Beta-Carotene for Acne

Diet does not cause acne, but it can make it flare up in some people, leaving them battling more pimples and cysts. On the other hand, some foods can be beneficial for acne and skin health, including those rich in beta-carotene, such as cantaloupe, according to Nicholas Perricone, a dermatologist and author of “The Acne Prescription.” Consult a dermatologist — preferably one with experience in the role of nutrition in acne — before making changes to your diet to banish blemishes.

What Is Beta-Carotene?

Found in fruits and vegetables, especially colorful ones, beta-carotene is a carotenoid that your body converts into vitamin A, or retinol. In relation to acne, vitamin A is essential for a healthy immune system and healthy skin. As an antioxidant, beta-carotene also helps to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage and destroy cells and tissues, including those in your skin.

Antioxidants and Inflammation

By fighting free radicals, antioxidants also help to lower inflammation in your body, because when these unstable oxygen molecules damage cells and tissue, they become inflamed. Inflammation plays a significant role in acne, especially in cystic acne. In this most severe form of acne, inflammation penetrates deeply into the skin and causes large, painful, pus-filled cysts, which can leave permanent scars.

Beta-Carotene in Your Diet

One of the most important nutritional goals in controlling acne is lowering inflammation, notes Perricone. Adding foods such as those rich in beta-carotene is a good starting point. You’ll be spoiled for choice when looking for rich food sources of this nutrient. They include yellow, orange and green fruits and vegetables such as carrots, lettuce, spinach, cantaloupe and winter squash. It’s always best to get nutrients from whole foods, and your daily diet should consist of at least 2 ½ cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits if you’re an adult, according to the American Dietetic Association. But if these foods don’t tickle your taste buds and you would rather take a beta-carotene supplement, consult your doctor first.

Considerations

Although there are no studies proving the benefits of beta-carotene for acne, Perricone makes it quite clear that foods rich in this nutrient can help to treat this skin condition in some people. However, don’t rely on nutrition alone to clear up acne. A dermatologist can recommend suitable topical treatments such as those containing benzoyl peroxide, or oral medications such as antibiotics like tetracycline. Make sure you ask about the side effects of using these products for acne. They may include excessive skin peeling and irritation or sensitivity to sun.