Acne Information

Acne and Vitamin Supplements


For years, scientists, doctors, biologists, dermatologists, and dieticians have searched for and studied all of the various causes of acne. Since the majority of the worlds population suffer from acne at some point in their lives, there is no surprise that such efforts are invested in finding out how to it. While there have been some definitive answers on whether acne is hormonally induced (yes), and what can be done to prevent it (prescription drugs, certain herbal remedies, etc), there are still many unknown factors that cause acne.

However, of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to, the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.

Historically, diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion, and this in turn would create acne breakouts.

However, as time went on, science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat), and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores, there is no such thing as "extra oil secretion". So, for at least the last 15 years, western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.

However, a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the "diet causes acne" argument, and this time, with a bit more heat.

This study, conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung, states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is, Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones, and what breaks down fatty acids.

The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So, if there is a shortage of B5, there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A, the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones, not break down fatty acids.

So, you can see where this is going?more fatty acids, more sebum production, more acne.

Now, the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 ), and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3, sebum production was reduced, and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne, a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day), and treatment was prolonged to see an effect, sometimes up to 6 months.

So, while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne, it may well be worth considering, particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne, and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide, or other prescription acne treatments.

As with any medical treatment, it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.

Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and is the editor of acne treatments website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com


MORE RESOURCES:

CaymanMama.com (press release)

Roche ordered to pay $13M to users of acne drug
The Associated Press - Nov 20, 2008
All three began using Accutane a decade ago to treat teenage acne. One of the group is expected to soon have his colon surgically removed while the others ...
New Jersey Jury Awards $12.9 Million to Three Patients Whose Use ... MarketWatch
Roche drug litigation suit pays $13M to Accutane users CaymanMama.com (press release)
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Medi-Spa in Orlando is Now Offering Amazing Treatment to Reduce ...
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Medi-Spa in Orlando Reduces Acne Scarring & Renews Hope for many who have suffered with the painful reminder of acne for too long. ...


Three acne creams recalled
AAP News (subscription) - 17 hours ago
by David Ma - Editorial Intern Potential danger of bacterial infection from certain acne creams has prompted CSI USA, Inc., to recall all lots of 1 ounce ...


AsiaOne

The pill isn't the best answer for acne
AsiaOne, Singapore - Nov 19, 2008
By Thidakarn Ratanabanangkoon, MP Q. Does the birth-control pill cure acne? My 13-year-old daughter is getting a lot of pimples. ...


Alternatives for People Usig Antibiotics for Skin Conditions
American Chronicle, CA - 20 hours ago
Nobody can question their significance in medicine world but in this article we will see how they could be the cause of aggravated acne and other skin ...


The Money Times

CSI USA, Inc. Issues Voluntary National Recall of Topical Acne Cream
MarketWatch - Nov 13, 2008
No other acne medications sold by Dollar General, Kroger or Wal-Mart are affected by this recall. CSI USA, Inc. 170 Commerce Way Gallatin, TN 37066 Attn: ...
Various brands of acne creams are recalled The Money Times
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Acne gel being recalled
Capital News 9, NY - Nov 17, 2008
DG Maximum Strength Acne Medicated Gel sold at Dollar General and the Equate Medicated Acne Gel sold at Wal-Mart are being pulled off the shelves. ...


Medicated Acne Gel Recall: Sold at Wal-Mart, Kroger and Dollar General
AboutLawsuits.com - Nov 18, 2008
A recall has been issued for 1 ounce tubes of 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cream, which were sold as “Kroger Acne Gel”, “DG Maximum Strength Acne Medicated ...


Business Wire (press release)

Arcutis Pharmaceuticals Announces FDA Approval of Acanya™ Gel for ...
Business Wire (press release), CA - Nov 20, 2008
Evaluated in clinical studies enrolling over 3200 subjects with moderate to severe acne, Acanya Gel is the only FDA-approved fixed combination antibiotic ...


Benzoyl peroxide topical acne cream recalled
Prescribing Reference, New York - Nov 18, 2008
CSI, Inc. has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of all lots of 1oz (28g) tubes of 10% benzoyl peroxide acne cream because product samples were found to ...

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