Yes, taking zinc and vitamin A supplements may help improve acne symptoms, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
More detailed answer to your question
Yes, taking zinc and vitamin A supplements may help improve acne symptoms, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the growth and development of healthy skin cells. According to a study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, zinc supplementation can reduce acne lesions by up to 30 percent.
Vitamin A, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that helps to regulate the production of keratin, a protein that can clog pores and cause acne. According to a review published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, vitamin A supplements can reduce acne lesions by up to 45 percent.
It is important to note that both zinc and vitamin A supplements can have side effects, especially if taken in high doses. Common side effects of zinc supplementation include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while vitamin A supplementation can cause dry skin, headaches, and liver toxicity.
Before starting any new supplement regimen, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication.
As Hippocrates once said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” In addition to taking supplements, it is important to maintain a healthy diet rich in nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as minimize your intake of processed foods and added sugars.
Here is a comparison table of zinc and vitamin A supplements:
| Zinc | Vitamin A | |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended dose | 30-50 mg/day | 700-900 mcg/day or 10,000-25,000 IU |
| Food sources | Oysters, beef, chicken, beans, nuts, and whole grains | Carrots, sweet potatoes, liver, kale |
| Possible side effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea | Dry skin, headaches, liver toxicity |
| Interactions | Antibiotics, quinolone, and tetracycline antibiotics | Blood-thinning medications, retinoids |
Here are some other responses to your query
After four weeks, there was a significant decrease in the number of papules, pustules, and infiltrates in the zinc-treated groups. The effect of zinc plus vitamin A was not better than zinc alone. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean acne score had decreased from 100% to 15%.
You might discover the answer to “Can I take zinc and vitamin A for acne?” in this video
Lakisha Adams gives an update on her experience taking high dosages of vitamin A and zinc internally for three months to cure her cystic acne. She did not experience any purging and noticed her skin became smoother and clearer while not experiencing any cystic acne even 30 days after stopping. However, she did experience dry skin and skin sensitivity and stopped due to simplifying her routine and being on other pills for her weak immune system and thalassemia. She recommends undertaking research and consulting professionals before trying vitamin A and zinc for those with mild to severe acne.