Vitamins to Prevent Acne

Vitamins to Prevent Acne
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The primary cause of acne is a hormonal imbalance that is prevalent during the years of puberty. Surges of testosterone and premenstrual hormones trigger the production of increased sebum in the sweat glands, which combines with dead skin cells to clog the pores, resulting in acne. Measures to prevent acne include diet, hygiene, nutritional supplements and medicines. Prescription drugs can cause problems, but natural supplements, such as vitamins, have no side effects.

Vitamin A

This vitamin is essential for the maintenance and repair of the tissue that comprises the skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin A with carotenoids strengthens the protective tissue of the skin as well and also reduces the production of sebum. Vitamin A is also an antioxidant. Antioxidants can contribute to the reduction of acne by relieving your body of oxidative stress caused by free radicals. A deficiency in vitamin A can cause acne. You can take up to 10,000 IU if you are an acne sufferer unless you are pregnant, in which case 5,000 IU is the maximum.

Riboflavin

This vitamin, commonly referred to as vitamin B2 works in conjunction with vitamin A to maintain and improve the mucous membranes in your digestive tract. Healthy skin is a reflection of the purity of your inner workings, the same as healthy hair and nails. Acne is one of the symptoms of a riboflavin deficiency. To fight acne, take a 100mg dose of vitamin B2, three times daily.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C and bioflavonoids are required for at least 300 metabolic functions in the body, including the enhancement of the immune system, which can protect the skin against infection. This vitamin is also responsible for tissue growth and repair. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which will relieve your skin of oxidative stress, similar to vitamin A. Bioflavonoids have an antibacterial effect. To fight acne, take 1,000mg of vitamin C, three times daily.

Zinc

This vitamin helps with the healing of the tissues and to prevent scarring, which can be an after effect of intense acne. Zinc also helps prevent acne before it starts by regulating the activity of the oil glands. Zinc promotes a healthy immune system and is an antioxidant. To fight acne take 25 to 30mg daily.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jun 2, 2010

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