Overview

Vitamin D has a number of functions in addition to its well-known role as a modulator of calcium metabolism and homeostasis. Some studies have shown that vitamin D can help treat skin conditions such as dry skin, psoriasis or eczema. You may notice several signs of vitamin D deficiency on your skin such as dry skin, rashes, acne or signs of aging. 

Researchers say topical products can help with acne if they increase vitamin D levels and reduce inflammation. Another 2018 study with similar results also showed that acne can limit the production of vitamin D. However, scientists need more research to confirm these results. The study also found that people with acne had significantly lower vitamin D levels than people without acne.

Can vitamin D treat acne?

Some studies have shown that Maintaining the  vitamin D level can help with acne inflammation. Vitamin D is also one of the most active compounds for activating the "healing genes", so it is important to maintain a high level to heal the spots completely without further infection. Because vitamin D stimulates the T cells to fight infections, it is incredibly helpful in killing the ever-serious P. acnes bacteria. Vitamin D inhibits the activity of the sebaceous glands and helps regulate sebum production. 

Does vitamin D actually help acne?

Vitamin D boosts the immune system and has antimicrobial properties. Similar to vitamin A, vitamin D blocks the negative effects acne bacteria has on the skin. Vitamin D helps more than just bones and is used to treat many skin conditions.

Like vitamin A, vitamin D can prevent the negative effects of acne bacteria on the skin and help fight acne-causing bacteria. Acne can also cause inflammation, which can be controlled with vitamin D. There are several factors that can cause acne, and many factors can make the situation worse. Adequate vitamin D levels in the body can help control the symptoms of inflammatory acne.

What are the sources of vitamin D?

Sunlight. is the best source of vitamin D. Your body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. To receive vitamin D from sunlight you can sit under the sun for 10-15 minutes. Do not expose yourself to the heat for longer.

Food and supplements. The best way to increase your vitamin D levels, besides sunlight, is to eat foods naturally rich in vitamin D or take supplements.

Eat liver a few times per week or take cod liver oil daily. Other foods that contain vitamin D include:

• Salmon
• Tuna
• Mackerel
• Oysters
• High quality eggs
• Mushrooms

Vitamin D deficiency and dry skin: what is the relation?

According to Dr. Nandini Barua, "One of the most prominent signs of Vitamin D deficiency is witnessing severe dryness of the skin. Medically, it is called Ichthyosis. This disorder is caused by an alteration in genes that are supposed to function as skin barriers. That's why Vitamin D is very important because it triggers the receptors which are responsible for promoting the formation of the skin barrier, which is vital for defending the skin."

Takeaway

Vitamin D is thought to reduce inflammation on your skin and therefore could help with acne. Due to its action on your blood insulin response, your acne breakouts could be vastly improved too. This lowering of inflammation is going to help with general skin health too.