Zinc Aiding In AcneTreatment

Zinc is essential element for several body functions including normal pubertal development. Patients with acne have been reported to have lower blood levels of zinc and some investigators have even reported beneficial effects of zinc in the treatment of acne. Other investigators however, have not been able to show any difference between zinc-treated and placebo-treated acne patients. However, there is theoretical evidence why zinc may help acne. Zinc has anti-inflammatory action, plays a role in androgen metabolism and also influences Vitamin A metabolism. The dosages of zinc used for the treatment of acne are high and nausea is frequent. Furthermore, there is concern that the high dosages of zinc used in treatment may interfere with the absorption of other essential elements such as copper. Presently, the jury is still out about zinc and until more convincing evidence becomes available, I would not advise zinc supplements for acne. In any case, many items in our diet such as beef, lentils, wholegrains, nuts and oysters already contain relatively high amounts of zinc. Zinc also binds to tetracycline and prevents its absorption.


NO MORE PIMPLES, A SELF-CARE GUIDE, DR. LIM KAH-BENG