In recent years, researchers have been able to make a strong correlation between vitamin D and acne. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hormone that is critical for hormone regulation and immune support. Studies have shown that patients with cystic acne had vitamin D deficiency, and their symptoms improved drastically with vitamin D supplementation.

Acne is an overgrowth of bacteria in the skin. Vitamin D has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help with the outbreaks as well as the inflammatory side effects of acne, such as pigmentation issues, redness, and swelling.

Taking dietary supplements and eating foods that are rich in vitamin D are the best ways to get vitamin D. While direct sunlight is also an alternative way to get vitamin D, direct sun exposure can cause a number of adverse skin conditions.

If you have acne, it is important to establish whether you have vitamin D deficiency or not. Talk to your primary care doctor to check your levels and see what is recommended. Vitamin D levels need to be monitored carefully because too much vitamin D can also cause health.

Approximately 4 out of 10 Americans suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Getting some baseline blood work, including vitamin D level, is a good way to start building a total care plan, especially when addressing acne, which is a multifaceted issue that has several treatment options.

Dr. Zoe Gazola is the owner and medical director at The Indigo Clinic in Miami, which draws patients from all over the globe.