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.
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Causes
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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
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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.
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Vitamin Supplements
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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
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The herb chasteberry is beneficial in helping to reduce acne. Chasteberry has antibacterial properties.
Herbal Formulas
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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
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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.
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