histamine23.  These properties give Curcumin great potential for clinical management of allergic reactions like asthma, food allergies and allergy related skin conditions24.

BURDOCK exerts anti-allergy protection by reducing the release of mast cells which are the main effector cells involved in allergic and immediate hypersensitivity reactions48.  Burdock has also been found to increase both Th1 and Th2 cell counts, but suppresses allergy related Th2 function, alleviating allergic reactions, but increasing immune protection49.

ASTRAGALUS is traditionally used for its potent immune modulating actions.  It is not only indicated for chronic immune weakness, but also for immune hyperresponsiveness associated with allergies. Studies indicate that Astragalus significantly regulates the Th1 and Th2 immune response, by increasing expression of Th1 and decreasing Th2 dominance in allergic conditions.  It also reduces eosinophil infiltration, interleukin-4 and 13, and IgE concentrations, with a resultant alleviation of allergy symptoms91,92. Astragalus is also known for improving resistance against pathogenic infections.

SCHISANDRA is traditionally used to treat multiple immune disorders, including allergies, eczema and allergic skin conditions.  Research reports that Schisandra’s anti-allergy effects are related to inhibited degranulation, transcription, and translation of allergy-related inflammatory mediators in IgE-antigen complex cells88.  It reduces IgE, IgM and histamine serum level, decreases mast cell infiltration, alleviates epidermal hyperplasia and reduces scratch frequency89.

 SPIRULINA is well researched for its immune modulating activities.  It may enhance immune function by increasing cellular destruction of infectious agents, increasing antibody protection, and promoting production of other immune modulating chemicals.  Spirulina can also reduce immune system hyper-responsiveness as in the case of allergies, arthritis, and organ transplants90.

MORINGA LEAF exhibits significant immune-modulating properties, which can benefit skin health. According to the review by Pareek et al. (2023), moringa leaf contains bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, that help regulate immune system activity. These compounds enhance the body’s defence mechanisms by modulating cytokine production, balancing pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, and supporting overall immune homeostasis. By maintaining a well-regulated immune system, moringa leaf can help prevent and manage inflammatory skin conditions, such as dermatitis and psoriasis, as well as support the healing of skin infections and allergic reactions. 77

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS: According to Djuricic and Calder (2021), omega-3 fatty acids have notable immune-modulating effects that can benefit skin health. Omega-3s, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), influence the balance between T-helper 1 (TH1) and T-helper 2 (TH2) immune responses. Elevated TH2 activity is often associated with allergic reactions and inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis. Omega-3s help shift the immune response from a TH2-dominant state toward a more balanced TH1/TH2 profile. This shift reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promotes anti-inflammatory pathways, effectively mitigating the severity of allergic responses and improving skin health.  This modulation helps prevent and manage skin allergies and conditions like eczema 72.

LEMON BALM EXTRACT enhances immune function by regulating inflammatory responses and modulating immune cell activity. This modulation helps balance immune responses, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with skin allergies or inflammatory skin conditions. By supporting a well-regulated immune system, lemon balm can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions and inflammation, leading to improved skin health and reduced symptoms of allergic dermatitis and other skin-related issues 75.

ANTI-OXIDANT & DETOXIFICATION SUPPORT

To strengthen the natural defence systems and improve resistance against chronic disease conditions like allergies, autoimmunity, weakened immune function and chronic skin infections, it is vital to reduce the burden of internal toxic wastes and by-products, and heal inflammation caused.  This can be accomplished by:

• enhancing neutralisation of toxic products and free radicals through antioxidant scavenging,
• promoting efficient function of Phase I and Phase II enzyme detoxification systems. (Phase I enzymes metabolise toxins into reactive intermediates or free radicals) and Phase II enzymes neutralise the toxins from Phase I, and facilitate their excretion.)
• promoting elimination of these wastes via the liver, kidneys, lungs, digestive tract, and skin,
• and providing essential nutrients for optimal regeneration and healing.

SPIRULINA is a rich source of nutrients like protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants. It nourishes the body, protects against disease-causing agents, and promotes healing.  Spirulina supports systemic detoxification systems by neutralising and eliminating toxic chemicals like pesticides, chemical drugs and heavy metals like lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic.  It also protects against liver damage caused by such toxins 11-17.   Spirulina also enhances healthy probiotic levels which supports the detoxification of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and pathogenic organisms 72-83.

CURCUMIN supports detoxification of various circulating toxins by downregulating Phase I detoxification and upregulating Phase II detoxification systems.  In addition, to its depurative actions, its marked antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties provides Curcumin with great efficacy in reducing the total body burden of inflammatory- and toxic stress.  These types of stressors, weaken immune protection and predispose the mammal to skin diseases associated with microbial infections, allergies, cancer, and autoimmunity.

BURDOCK is traditionally known as a depurative, which enhances systemic detoxification systems, and promotes the elimination of toxins.  Burdock is also a liver protective extract.  It reduces toxin-induced liver damage by enhancing cytochrome P-450 detoxification of toxins, and increasing the activity of antioxidant glutathione to reduce inflammatory damage43,44.  Burdock is a bitter herb which stimulates bile secretion, enhancing elimination of toxins via the digestive tract.  As a diuretic, it also supports kidney function50,51, and promotes elimination of wastes via the kidneys. As a diaphoretic54, Burdock promotes the excretion of toxins via the skin.  Burdock is commonly used to treat various skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, acne, boils, abscesses, and allergic dermatitis.

SCHISANDRA exerts antioxidant and liver protective activities. Research show that it enhances detoxification, and protects liver cells against toxic damage, by reducing inflammation, neutralizing free radical-induced oxidative damage, and activating Phase II detoxification enzymes to facilitate elimination of the toxins93.

MORINGA LEAF is rich in antioxidants like quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. It also supports detoxification processes in the body, which can enhance skin clarity and overall health77.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS possess strong antioxidant properties that protect the skin from oxidative damage. They help in the detoxification of harmful substances by supporting liver function, which indirectly benefits skin health 72.

LEMON BALM EXTRACT possesses significant antioxidant properties that aid in natural detoxification processes and contribute to skin health. According to the review by Zam et al. (2022), lemon balm’s antioxidant activity helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can damage skin cells and exacerbate allergic reactions. By supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, lemon balm helps maintain skin integrity and resilience, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with allergies and promoting overall skin health. This antioxidant action not only helps in mitigating oxidative damage but also enhances the skin’s ability to recover from environmental stressors and inflammatory conditions 75.

ANTI-MICROBIAL PROTECTION

Chronic pathogenic infections detrimentally strain immune system function, and weaken important defence mechanisms.  It is then that the opportunity for secondary infections dramatically increases. If the animal is suffering from a chronic infection, it is of utmost importance to support and strengthen immunity, and eradicate any pathological organism as far as possible. Untamed SKIN + ADVANCED provides powerful and well researched nutraceuticals with strong antimicrobial bio-actives to naturally support the immune defence system in destroying and removing these pathological organisms, and improve immune protection against future attacks.

SPIRULINA strengthens immune function and displays significant antimicrobial activity against multiple pathogenic fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites, like E. coli, P. vulgaris, C. albicans, S. aureus, B. subtilis55,66.  Research shows that it has pronounced anti-parasitic activity against parasites like Demodex canis which cause inflammatory skin infection 18.

CURCUMIN significantly stimulates immune protection against multiple bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses which weaken immune defences, and decrease the resistance of the skin against microbial infections.  Curcumin provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection 36,37,34,64,65 against:

• bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiela pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, Salmonella and many others,
• viruses like influenza viruses, herpes, coxsackie, hepatitis viruses, papilloma viruses, encephalitis viruses and many more,
• and fungi like Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans, and other skin fungi like T rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, E. floccosum and M. gypseum, and parasites Schistosomas, Toxocara canis, Eimeria species, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Giardia lamblia, Leishmania and Cryptosporidium.

BURDOCK has antimicrobial activity against multiple bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, antifungal activity against Candida albicans40,41, and antiviral activity against Herpes viruses and adenovirus42.  These antimicrobial properties give Burdock significant potential for the treatment of various inflammatory and infectious skin disorders like eczema, acne, boils, and psoriasis.

ASTRAGALUS is clinically indicated for chronic infections, immune deficiency, cancer, chronic wounds and lesions, liver infection and heart disease.  It demonstrates significant antiviral properties and enhances immune function by various mechanisms like: increasing phagocytic activity of white blood cells, increasing the production of immune mediators like interferon, and improving natural killer cell activity 94-95. Astragalus may further reverse damages to the immune systems caused by toxic substances, radiation and ageing 96.

MORINGA LEAF exhibits notable antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective against a variety of pathogens that can impact skin health. According to the comprehensive review by Pareek et al. (2023), moringa leaf extracts have demonstrated activity against several bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria are commonly associated with skin infections and can exacerbate conditions like acne and wounds. Additionally, moringa leaf has shown antifungal effects against species such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, which are responsible for fungal infections that can affect the skin and nails. By combating these pathogens, moringa leaf helps protect the skin from infections and supports overall skin health77.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS support the skin’s barrier function, making it less susceptible to infections. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that help in the healing process of skin infections 72,74.

LEMON BALM EXTRACT demonstrates significant antimicrobial properties, including antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects, which support skin health and manage infections. Ali et al. (2019) showed that lemon balm exhibits strong antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as potent antifungal properties against common skin pathogens like Candida species. 75.

SCHISANDRA (SCHISANDRA CHINENSIS) exhibits significant antimicrobial activity, which contributes to its potential in promoting skin health. According to the review by Nowak et al. (2019), Schisandra extracts have demonstrated effectiveness against various pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, both of which are common culprits in skin infections. Additionally, Schisandra has shown inhibitory effects against fungi such as Candida albicans. This broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity makes Schisandra a valuable natural agent in preventing and treating skin infections, thereby supporting overall skin integrity and health 79.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROTECTION

Inflammation is the initiation phase of all chronic disease states like: autoimmune disease, psoriasis, skin allergies, eczema, skin cancers, Alzheimer’s, joint disease, asthma, fibromyalgia, cognitive decline, learning and behavioural problems, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, heart disease, eczema, lupus, stroke and many more.  Inflammation can exist for several years in an organism before clinical symptoms manifest.  It is triggered by factors like stress, allergens, toxins, unhealthy food, microbial infections and autoimmunity.  Inflammation can occur in two stages. The first stage, acute inflammation, is mediated by the immune system to heal damaged or infected tissue.  However, if the inflammation persists, chronic inflammation sets in which predisposes the organism to degenerative disease.  The constituents in Untamed SKIN+ ADVANCED is validated by research to provide effective anti-inflammatory protection against multiple inflammatory agents. They therefore support the body’s natural defence systems to initiate efficient tissue regeneration, alleviating the risk of chronic inflammation, and promoting restoration of all body tissues, including the skin.

SPIRULINA is a rich source of anti-inflammatory antioxidants like phycocyanin and beta carotene.  It is supported by numerous animal studies for its pronounced protective action against inflammatory insult form environmental toxins, heavy metals, chemicals, drugs, and inflammation.  Spirulina inhibits oxidative stress and inflammation caused by these agents, and significantly alleviates associated pathological degeneration56-63.

CURCUMIN, a powerful antioxidant, reduces inflammation by multiple mechanisms like inhibiting pro-inflammatory signalling, inhibiting immune cell migration to the active site of inflammation, and reducing excessive existing inflammation by decreasing the activity of inflammatory enzymes29-35.  Both Spirulina and Curcumin have remarkable wound healing abilities.

BURDOCK enhances systemic antioxidant protection and scavenges inflammatory free radicals.  It also inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine and prostaglandins38.  Burdock can also inhibit excessive production of nitric oxide which is involved in multiple inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmunity, atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation39.

SCHISANDRA, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, is effectively used for the treatment of various inflammatory and allergic skin conditions like contact dermatitis,87 and eczema.

MORINGA LEAF is highly effective in reducing inflammation, which is crucial for preventing and managing skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, and acne77.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS are well-documented for their potent anti-inflammatory effects, which significantly benefit skin health, as detailed in the review by Djuricic and Calder (2021). Omega-3s, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), modulate inflammatory pathways by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids. This action helps to diminish chronic inflammation and prevent excessive oxidative stress, which can contribute to skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema 72. 

LEMON BALM EXTRACT exhibits notable anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit skin health and manage infections. According to Zam et al. (2022), lemon balm’s active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and other polyphenols, effectively reduce inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. This anti-inflammatory action helps alleviate symptoms of various skin conditions and promotes healing by reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort. By mitigating inflammatory responses, lemon balm supports the skin’s ability to recover from infections and maintain its overall health, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare for its soothing and restorative effects74. 

Skin+ ADVANCED offers a comprehensive approach to addressing complex skin issues by targeting their root causes. Beyond merely alleviating symptoms, this advanced formulation tackles underlying factors contributing to skin problems, such as allergies, autoimmune conditions, and environmental stressors. By combining potent natural ingredients with a focus on addressing the core issues, Skin+ ADVANCED promotes true healing and restoration, ensuring healthier, more resilient skin for pets.