Acne, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is one of the common problems faced by people across the world. According to a study, acne is the 8th most common disease in the world (as of 2015). So, if you are having problems with pimples and blackheads and other symptoms of acne, you shouldn’t worry as millions are suffering from the same issues.
So, what causes acne? Acne is defined as a skin condition that is caused when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne causes symptoms like whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples, which usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Although acne is commonly found in teenagers, it affects people of all ages.
According to recent research conducted by Merita Grajqevci Kotori of the University of Kosovo, Vitamin A tablets have been highly effective in reducing the effects of acne in a small targeted group. Similar studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of topical dosages of Vitamin for Acne. In the following posts, we are going to take a closer look at the effect of Vitamin A on acne and how you can use it to treat your acne symptoms.
As said before, using Vitamin A(1) for Acne has yielded some positive results, both in a research environment and individual use. So, how does it work?
Acne is primarily caused when the hair follicles and skin pores get blocked by oils or dead skin. This abnormality is caused by hormonal imbalances, improper lifestyle, or even due to genetic causes.
Now, coming to the question – how useful is Vitamin A for Acne? A specific form of Vitamin A, called retinoid, helps in regulating the life cycle of the cells of the follicle lining. This prevents the accumulation of dead skin cells, thereby reducing pimples and other symptoms of acne.
Apart from regulating the life cycle of the cells lining the hair follicle, there are other ways in which Vitamin A for Acne can be helpful. Some of them are:
Vitamin A decreases inflammation, which controls redness, pimples, and blackheads. It is also helpful in promoting healthy skin cell growth. This heal lesions and scars, which might be caused in severe cases of acne. Certain studies have shown that it probably helps in decreasing sebum production, Vitamin A smoothens skin.
[Read: Baking Soda for Pimples]
Topical dosages of Vitamin A, especially retinoid, are more useful for treating acne(2). Topical dosages refer to the intake of tablets, usage of ointments and creams, etc. However, including Vitamin A in your daily diet might be useful as well, though not as high as topical dosages.
[Also Read: Natural Treatments for Acne]
How much vitamin A tablets for acne? Most tablets that are prescribed for treating acne contain Vitamin A dosages that range from 3 to 10 mg. They might also contain fatty acids and other compounds.
You also have Vitamin A Creams for Acne available in the market. There are primarily based on Retinoid compounds and have similar dosages as tablets.
[Also Read: Essential Vitamins to Heal Acne]
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), the daily recommended allowance for Vitamin A in adults is about 5000 IU (International Units).
However, it is recommended that you visit your doctor to know about the right dosage. Your doctor would be able to access your specific requirements and other factors and prescribe the right dosage for you.
[Read: Foods That Causes Acne]
Vitamin A can be highly effective in treating acne related issues. However, we would recommend that you have a detailed discussion with your physician/dermatologist before proceeding further with Vitamin A treatment. If you follow prescription and also, adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle, you would surely get freedom from acne related issues. Vitamin A doesn’t inherently have any side effects.
However, excessive intake might cause problems. You might want to avoid that! Just follow what your doctor says, and you would be able to treat acne with issues. We hope that you found the article on Vitamin A for Acne to be helpful. Listen to your doctor’s advice and live a healthy life!
[Read: Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne]
Let us take a look at some of the frequently asked questions about using Vitamin A for Acne treatment
Research has not been able to sufficiently prove the positive effects of dietary intake of Vitamin A. However. There have indications that including Vitamin A in your diet might help in preventing the onset of acne.
Well, it all depends on your specific issue. In most cases, positive results of using Vitamin A Creams for Acne can be seen in as little as just 2-3 weeks. However, in some instances, it might take longer. If it takes considerably longer, we would suggest that you get in touch with your dermatologist.
Excessive dietary intake of Vitamin A does have specific side effects. Vitamin A overdose can lead to liver damage. Pregnant women should be careful to avoid an overdose of Vitamin A.