Clear and healthy skin contribute to a person's general health and self-image. While there are genetic and hormonal factors contributing to the presence of blemishes on the skin, adding specific vitamin supplements can have a beneficial effect on even severe skin outbreaks of any kind, as well as improving other unwanted skin conditions.
Treating Acne
The Green Beauty Guide lists vitamins A and E as important in treating and reducing acne. Topical applications of pure vitamin E oil in conjunction with other skin treatments encourage cell regeneration, which replaces cells that are damaged or dead from acne with healthy new cells. Vitamin A encourages production of sebum and body mucous, components of a healthy body that protect the skin from bacteria and other acne-causing organisms. Tretinoin, which is a vitamin A acid, can also be applied directly to the skin to help increase the rate of cell regeneration.
Reducing Age Spots
Older skin can develop dark patches or spots due to years of sun exposure. These skin irregularities can be treated with some success by applying tretinoin. Tretinoin works by causing a mild irritation to the skin that encourages the cells to divide and die more rapidly than normal, increasing the rate at which new cells are produced. As with acne, tretinoin used to treat age spots will gradually replace the skin affected by age spots with newer, lighter skin cells. Because these spots are often caused by sun exposure, dermatologists also recommend reducing time in the sun.
Minimizing Broken Blood Vessels and Redness
Health911.com lists several vitamins that can help to reduce the presence of splotches or spider veins on the skin. These conditions occur when the walls of blood vessels break down, so vitamin K can be used to strengthen and support the capillary walls. Vitamin B6 is also useful in boosting the immune system and encouraging cellular growth, vitamin C aids in circulation and vitamin E increases oxygen uptake within tissues to improve circulation and reduce swelling in affected areas. Vitamin A is also helpful but can be toxic in large quantities, so consult a physician before adding vitamin A supplements to your vitamin regimen.
