Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne, marked by large, painful, pus-filled lesions on the skin. Cystic acne can be the result of hormonal changes in the body -- including around the time of a women's menstrual cycle. Premenstrual cystic acne can be an indicator that a women is about to start her menstrual cycle.Traditional acne treatments center around medications and facial cleansers. However, vitamins, and a well-balanced diet, can be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of premenstrual cystic acne.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important in the treatment of all types of acne. Vitamin A is so important in the treatment of acne that is is often found in retinoids. Retinoids are prescription, topical acne creams often prescribed by dermatologists for the treatment of acne that will not respond to over-the-counter cream, ointments and cleansers. Vitamin A helps to promote cellular turnover and keeps your pores from becoming clogged with dirt, oil and bacteria, according to "The Vitamin Book." Adequate supplies of vitamin A in your daily diet can help keep your skin clear and improve the texture of your skin. Vitamin A can be found in a number of dietary sources like milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, fish and fish oils.
Vitamin B Complex
The vitamin B complex is a group of eight B vitamins that help to metabolize food into fuel sources that can be used by your body for numerous processes, according to "The Vitamin Book." B vitamins can also be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of acne. Vitamin B2 is beneficial in reducing stress; stress can increase the presence of breakouts, especially around the time of a women's menstrual cycle. Foods high in vitamin B2 include meat, eggs, whole gains, milk, fish and green, leafy vegetables. Another B vitamin beneficial in the treatment of cystic acne is vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 helps to improve circulation throughout the body, including to the skin. Improved circulation can help oxygen and blood reach the skin, allowing for smoother, healthier-looking skin. Sources of vitamin B3 include avocado, peanuts and eggs.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C -- or ascorbic acid -- is a powerful antioxidant that helps with over 300 metabolic functions of the body. Vitamin C helps to prevent and fight infections, including the bacteria and infections associated with cystic acne. Ascorbic acid also aids in the synthesis of collagen, which is vital for rebuilding and repairing skin. Sources of vitamin C include oranges, cantaloupe, tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, broccoli and lemons.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a vitamin that is essential for the care of your skin. As an antioxidant, vitamin E helps to protect your skin from the free radical damage, which can harm your skin and make breakouts more likely. Vitamin E also plays a key role in the healing and repair of damaged skin, including lesions from cystic acne. Vitamin E can be found in a number of food sources, including almonds, oats, grains, wheat germ, broccoli, sunflower seeds and peanuts.
References
- "The Vitamin Book": Harold M. Silverman, Joseph Romano and Gary Elmer; 2003
- Acne.org: Types of Acne
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