For many people, acne is a common occurrence during puberty and teenage years – an inconvenient right-of-passage that is hoped to clear and disappear with patience.  However, for some, it lasts much longer and goes beyond the appearance of the odd pimple. At its worst, it can be a persistent and painful concern that left untreated, can lead to infection and scarring of the skin, to say nothing of the mental and emotional impact acne can have on an individual.

A multibillion-dollar industry promoting creams and skin treatments has emerged with a focus on clearing skin, but even the best topical treatments will have limited success given that acne is the result of internal imbalances and won’t be resolved unless one understands the internal root of the problem.

Simply stated, the appearance of our skin is a reflection of our internal health. When we resolve our internal problems, the appearance of the skin follows suit.

A Naturopathic Doctor’s aim is to identify the underlying causes of acne. These often include hormone imbalances, gut dysbiosis, toxicity buildup, and inflammation.

Hormone Imbalance

Hormones can have a great influence on the skin at any stage of life.  One of the biggest implications of hormone-related acne is excess androgens, like testosterone, which are associated with conditions like PCOS.  It is important for every patient to undergo thorough hormone testing, via bloodwork and urine, to better understand hormonal imbalances that may contribute to acne.

Gut Dysbiosis

Naturopathic skin care often centres around the gut, as it is a major player in the digestion and absorption of nutrients needed to support skin health.  Diet undoubtedly contributes to the development of many cases of acne.  Eating a nutrient-poor diet or foods that aggravate the digestive tract can promote an inflammatory environment conducive to acne.  Supporting proper digestion, ensuring regular bowel movements, and even adding in proper probiotics are all ways a Naturopathic Doctor can improve gut health to support clear skin.

Toxicity

Considering the skin helps with elimination of chemicals and toxins, an increase in the level of toxins passing through the skin can lead to acne. This happens with high exposure to chemicals and toxins or with blocked alternate routes of elimination (ie. constipation or poor lymphatic movement).  All people are exposed to toxins from their environment (air, food, water). Our primary detoxification organ is our liver, and supporting liver health is often vital to clearer skin.

Inflammation

Inflammation is at the root of most health conditions, and skin conditions are no exception. Inflammation is central to the process of how acne forms on the skin, so it is important to decrease one’s source(s) of inflammation. These may include: food sensitivities, stress, hormone imbalances, and toxic load.

As you can see, treating acne is multifactorial and resolving the root causes can take time. However, our clinical experience has shown that blemishes can be quickly reduced while working through these deeper levels.

Overall, with dedication and persistence, patients can expect naturally clearer skin – along with much improved overall health!

For effective topical Naturopathic treatments, refer to the following blog articles:

• The Hidden Dangers Lurking in your Cosmetics
• What you need to know about Sunscreens
• Skin Deep: The Hidden Dangers of Body Care Products
• Facial Rejuvenation Therapies