Nutrition and skin health are closely connected. In general, a diet of moderation where a large variety of nutrients and a limited amount of fats and sugars are consumed is considered to be the best for skin health. However, nutritional supplements are popular for maintaining over-all health and for treating numerous medical conditions. So, can taking supplements actually cause dry skin?
Vitamin A
Vitamin A supplementation is a mainstay of acne treatment. However, for those with normal to dry skin, large doses of vitamin A can lead to dry, peeling skin. Since "The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs, Minerals & Supplements" reports that dry, peeling skin and lips can be an early sign of toxicity, consult your physician immediately if you develop these symptoms while on a vitamin supplement that contains vitamin A.
Niacin
Niacin triggers a histamine response that can lead to flushed, warm skin. Over time, this can dry out the skin. To protect against this condition, Dr. Robert C. Atkins, the "diet doctor" and author, recommends starting niacin at low doses and gradually increasing. Also, taking niacin as part of a vitamin B complex may reduce some of niacin's side effects while improving overall effectiveness.
Vitamin Deficiencies
While few vitamin supplements can cause dry skin, many vitamin deficiencies have been linked with dry skin. Vitamin A may cause dry skin in large doses but vitamin A deficiency can cause many skin issues, including dry skin. According to the "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," deficiencies in vitamin E, D and C can also be responsible for dry skin.
General Information
Serious dry skin should be evaluated by a dermatologist before adding specific, high-dose supplements as a treatment. Supplementation for other conditions should be evaluated any time a new condition, such as dry skin, is detected, to protect against worsening adverse effects.
References
- "Dr. Atkins' Vita-Nutrient Solution"; Robert C. Atkins, M.D.; 1999
- Vitamins and Supplements Guide
- "Vitamins, Herbs, Minerals & Supplements: The Complete Guide"; H. Winter Griffith, MD; 1998
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC and James F. Balch, M.D.; 2000
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