Supplements for the Treatment of Acne

Acne is a common skin disease and can occur on the face, chest, shoulders, neck and back. There are a number of supplements on the market available for the treatment of acne.

Causes

• Hair follicles can become plugged with sebum, a skin lubricant of oils and waxes, and keratin, a protein of the outermost layer of skin. When the pores become clogged with these substances, acne is the result.

Mineral Supplements

• Three mineral supplements are recommended for the treatment of acne. These are zinc to improve skin health, selenium to help inhibit inflammation, and chromium, which helps break down sugar.

Vitamin Supplements

• Vitamin E helps inhibit acne inflammation. Vitamin A is effective in reducing sebum but only in high doses; its use should only be recommended and supervised by a doctor.

Herbal Supplement

• The herb chasteberry is beneficial in helping to reduce acne. Chasteberry has antibacterial properties.

Herbal Formulas

• Two Chinese herbal formulas contain cnidium seed and honeysuckle; both are beneficial for the treatment of acne. The two formulas are Cai Feng Zhen Zhu An Chuang Wan and Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin.

Warning

• Minerals, vitamins and herbs are considered dietary supplements by the FDA. Before adding supplements to a treatment plan, it is recommended that you consult a health care provider.