Nutritional Supplements for Acne

Treatments for severe acne usually involve regulating the hormones and increasing the intake of specific vitamins and minerals. While these can be obtained from food sources, nutritional supplements for acne help boost treatments and provide faster results. They also nourish the skin and decrease inflammation and infection. People with healthy skin can also use them for maintenance and prevention, especially if they are prone to outbreaks.

However, not all supplements will work for everyone. It is important to know what each supplement contains, in what amounts, and what effect it will have on your skin. Generally, nutritional supplements for acne should contain the following:

Vitamin A. Vitamin A the skin heal faster and improves skin quality. It can be taken anywhere within the treatment period, as well as afterwards to prevent future outbreaks. The recommended dose is about 25,000 units twice a day. It is commonly found in fish oils, so eat about two to three servings of oily fish every week.

Zinc and copper. Commonly found in skin ointments and balms, zinc speeds up the healing of skin tissue and minimizes scarring. It also acts as a barrier against germs and bacteria to prevent inflammation and infection. Zinc supplements are often combined with copper, because pure zinc tends to lower copper levels in the body. Take 50 mg of zinc with 5 mg of copper everyday. Do not exceed 100 mg of zinc per day, as this can be toxic in large amounts.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids are also commonly found in fish oils. Omega-3 fatty acids strengthen the cell membranes to help them better absorb nutrients. They also prevent bacterial infection and inflammation. Most nutritional supplements for acne contain omega-3 in small amounts, but cod liver oil is one of the best sources. The usual dose is one tablespoon per day. You can also take concentrated fish capsules containing 1,500 mg of EPA daily.

Acidophilus. This is a type of bacteria that helps promote proper digestion. It naturally occurs in the intestinal tract, but it is easily destroyed by digestive acids and normal intestinal contractions. If you have persistent skin problems, take regular supplements of acidophilus.

Digestive enzymes. Digestive or pancreatic enzymes help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. This helps minimize skin oiliness. If you have extremely oily skin, take regular nutritional supplements for acne containing amylase, lipase, and protease.

REMEMBER: Some nutritional supplements for acne claim to provide a complete cure, but they are still best combined with proper diet and skin care. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and limit your intake of fatty foods like meat and chocolate.

Also, some supplements contain additives that can be harmful to your skin and your overall health. To avoid these additives, make sure that the manufacturer you are buying from is pharmaceutical GMP compliant.

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