The body's chemistry is controlled by multiple factors, including diet, environment and family history. For instance, vitamin D assists with the absorption of calcium. Not taking enough vitamin D can lead to increased muscle pain and fatigue; taking too much vitamin D can lead to blood toxicity. While science has debunked the myth that junk foods, like chocolate and potato chips, cause acne, some nutritional imbalances can affect the frequency of breakouts. Some vitamins and natural elements have a direct impact on acne.
Vitamin B
One of the results of consuming B vitamins is a healthy skin tone. Vitamins B-1 (thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3 (niacin), B-6 (pyridoxine) and B-12 (cyanocobalamin) are essential components to maintaining well-balanced skin. However, when taken in large doses, the vitamins cause breakouts. A 1991 study published by Dr. E.F. Sheretz of Wake Forest University's School of Medicine leads the body of evidence showing that large doses of B-6 and B-12 can lead to acne flareups.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends 1.2 mg of thiamine, 1.3 mg of riboflavin, 16 mg of niacin, 1.3 mg of B-6 and 2.4 mg of B-12. These daily doses can typically be met through healthy eating or taking a multivitamin. Large doses are defined as more than 10 times the recommended daily intake.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an active ingredient in many topical acne treatments. However, too much of the vitamin can have an adverse effect. The USDA's daily recommended intake is 900 I.U. per day, an amount which can be easily attained with vitamin supplements and food. Vitamin therapy for acne may boost the body's vitamin A level into the 2,000 to 3,000 range. Dosages of 5,000 I.U. or more can cause blistering, peeling, dryness and more severe scarring acne.
Iodine
A lack of vitamins A and D can lead to breakouts, but so can drinking milk to supplement those deficiencies. Milk is fortified with these vitamins, but also has iodine. An additive to milk and component of some multi-vitamins, iodine is a proven cause of acne.
USDA reference levels show that for humans an adequate level of iodine is 150 I.U. per day, with a maximum safe level of 1,100 I.U.
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