Affecting up to 80 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 35, acne is a common skin complaint. Characterized by blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, acne can cause emotional stress and lower self-esteem in sufferers.
Though acne is more common at the onset of puberty in teens, it can also affect adults and menopausal women. Contributing factors of acne are imbalances of hormones, candidiasis, allergies, environmental pollutants and the use of oral contraceptives. Many people who suffer from acne conditions use over-the-counter facial products, medicated prescriptions or topical acne ointments. Many treatments for acne are out there, including the use of natural supplements and vitamins to improve skin conditions.
Potassium
Potassium is one of the most important minerals needed by your body, a vital mineral needed for cellular functioning, the building of muscles, proper kidney function, nerve transmission and the conversion of glucose into energy. Acne can often occur as a result of a potassium deficiency, believed to be caused by excess caffeine, high sodium diets, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis or an excessive amount of aldosterone in the body. Supplementing with potassium can strengthen the immune system and improve acne symptoms.
Zinc
Zinc is necessary for the functioning of more than 300 different enzymes and 200 different hormones in the body. Zinc's immunity-enhancing ability is used in treating the common cold, in addition to its antiviral and wound healing abilities. Zinc is also involved in collagen formation in the body, which is needed for normalizing the production of skin oils. Used topically, zinc oxide can be applied on affected areas to improve skin conditions such as acne.
Vitamin A and Essential Fatty Acids
Based on the studies from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, Vitamin A has been shown to improve skin conditions such as acne. Vitamin A is necessary for the maintenance of hormone balance and healthy skin. Research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology shows that essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fish oils, can assist in regulating hormonal imbalances to improve acne symptoms.
Vitamin E
A lack of vitamin E has not been shown to cause imbalances in the body, yet used therapeutically can be beneficial for the immune system. Due to its strong antioxidant properties, Vitamin E helps to protect cell membranes and maintain healthy skin levels by eliminating free radicals. Vitamin E also provides nourishment to cells and strengthens capillary walls. Used both topically and orally, Vitamin E treatments have been shown to improve acne symptoms in men and women.
Chromium
Chromium is related to blood sugar levels and insulin. Researchers have found that people with a high incidence of acne also have unstable blood sugar levels. Commonly found in brewer's yeast, molasses and wheat germ, chromium has been shown to help reduce acne symptoms and regulate blood sugar levels.
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