Can Vitamins Get Rid of Oily Skin?

A vitamin deficiency may result in oily skin and acne. Some vitamin supplements may treat deficiencies and prevent excess oil secretions by controlling certain hormone levels while others have antioxidant properties that support your immune system 1. Maintain the recommended dose suggested by the manufacturer or your physician when taking vitamin supplements for oily skin 1. As well, never substitute vitamin supplements for healthy foods; consult your physician for any adverse reactions between vitamins and prescribed medication 1.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, known as ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin found in certain foods. It is essential for healthy skin and produces collagen, which repairs and protects the immune system. It also has antioxidant properties that protect your skin from free radicals. Exposure to environmental pollutants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution and ultraviolet sunlight create free radicals that may clog pores and create oily skin. The recommended dose for women is 75 mg per day, for men 90 mg per day.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Your skin cells depend on sebum production. However, an over-production of sebum may attract bacteria and dead skin cells, resulting in blackheads and acne. Omega-3 fatty acids help control the hormone androgen from producing too much sebum. Omega-3 fatty acids also help control flaky skin before the onset of blackheads and acne occurs. Cold water fish such as trout, sardines, salmon and mackerel have high levels of docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, which is used for omega-3 supplements. The recommended dose for adults is 1,000 mg per day.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A has antioxidant properties that support the elimination of toxins, reduce oil production and aid in the repair of skin tissue. Retinoid is derived from vitamin A and may relieve excess oil secretion when applied topically, as recommended by your dermatologist. The recommended dose for women is 700 mcg per day, for men 900 mcg per day. Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin therefore consuming too much may be toxic.

Zinc

Zinc supplements provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties essential for oil-producing glands. Zinc is not created by your body, it must come from a dietary source or supplement. You require a small amount of zinc daily. However, a diet deficient in zinc may cause breakouts to occur. The recommended dose for an adult is 40 mg per day. Zinc may interfere with drugs prescribed to treat oily skin such as tetracycline. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking zinc supplements.