Acne is one of the most common skin diseases in the United States and according to the American Dermatology Association, this non-contagious ailment affects over 60 million Americans.

Additionally, only 11% will see a physician about the problem. With this in mind, there are many natural, holistic remedies that can improve the condition.

Acne is caused by a combination of elements, such as hormones, physical irritation, pollutants in the environment, genetics, certain prescribed medications, oil-based cosmetics and even stress. Furthermore, the American Academy of Dermatology states that, “A healthy diet is important for improving raw materials for healthy skin”. The skin is the largest organ of the body and requires proper nutrients for optimal health.

According to How to Heal Your Acne Naturally – An Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Clear Skin, certain vitamins and minerals are antioxidants and flush out acne-inducing toxins from your body. Of course like any other treatment, you should never exceed the recommended dose of vitamins and minerals because it can be toxic and very dangerous to your system.

Vitamin A, with carotenoids, is fat-soluble, strengthens the protective tissue of the skin, reduces sebum production and helps to maintain and repair the tissue that skin and mucous membranes consist of. The recommended dosage is 10,000 IU, or 5,000 IU if you are pregnant. Foods that naturally contain Vitamin A include carrots, tomatoes, spinach, parsley and apricots.

A complex of B vitamins maintains healthy skin tone and reduces stress. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is an antioxidant that aids in digestion and circulation and 100 mg should be taken 3 times a day. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) help maintain healthy skin, hair and nails as well as maintain the mucous membranes of the digestive tract and is taken in the same dosage at Vitamin B1. Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) reduces cholesterol, metabolizes protein, fat and sugar and improves circulation and you can take 200 mg of this vitamin 3 times a day. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) aids in the function of the adrenal glands and reduces stress and can be 100 mg can be taken 3 times per day. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) helps in antibody production and aids the immune system and 100 mg should be taken 3 times a day. Vitamin B complexes can be found in foods such as fish, milk, meat, eggs, whole grains, leafy green vegetables, liver, lean meats, peanuts, liver and avocados.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is an antioxidant that aids in 300 metabolic functions within the body, protects against infection and had an antibacterial effect. The recommended dosage to combat acne is 1000 to 1600 mg 3 times a day. However, patients with diabetes should consult with a physician about the recommended dosage that would be appropriate.

Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that protects the cells from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced from radiation, the air, pollution and peroxides. Vitamin E also prevents cell damage by inhibiting the oxidation of fats. A dosage of 400 IU of this vitamin should be taken to treat acne. Vitamin E can be found in foods such as broccoli, wheat germ, almonds and vegetable oil.

Chromium, or chromium picolinate aid in reducing skin infections. Most people are chromium deficient because the chromium in foods is not easily absorbed and gets lost during processing. The best way to ensure you are getting the proper level of chromium is to take a supplement of 150 mcg per day.

Zinc is an antioxidant that boost the immune system, regulates the oil glands and promotes healing. The recommended dosage to combat acne is 25-30 mg per day. Zinc is found in foods such as nuts, mushrooms, eggs and whole grains.

Water also flushes toxins out of your body and 6-8 glasses should be consumed on a daily basis. Keeping a diary of your food and vitamin consumption may prove to be helpful in determining the effectiveness of naturally treating your acne condition.