Nutritional Supplements To Help Acne

Acne occurs when hair follicles under your skin get blocked and pimples form. Acne is commonly found on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back. According to MayoClinic.com, the overproduction of oil, the buildup of bacteria and the irregular shedding of dead skin cells contribute to the formation of acne.
Some supplements can be helpful for acne, although a health care professional should be consulted before taking any supplements.

Zinc

According to the MayoClinic.com dermatologist Lawrence E. Gibson, the mineral zinc may help to improve acne, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with wound healing.

The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 30 mg of zinc twice a day for a month, then 30 mg daily. The University of Michigan Health System says it may take 12 weeks to see an improvement. Long-term zinc supplementation may deplete copper levels in the body so the University of Michigan Health System also recommends taking 1 to 2 mg of copper daily to prevent a deficiency.

Zinc may interfere with prescribed medication for acne such as tetracycline, so consult a doctor before taking any zinc supplements.

Guggul

According to Drugs.com, the guggul tree, also known as Commiphora wightii, has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Guggul contains gum, resin and volatile oils. The plant steroid guggulsterone is found in the resin of the plant.

In a study published in a 1994 issue of the "Journal of Dermatology," researchers found 25 mg of guggulsterone twice a day was as effective as tetracycline in treating acne. Both treatments decreased inflammation and the number of relapses.

The University of Maryland Medical Center says anyone with a history or family history of breast, ovarian, prostate or any other hormone-related cancer should not take guggul, as it may have estrogen-like effects. Guggul also interacts with some medications, so consult a doctor before taking any supplements.

Echinacea

The herb echinacea is best known for preventing and treating colds and flu. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, echinacea's ability to fight infections and stimulate the immune system also means it can be helpful for skin problems such as acne.

The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 2 to 3 ml of echinacea, standardized tincture extract daily.