Is Vitamin E Good for Acne?
One of the most common and chronic skin conditions is acne. Both teenagers and adults are afflicted with this problem. There are a few types of acne--ranging from the most common, acne vulgaris, to the most severe, cystic acne. But there are many remedies available to help with the treatment. In studies, Vitamin E has proven to be effective in treating acne.
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Identification
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Acne has many causes and types. Skin eruptions range from simple pimples to pustules. For many, oily skin is one of the main culprits. An overproduction of oil, called sebum, is created in the oil glands of the body. This overproduction is caused by fluctuating hormones. Because there are oil glands over many areas of the body, acne is found not only on the face, but also on the neck, chest, shoulders and back. The excess oil clogs and blocks the pores, which leads to acne. Dead skin cells also clog the pores. Bacteria can cause inflammation of the skin, and this infection can also result in acne. For some people, allergic reactions to laundry detergents or fabrics can cause irritation on the skin that makes a person more susceptible to acne breakouts.
Types
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Vitamin E is available in many forms. As a supplement it comes as a capsule, tablet or liquid. The vitamin E in supplements is available in natural or synthetic form. According to the National Institute of Health, the natural form is twice as active as the synthetic form. Vitamin E is also available as an oil or cream. This is used topically, or on the skin. Experts suggest using a pure form of Vitamin E oil that can be found in health-food stores. Another option is to open a Vitamin E capsule with a pin and squeeze out the oil.
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Function
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Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, so the body needs fats to absorb the vitamin. As a food source or supplement, vitamin E is very helpful to the immune system because it is a powerful anti-oxidant. As an anti-oxidant, the vitamin protects fats in the body from oxidation and also eliminates free radicals that can damage the skin. Some studies show that a lack of anti-oxidants can increase the likelihood of acne. Without these free radicals the skin is healthier at the cellular level. Vitamin E also helps to regulate vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for healthy skin. The recommended daily intake of vitamin E is 30 international units (IU). The maximum amount taken daily is 1,500 IU. If taking supplements, use the natural form of vitamin E and not the synthetic form. Studies have shown that vitamin E is a preventive solution to acne. A study in the "Journal of Investigative Dermatology" showed that vitamin E helped to prevent breakouts.
Prevention/Solution
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Many acne sufferers report that applying vitamin E oil to affected areas reduces scars and evens the skin tone. Some people also say the vitamin E oil accelerates the healing of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and other acne eruptions. Research has shown that topical use of vitamin E oil helps to unclog the pores, resulting in far fewer breakouts.
Considerations
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The best way to get enough vitamin E is from eating foods rich in this vitamin. Green leafy vegetables, yams, beans, sweet potatoes, corn, eggs, almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, wheat germ oil and raw honey are all good sources of vitamin E. If you don't think you are getting enough vitamin E, consider taking a supplement. Whatever methods you use, vitamin E will help treat or prevent acne.
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