Acne is a skin condition that causes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples that can be caused by bacteria. Acne can sometimes become infected and this can make it even more difficult to treat. Numerous over the counter and prescription medications can be used to treat acne. However, a number of minerals, some used topically and others taken orally, are also useful in treating this problematic condition.
Sulfur
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, sulfur is a mineral that has a distinctive rotten egg smell that is found near hot springs and volcanic craters. Sulfur has been used for thousands of years to treat acne and sulfur baths are still very popular to help with severe cases of acne. Sulfur helps to dry up acne breakouts and can even help with peeling away dead skin cells. It is an excellent topical treatment for clearing up blackheads and whiteheads that are caused by acne breakouts.
Zinc
According to the Vitamin and Nutrition Center, zinc is a mineral that helps to regulate oil glands and heal tissues and prevent scarring. Zinc helps to heal acne outbreaks because it contains antioxidants. The Vitamin and Nutrition Center suggests taking 25 to 30 mg of zinc per day in order to control and treat acne. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, high doses of zinc can cause anemia, vomiting and suppression of the immune system.
Chromium
According to the Vitamin and Nutrition Center, chromium helps treat acne by reducing the rate of skin infections. Chromium is usually a mineral that is lacking in the human body. Taking chromium supplements that can be purchased from your local health food store is an easy way to get more chromium into the body. According to the Vitamin and Nutrition Center, taking chromium picolinate or chromium polynicotinate are excellent choices for increasing the amount of chromium in the body and improving the problem of acne.
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