Selenium is a trace mineral that is a component of glutathione peroxidise, which is an antioxidant and detoxifying enzyme. This enzyme plays a vital role in preventing acne inflammation. Those who experience acne are usually low on glutathione peroxidase. Selenium also assists in the development of selenoproteins, which help to prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Therefore, teenage and adult acne can be treated with selenium. It is often used for acne sufferers with oily skin, blackheads, and pustules.
Combination of selenium with Vitamin E is also said to produce very good results in acne sufferers. Selenium increased in diet via food or supplement works to alleviate acne by boosting the antioxidant properties of Vitamin E.
Selenium can obtained in adequate amounts by consuming shellfish, chicken, wheat bran, whole grains and nuts, milk, onions, tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, and orange juice. Most good multi-vitamins contain selenium in right amount needed for each day; however supplements made from organic forms of selenium are more easily absorbed by the body.
Selenium also helps to keep the elasticity in tissues, making the skin more youthful. Some researchers also believe that you should add vitamin A to the combination of selenium and vitamin E for the most beneficial results. It also helps to reduce acne scarring and severity of future acne breakouts.
The suggested dosage of selenium supplements is 200 – 400 mcg per day. A research showed that blood levels of glutathione peroxidase levels were lower in patients with acne, but supplementation with 200 mcg per day of selenium for six to eight weeks showed encouraging clinical results. Also, men with acne are more frequently helped by selenium supplements, 200 to 300 mcg daily as compared to women.
It is important to keep in mind that you should never exceed 400 mcg of selenium in one day because it could be toxic to your system. Excess selenium can cause hair loss, fingernail loss, nausea, depression, and anxiety. So, it is always best to consult the doctor about finding the right dosage of selenium, vitamin E, and vitamin A for acne management. But there are no known medicine interactions when taken at the recommended dose.
