Acne affects approximately close to 40 to 50 million people in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The exact causes of acne are unknown, but it is generally accepted that the key contributors to acne formation include bacteria, inflammation, clogged pores and excess oil. To help of combat acne development, a selection of vitamins and minerals can be used to reduce the severity of acne.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is effective in reducing acne formation by decreasing the production of sebum. Sebum is essential for your skin as it helps to prevent dry skin -- however, excess oils can overwhelm your pores, causing acne. According to the Vitamin & Nutrition Center, vitamin A is important for keeping the protective tissue of your skin strong -- preventing skin cells and tissues from bacteria. A deficiency in vitamin A can cause acne. Good sources of vitamin A are carrots and spinach.
B Vitamins
According to the Vitamin & Nutrition Center, B vitamins are important for reducing acne symptoms. Each B vitamin helps to prevent acne in its own specific way. For example, vitamin B1 or thiamine removes bacteria from your skin and also enhances your immunity -- while vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid is efficient in reducing stress, which may contribute to acne development in some people. Low levels of vitamin B6 or pryridoxine, vitamin B2 or ribolfavin and vitamin B3 or niacin may cause acne. B vitamins can be found in whole grains.
Zinc
Zinc is an important mineral to help fight acne, as it contains antioxidant properties that protect your skin from bacteria. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, when zinc is used in conjunction with topical antibiotic erythromycin, it may be beneficial in helping to reduce acne. Zinc can be found in foods such as red meats, mushrooms and oysters.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C works with bioflavonoids (another form of vitamin C) to help prevent the formation of acne by acting as an antixoidant. Bioflavonoids have an antibacterial effect, while vitamin C helps to protect your body from bacteria and also provides your immune system with a boost, according to the Vitamin & Nutrition Center. Vitamin C can be found in oranges and other citrus fruits.
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