Affinity Health Puts Vitamin D And Acne On The Spot

Affinity Health says that while the exact impact vitamin D has on acne still needs more research, it has been noted that people living with acne are likelier to be vitamin D deficient.

How Effective is Vitamin D against Acne?

Did you know that emerging evidence suggests that vitamin D – also known as the sunshine vitamin – may offer a ray of hope for those suffering from acne vulgaris?

Vitamin D deficiency affects about two in three South Africans. This is a figure which isn’t helped by the fact that we’ve spent a lot of time cooped up in our houses due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Acne develops when follicles, or sebaceous glands in the skin, become clogged. These blockages can become inflamed and infected, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, painful pimples or cysts filled with pus.

While anyone can get acne, it is more common in adolescents, men, people taking androgen hormones, or those using products that clog follicles in the skin. It can, in some cases, also be genetic.

Keeping your D levels up might help you zap breakouts if the acne is caused by bacteria. That’s because this vitamin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that could reduce redness and swelling. Vitamin D also contributes to skin cell growth and repair.

Are you looking for effective ways to increase your vitamin D levels? The good news is, in most cases, you can get a healthy dose of this fat-soluble vitamin for free! The sun is one of the best sources of vitamin D for the human body. Short bursts of sun exposure can usually allow your body to produce all the vitamin D it needs for the day.

There are also other sources of vitamin D, including:

• Foods naturally rich in vitamin D, such as tuna, salmon, beef liver, egg yolks, mushrooms
• Foods supplemented with vitamin D, such as milk, yogurt, cereals, orange juice
• Supplements, such as fish oil supplements, vitamin D supplements

“There are various vitamin D oral supplements available, including gummies, tablets, and capsules, but remember to always check with a doctor before taking vitamin D supplements. A doctor can measure vitamin D levels to detect possible deficiencies,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.

“Another option is topical vitamin D, which is generally safe to use daily so long as you follow the application instructions from your doctor.”

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health aims to provide premier quality, affordable medical insurance to South Africans. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service when they are faced with injury or illness. We work to deliver innovative solutions that are simple, cost-effective, and proven, so our cover is structured to ensure that you get exactly what you need. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn