Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by dilation of capillaries in your skin, which causes red, bumpy skin blotches. This condition affects about 14 million people in the United States, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." The exact cause of rosacea is unknown; however, nutrient deficiencies, chronic alcohol use, prolonged sun exposure and stress may contribute to this condition. Although there is no known cure for rosacea, certain vitamins may help control this condition.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A serves several important functions in the human body. It is essential for fetal development and may help prevent osteoporosis. It also aids in the reproduction of healthy cells, which may promote skin healing. When applied externally in the form of retinoids, vitamin A may also help control rosacea and clear up outbreaks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin A is found in dairy products, red meats, eggs and chicken liver. Spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes and peaches contain beta-carotene, a caroteniod your body uses to manufacture vitamin A.
Vitamin B-5
Vitamin B-5, or pantothenic acid, may aid in the metabolism of fats from food sources. Fats are essential for the maintenance of healthy skin, according to Balch. This vitamin may also offer anti-stress benefits -- it may encourage the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter chemical that has a calming effect on the brain and central nervous system. The role of vitamin B-5 in serotonin production may reduce stress-related rosacea outbreaks. Lean pork, shellfish, mushrooms, rye and lentils are abundant sources of vitamin B-5.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an immune-system enhancing vitamin that helps your body fight bacterial and fungal infections that may worsen rosacea, according to Balch. It may provide antioxidant benefits to help prevent free radical damage to your skin. Vitamin E also stimulates the production of collagen, a substance that aids in the repair of skin tissues. Boost your vitamin E intake by consuming foods such as hazelnuts, avocados, brown rice, kelp, eggs, cornmeal, sunflower seeds and watercress.
Vitamin C
Like vitamin E, vitamin C may help prevent free radical molecules from damaging your skin and worsening the appearance of rosacea, according to Balch. This vitamin may also stimulate immune system function to help prevent bacterial and fungal skin infections. Vitamin C may also help reduce skin inflammation associated with rosacea. Citrus fruits are among the most well-known food sources of vitamin C; however, you can also obtain this vitamin from broccoli, spinach, mangoes, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, berries, tomatoes and turnip greens.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin A (Retinol)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, et al.; 2010
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