Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A (vitamin A acetate)
For the health condition: Acne

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin A (often as vitamin A acetate or retinol) has a scientific basis for its use in supporting or treating acne, though not as robust as its more potent derivatives. Synthetic retinoids such as tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) and isotretinoin (13-cis retinoic acid) are well-established, effective treatments for acne, working by normalizing keratinization, reducing sebaceous gland activity, and exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects. These medications are chemically related to vitamin A and were developed based on the biological activity of vitamin A compounds in the skin. Oral isotretinoin is particularly reserved for severe, recalcitrant acne. However, vitamin A itself (as dietary supplements or topical vitamin A acetate/retinol) is less potent and less predictable in its effects. Some early studies and anecdotal reports suggested that high doses of oral vitamin A could reduce acne lesions, but such doses are close to the threshold for toxicity and are not routinely recommended due to the risk of serious side effects. The use of vitamin A in standard dietary amounts is unlikely to have a clinically significant impact on acne, and its topical form is much less effective than prescription retinoids. In summary, while the scientific rationale for vitamin A’s role in acne comes from its relationship to retinoids, the direct use of vitamin A acetate for acne is supported by moderate evidence and is not considered a first-line treatment due to safety and efficacy concerns. Most guidelines recommend retinoid derivatives rather than vitamin A itself for acne management.

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