Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and apart from its many functions vitamin A is essential for maintaining health of the skin. It is used in many products for stretch marks, scars, liver spots, wrinkles and is also used in certain skin conditions such as psoriasis. So it is no wonder this vitamin is also used in treatment for acne.
A Link between Vitamin A and Acne
Some experts claim that people who are suffering from vitamin A deficiency are prone to acne. This may be true since vitamin A is a mighty protector and nourishing substance of the skin. Vitamin A can limit excessive production of sebum. This way the initial phase of acne formation can be successfully prevented. Furthermore, being a powerful antioxidant vitamin A prevents harmful effects of free radicals, strengthens the immune system and efficiently eradicates bacteria that are responsible for the occurrence of acne. And finally, by making certain repairs and maintaining adequate strength of the skin vitamin A can prevent arbitrary acne eruptions. All the previously mentioned would drive us to the conclusion that each and every person should take vitamin A on a daily bases. Recommended daily doses are 2,310 IU for women and 3,000 IU for men. Vitamin A supplements can be only taken after consultation with a doctor since optimal intake is achieved by well balanced diet. Excessive intake may cause vitamin A toxicity.
Vitamin A Products for Acne
Today there are several medications used in treatment for acne and based on vitamin A. These medications are actually made of derivates of vitamin A. The most common are adapalene, isotretinoin, tazaroten and tretinoin.
Adapalene can be applied topically in a form of cream and gel. Some doctors consider adapalene more effective comparing to tretinoin. It is used once a day after the face is washed with water and face wash. This is best performed prior going to bed. Tazaroten is another member of retinoid group of medications. It is applied in a form of gel. The application of tazaroten is actually the same as in case of adapalene.
Isotretinoin is definitely the most potent retinoid and is usually prescribed to patients who have tried all other available adult acne treatment modalities which have not led to desirable results. This is a medication with many side effects and is only prescribed if absolutely necessary. During the treatment the patients must be monitored all the time and undergo periodical exams and tests related to function of certain organs such as the liver, kidneys etc. And finally, tretinoin is apart from treatment for acne used in wrinkle and stretch mark removal. It is never given to patients with extremely sensitive skin.
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