Acne vulgaris or pimples or simply acne is a skin condition that results in red bumps, blackheads, whiteheads, and pus-pilled pimples. These generally appear on the face, neck, shoulder, and back. Acne appears when the pores in our skin get clogged. These pores contain oil glands that keep the skin lubricated and soft and help remove dead skin cells. Sometimes, due to excess oil secretion, dirt, and dead skin, these pores get blocked, making them a breeding ground for bacteria on the skin. The resulting inflammation is known as acne. There is no cure as such for acne; however, medication and appropriate diet can help reduce it.

What about Vitamins?

Vitamins are considered vital for general well-being, and they are needed by the body in right amounts to maintain healthy bodily functions. Vitamins need to be replenished every day as most of them are not produced or stored in the body. What we eat thus becomes very important to ensure that we get all the required vitamins.

Vitamin B Complex and Acne

B complex vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin. They are considered an extremely important group of vitamins that help boost blood circulation, aid in the conversion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy; help in digestion, ensure healthy nails, hair and skin, lower stress levels, and improve the health of the immune system.

However, too much of anything can be bad, and so it is with vitamin B complex which can cause pimples. Vitamins B6 and B12 are linked to triggering acne when taken in large doses. A high dose of vitamin B supplements can set off a sudden bout of severe acne. In some cases, stopping the supplements has to be immediate and medication is the only way to stop the breakouts. In others, the acne does not respond to treatment and the skin condition improves when the use of vitamin B complex supplements is stopped.

The recommended daily dose of B vitamins is 2.4 mcg, and is slightly more if a woman is pregnant. If one takes vitamin B supplements in addition to vitamin B rich foods there is a risk of acne. In some cases, vitamin B deficiencies are treated with vitamin B injections; it is important need to consult a doctor about diet and dosage for the same to prevent adverse reactions.

Here are some acne removal tips for mild acne. In serious cases, it is best to consult a dermatologist who can diagnose the root cause of the acne and provide adequate treatment.

  • Mint juice, and lemon juice can be applied on the skin to clear acne as they are good astringents that help clear the clogged pores.
  • Garlic is effective for treating acne. Garlic can be crushed and applied on the skin to remove spots and pimples. If taken internally, garlic purifies the blood stream, which indirectly prevents acne.
  • Cucumber juice can be applied to on the skin clear acne.
  • It is best to avoid alcohol and smoking.
  • Exercising regularly to flush out toxins and relax the body and mind is also recommended.

Acne is best countered when the needed nutrients and vitamins and minerals are supplied through every day diet, rather than through supplements, which can set off acne. Your diet should consist of fruits, nuts, vegetables, lean meats, and greens that will provide the required nutrients and keep the skin hydrated and soft. The high fiber in fruits and vegetables helps in clearing the toxins from the body and prevents acne.

Reference:

  1. Sherertz EF, Acneiform eruption due to "megadose" vitamins B6 and B12. Department of Dermatology, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27103.
  2. T Jansen, R Romiti, A Kreuter, P Altmeyer, Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 15, Issue 5, September 2001.