Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin and it is characterized by pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and in severe cases, nodules and cysts. The exact cause of acne is unknown and there is no one cure that will work for everyone when it comes to treating acne. However, studies have found that zinc supplements can help to reduce acne frequency and severity in many individuals. As with any nutritional supplement, you should talk to your doctor before taking zinc.
Zinc Basics
Zinc is an essential mineral and it is found naturally in foods such as brewer's yeast, egg yolks, fish, oysters, sunflower seeds and liver. Research suggests that people with acne often have lower levels of zinc in their blood and skin cells. Although clinical studies examining the effectiveness of zinc have been small, most suggest that zinc supplementation can improve acne, states "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database."
Mechanism of Action
According to Phyllis Balch and James Balch, M.D. in their book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," correcting a zinc deficiency may help to treat acne through a variety of mechanisms. Zinc promotes a healthy immune system and enhances wound healing. It also regulates the oil producing glands of your skin. In addition, it helps to protect your liver from damage; an under-functioning liver is often associated with acne, states the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. Zinc is also required for synthesis of collagen, which helps to prevent and heal acne scars.
Zinc, SOD and Vitamin A
Zinc's relationship with superoxide dismutase, or SOD, and vitamin A, may also play a role in how zinc helps fight acne. Zinc is a vital constituent of SOD, and required for its synthesis in your body. SOD is an essential enzyme found in all living cells and it helps to reduce inflammation and regenerate healthy skin tissue. According to the Balches, zinc also enhances the absorption of vitamin A, which is a potent antioxidant that helps to strengthen the protective layer of your skin.
Zinc Deficiency and Acne Study
The August 1992 edition of "Acta-Dermato Venereologica" examined the effects of zinc supplements on acne. In the study, 20 acne sufferers were given 200 mg a day of zinc gluconate for two months. At the end of the study, researchers noted a significant decrease in inflammation of the skin. The study hypothesized that zinc helps to treat acne by inhibiting a zinc deficiency-induced leukocyte chemotaxis reaction. Leukocyte chemotaxis is a process where your immune system releases the compounds -- neutrophils and monocytes -- which can subsequently accumulate at certain spots on the skin and contribute to inflammatory lesions.
Considerations
For the prevention or correction of a zinc deficiency, the commonly recommended dose of zinc ranges from 30 mg to 80 mg per day. Zinc may cause unwanted side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, and consuming zinc with meals can help to negate these effects.
References
- "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database"; Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2011
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, MD; 2003.
- Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; "Pathology and Nutrition"; 2008
- "Acta-Dermato Venereologica"; Zinc Salts Effects on Granulocyte Zinc Concentration and Chemotaxis in Acne Patients; Dreno B et al; August 1992
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