I have found no conclusive research linking vitamin D with acne, but then again, I have found no research signaling that there is not a link. This is true for, well, most vitamins and minerals. We can only make educated guesses at this point.
From a common sense perspective, it is logical to ensure adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin D is one of the big ones. And since our bodies make vitamin D in the skin (by converting cholesterol), it’s interesting to look into how vitamin D might affect the skin itself, and in our case, acne. Recently, scientists have located vitamin D receptors in the skin, and they are hypothesizing that vitamin D may facilitate normal skin functioning, including playing a potential role in cell maturation as well as perhaps aiding in the fight against skin bacteria. No one knows for sure if, and to what degree, vitamin D might affect acne.
I figure it’s better to be safe than sorry. So how do we get the vitamin D that we need? Exposing the body to the sun for 15 minutes or so at least twice a week during the summer months makes for adequate supplies of vitamin D in lighter skinned people. The darker your skin, the more time that is required. However, in the winter, getting enough sun exposure can be tough. Food manufacturers often fortify dairy products and some juices, cereals, and breads with Vitamin D, so that can help. However, from what we’re learning about a potential dairy and acne connection, many of us are limiting our dairy exposure. Cod liver oil, salmon, and mackerel also provide some vitamin D. Since I personally don’t eat much dairy, bread, or cereal, and since I rarely intake salmon or mackerel, and do not supplement with cod liver oil, I choose to take a vitamin D pill once a day just to be on the safe side.
I hope the scientific community will look into the Vitamin D and acne connection more in the coming years. If I find anything more out about this topic, I’ll be sure to pass it along.