Acne occurs when an excess amount of sebum (an oily substance produced by blands that lubricates and moistens the skin) blocks the skin’s pores at the base of hair follicles, causes small pus-filled eruptions to appear on the face, cheat, shoulders, and back.
Pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads are the characteristics of this condition, which can be managed by simple self-care measures, topical medications, or under the supervision of a dermatologist. though most forms of acne are mild, in its severe form (cystic acne), permanent pits and scars can occur, especially if skin lesions are picked at and squeezed.
One of the most common of all skin problems, acne generally afflicts adolescents, teenagers and young adults, though some older people who also suffer from acne. Although it is not a dangerous condition, acne can nonetheless cause distress and discomfort for young people in particular, who may, as a result, suffer from poor self-image, social isolation, depression and anxiety.
What Causes It
Acne is often triggered by hormonal activity, which can increase the production of sebum. Though the hormonal shifts of adolescence make teenagers the primary victims of acne, women who are pregnant, menstruating, or in menopause are also susceptible. Certain medications (such as steroids or oral contraceptives) that affect hormones, as well as stress, can all contribute to the overproduction of sebum and therefor to acne. For some people there may be a genetic component that contributes to the onset of the condition.
How Food May Help
One of the prevailing beliefs about acne is that certain foods – such as chocolate or pizza – can cause it or make it worse, but this is just a myth. There are, however, certain foods that can help to promote optimal skin health.
Many skin conditions seem to respond to vitamin A, which appears to have a beneficial effect on cell growh and maturation. The best dietary sources of vitamin A are found in foods rich in beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A. Some studies indicate that beta-carotene protects the skin from free radical stress, and, though research is conflicting, there is also some evidence that it reduces sebum production.
Since inflammation is one of the characteristics of acne, essential fatty acids may help alleviate the condition by hindering the body’s production of certain inflammatory compounds. Vitamin E is also helpful in maintaining healthy skin by teaming up with selenium to promote an enzyme called glutathione peroxidase, which may help to reduce inflammation.
The immunity-building mineral zinc may help to improve acne, perhaps through its involvement in hormone metabolism as well as the role it plays in healing. And some evidence shows that vitamin B6 may help to stabilize hormonal fluctuations that can cause acne.
Food Choices
Foods that contain beta-carotene
Apricots
Asparagus
Sweet potatoes
Winter squash
Foods that contain vitamin B6
Avocados
Bananas
Potatoes
Salmon
Foods that contain zinc
Crab
Oysters
Tofu
Turkey