by Gail Seymour

Created on: November 10, 2009

Since acne is a skin condition caused by over active sebaceous glands becoming clogged and infected by Propioni bacterium, many argue that it cannot be completely cured, only managed and treated.

Some further argue that acne is not affected or caused by poor diet or hygiene, and that is is genetic or hereditary. However, since treatments advised then include cleansing and topical treatments, or medications such as retinoids based on vitamin A, diet and hygiene issues clearly contribute to the condition.

It seems probable that once acne has taken hold, vitamin supplementation alone will be insufficient to affect a cure, and a cleansing regime will be needed to bring the acne back under control. This will generally consist of a mild cleanser followed by an oxygenating agent such as benzoyl peroxide, followed by a mild moisturiser. The cleanser clears away the accumulated debris around the hair follicles, allowing the anti bacterial benzoyl peroxide to penetrate the skin. However, a side effect of the oxygenating process is that it dries out the skin, and so a mild, non greasy moisturiser helps to re-balance it and reduce redness and irritation.

Since acne can be caused by hormonal imbalances, such as excessive testosterone and medications such as steroids, it seems foolish to dismiss the possibility of alleviating symptoms using internal fortification. Indeed, since some medications are based on natural vitamins, it would seem sensible to assume that these vitamins would beneficial. Also, even if supplementation cannot cure or prevent acne, it can certainly assist the skin in repairing itself and healing from the after effects, reducing visible scaring as a result of acne.

The antioxidant and antibacterial qualities of vitamins the skin needs to build and repair itself will also help keep your skin clear and help prevent clogging.

* Vitamin A helps strengthen the skins and reduces sebum production, thereby preventing blockage of the pores. Although deficiency could contribute to acne, high doses can be toxic, and should not be taken in conjunction with oxygenating topical creams or by pregnant women.

* The Vitamin B complex is a group of vitamins that enhance circulation, digestion, healing and hormone balance. They are essential to healthy hair, skin and nails, as well as boosting the immune system.

* Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen. It also protects against infection and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

* Vitamin E is important for skin, helps prevent cell damage and aids healing and tissue repair.

* Vitamin K, or phytonadione, can strengthen the skin, speed healing and diminish bruises or discoloration. It is a popular ingredient in anti-aging medications because it helps to reduce fine lines, spider veins, and dark circles under the eyes.

It is not just vitamins that can help in the fight against acne though, minerals too are important.

* Chromium can help reduce skin infections, but it is not readily absorbed, and so a chelated supplement such as chromium picolinate is most useful to the body.

*Zinc aids absorption of vitamin A and also regulates levels of vitamin E. It can help aid regulate the activity of sebaceous glands and production of male hormones and help prevent scarring. However, too much Zinc can cause severe stomach pains, so it's use must be carefully monitored.

A good quality supplement that contains a balance of the above vitamins and minerals will support the skin in its battle against acne, and reduce any scarring caused by it. Whether or not this will cure the individual remains a matter of debate, but it will certainly assist in overall health and provided levels of Vitamin A and zinc are kept to a safe level, will do no harm.

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