Tweet

Clearing Acne with the Help of Vitamins

Introduction to acne - explaining causes & types of acne.

Taking vitamins and minerals can help balance the body's hormonal and nutritional needs and are clinically proven to be effective in acne treatment.

Acne researchers have indicated that people with acne have low levels of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid belonging to the omega 6 family. Udo Erasmus, a respected authority on essential fatty acids, attributes acne to a combination of several nutritional deficiencies as well as an overconsumption of saturated and altered fats (trans fats, hydrogenated fats as from fried food and margarines).

Vitamins for acne

Experts suggest supplementing with the following:

1. Vitamin A - Strengthens the protective tissue of the skin and prevents acne by reducing sebum production. Acts as powerful antioxidant to flush out free radicals and toxins from your body which improves wrinkling and fine lines.
   NOTE: Vitamin A taken at greater doses than the recommended daily allowance should only be done under qualified supervision, and should not be done by pregnant women.
2. Vitamin B6 - Controls premenstrual acne outbreaks due to hormonal imbalances. By metabolizing fats and fatty acids, vitamin B6 balances oil production in the skin.
3. Vitamin B5 - A clinical trial using vitamin B5 for acne (pantothenic acid) was successful. People with acne were given 2.5 grams of pantothenic acid four times a day, which is a lot! With moderate acne, near-complete relief was seen within two months. Cream containing 20% pantothenic acid vitamin for acne was also used in this trial.
4. Zinc - Clinical studies have shown that zinc supplements, as well as a vitamin for acne, also reduce the severity of acne. In one study, zinc for acne was found to be as effective as oral antibiotic therapy. People with acne should take 30 mg of zinc two or three times per day for a few months, then 30 mg per day thereafter. It may take up to twelve weeks before any improvement is seen.
5. Selenium - An antioxidant trace mineral that plays an important role in controlling inflammation associated with acne.
6. Chromium - Known to enhance insulin sensitivity, which, according to Murray and Pizzorno, has been reported in an uncontrolled study to induce rapid improvement of acne patients.
7. Essential fatty acids - These are strongly recommended for acne - 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil, supplying the omega 3 fatty acids, (or the equivalent in grams in capsules - about 6g or 6 x 1g capsules) and 2g of omega 6, or omega 6 derivative oils, like evening primrose oil.

RELATED INFORMATION

• Other treatments to acne
• Combatting with acne scars
• Vitamins for healthy skin
• At home acne remedies

Back to vitamins information home page.

Leave your comments