Help! I Got Zits!

We usually call it zit, the book call it acne. Occurs when the sebaceous glands at the base of the hair follicles of the skin secrete too much sebum. This thick, oily substance is normally released from the pores to keep the skin lubricated and healthy. If the sebum backs up, it can form hard plugs that block the pores that cause pimples. If one of these oil plugs ruptures beneath the skin's surface, a localised bacterial infection can develop.

Hormonal imbalances can lead to an overproduction of sebum, which is a common problem during adolescence, especially for boys. For women, menstrual periods or pregnancy can also create acne-producing hormonal disturbances. Other than that, emotional stress, the friction or rubbing clothes against skin, and certain medications, particularly steroids, contraceptive or drugs that effect hormone levels could triggers acne. However, sayings about eating chocolate, nuts, fatty snacks or drinking soft drinks could cause acne are totally a myth.

So, how can supplements help? Vitamin A is important because it controls the overproduction of sebum, which is the main cause of acne. While Vitamin B6 may be useful for acne aggravated by menstrual cycles or menopause. And Vitamin C boosts the immune system, helping the acne-causing bacteria in check. Taken with any or all these vitamins, zinc enhances immune function, reduces inflammations and promotes healthy hormone levels. But keep in mind that copper should be taken with zinc to avoid anaemia. It may also help to take along zinc with essential fatty acids such as flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil in order to dilute the oily sebum, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores.

What else you can do? Well, firstly, wash daily using ordinary soap and water. Next, eat a balanced diet. You should also choose cosmetics labelled 'noncomedogenic' or 'oil-free'. Most importantly and we all know this, do not pick on your pimples!