Is vitamin C or vitamin A better for acne?

Author: Aniyah Pagac  |  Last update: Saturday, August 30, 2025

Both are beneficial – vitamin A regulates sebum production while vitamin C protects skin through its antioxidant effects. They work synergistically so combining both alongside other acne-fighting compounds like zinc creates an optimal supplement regimen for clear skin.

Which vitamin is best for acne?

Vitamin A, particularly in the form of retinoids like isotretinoin, is effective for treating acne. It helps regulate skin cell turnover, reducing clogged pores and inflammation. Other vitamins beneficial for acne include vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin C, which have antioxidant properties that support skin health.

Should I use vitamin C if I have acne?

KEY TAKEAWAYS. Vitamin C can reduce the redness associated with acne-prone skin and breakouts. Vitamin C can help improve skin texture and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and dark spots.

Is vitamin A a substitute for accutane?

Accutane is a synthetic form of retinol, aka vitamin A. It is not a special byproduct that skips harmful breakdown steps of retinol, it's literally retinol. Consuming 200000 IUs of vitamin A is the equivalent to a starting dose of Accutane.

Why avoid vitamin A on Accutane?

You should avoid certain supplements, especially those containing vitamin A. Accutane is a retinoid. Retinoids are effective acne medications that contain a form of vitamin A. Getting too much vitamin A can lead to toxicity, so it's best to avoid using other products that contain vitamin A while taking Accutane.

The Truth About Vitamin C and Acne: What You Need to Know

What is the strongest acne medication?

Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is a treatment for severe acne that comes in capsules. It has a number of beneficial effects: it helps normalise sebum and reduce how much is produced.

Is vitamin A or vitamin C better for acne?

Both are beneficial – vitamin A regulates sebum production while vitamin C protects skin through its antioxidant effects. They work synergistically so combining both alongside other acne-fighting compounds like zinc creates an optimal supplement regimen for clear skin.

Can too much vitamin C cause acne?

So while taking vitamin C orally could theoretically cause acne, you'd have to be taking a lot of it. And you'd likely see other physical symptoms first. If you do experience acne from taking vitamin C, it's likely a detox reaction. But always check with your doctor if you have concerns.

Which serum is best for pimples?

Rashel Aloe Vera Face Serum and Dr. Rashel White Skin Face Serum is the best serum for acne prone skin. Enriched with gentle yet effective ingredients like aloe vera extract niacinamide, this helps to reduce the inflammation and heal acne.

What are the top 3 supplements for acne?

Expert dermatologist Dr Haus of London's Harley Street recommends taking zinc, selenium, vitamin E and vitamin A, but he advises against taking B complex because it is very oily and can increase the possibility of blocked glands.

How to clear acne fast?

Things you can try if you have acne
  1. Do not wash affected areas of skin more than twice a day. ...
  2. Wash the affected area with a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water. ...
  3. Do not try to "clean out" blackheads or squeeze spots. ...
  4. Avoid make-up, skincare and suncare products that are oil-based (sometimes labelled “comedogenic”).

Which is better for acne, vitamin C or E?

Vitamin C is great for those with: dull or uneven skin tone. dark spots, acne scars and pigmentation.

Which vitamin kills acne?

In particular, zinc and vitamins A and D may help treat and prevent acne. Many foods naturally contain these nutrients, including meats, fish, vegetables, and dairy products. Fortified food products, such as breakfast cereals, milk, and fruit juices, are another excellent source.

Can I take vitamin A every day?

When taken by mouth: Vitamin A is likely safe when taken in amounts less than 10,000 units (3,000 mcg) daily. Vitamin A is available in two forms: pre-formed vitamin A (retinol or retinyl ester) and provitamin A (carotenoids). The maximum daily dose relates to only pre-formed vitamin A.

What does B12 acne look like?

High-dose vitamins B6 and B12 have also been linked to rosacea fulminans, a condition that looks like acne. Rosacea is marked by large red bumps and pustules that typically appear on the nose, chin, and/or cheeks.

Can vitamin C cause weight gain?

Vitamin C

A vitamin that has the ability to slow down your metabolism, vitamin C can help you gain weight. It's a necessary vitamin to help protect your body, but also to help you gain some weight. While you can gain some weight from the slower metabolism, vitamin C can also help keep you from overeating.

Does vitamin C purge acne?

But majorly, retinoids and other exfoliating acids, such as AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, etc., are known to cause purging. Worried if it's normal for your skin to purge? The skin naturally sheds dead skin cells and renews itself, but specific ingredients like retinoids should accelerate it.

Should I stop using vitamin C if I have acne?

Most vitamin C serums are considered safe for all skin types, including both acne-prone and oily skin. You can use them daily on a long-term basis [2]. You might also want to consider adding other acne-fighting products into your routine, like Software's Salicylic Acid Foaming Wash, to reduce oil production [1].

Does vitamin A reduce acne?

Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage due to free radicals. In skin cells, this could help slow cell aging and keep the skin looking younger. The same process may also reduce the speed at which the skin cells fall off, potentially reducing the clogging of pores and acne.

What is the Holy Trinity of SkinCare?

The Holy Trinity of SkinCare: Antioxidant, Retinol, & Sunscreen. Holy Trinity Women's Edition: A daily antioxidant, or Vitamin C, is essential for protection against signs of visible aging (discoloration) caused by environmental aggressors.

What kills acne bacteria fast?

Benzoyl peroxide.

This ingredient kills bacteria that cause acne, helps remove excess oil from the skin and removes dead skin cells, which can clog pores. Benzoyl peroxide products that you can buy without a prescription are available in strengths from 2.5% to 10%.

What age is acne the worst?

Acne is a common issue for many people, especially for teenagers and young adults in their 20s. Some have mild symptoms, while others can have very severe issues. Acne effects around 90% of adolescents with the prime age across all genders being the teenage years of 14-19 years old.

How to tell if acne is hormonal or bacterial?

How to Tell if Acne is Hormonal or Bacterial?
  1. Breakout Zones: Bacterial acne typically invades the forehead, nose, and cheeks, while hormonal acne prefers the chin, jawline, and lower face.
  2. Timing: Hormonal acne often adheres to a cyclic pattern, intensifying before menstruation and subsiding afterward.

Previous article
What antibiotic cream is better than Neosporin?
Next article
What teeth are not suitable for whitening?