This article is about how to treat acne using holistic health. It explains the causes and symptoms of acne. It also includes some of the ways acne can be treated including supplements, healthy eating practices, and lifestyle changes. Acne is a common but often distressing condition. There are plenty of traditional medical treatments available for it, but many health-conscious individuals prefer to pursue more natural solutions. For these individuals, holistic medicine, based on the idea that optimal wellness requires a healthful balance of mind, body, spirit, and emotions, provides excellent acne solutions. Before getting into the treatments recommended by practitioners of holistic medicine, it is important to understand acne, its symptoms, and its causes.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin problem most common during adolescence, although many adults struggle with it, too. It can occur in various locations, but it is most common on the face and back. It looks similar to a rash, but it’s clogged and/or infected pores (also known as hair follicles).

What are the symptoms?

There are different types of acne. Blackheads appear as black dots, and whiteheads look like white dots. Pimples are often red, raised bumps, and they sometimes contain pus. People who have acne may have oily skin. Picking at acne or popping pimples can lead to scarring. Also, it is important to note that low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety can occur as a result of negative feelings about personal appearance.

How is it caused?

Sometimes, sebaceous glands, which are attached to pores, produce too much oil (also known as sebum). When a pore becomes clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, acne results. Some people have more trouble with acne than others, and this is sometimes due to genetic differences. Hormones can also contribute to acne problems, which is why breakouts are associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and puberty when hormones change dramatically.

Natural Health Protocol

Diet Recommendations. There is evidence that eating fewer simple carbohydrates can help with acne problems. This can be accomplished by avoiding foods containing sugar and refined grains. Also, eating lots of highly nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can provide vitamins and minerals that decrease the likelihood of acne outbreaks.

Supplement Recommendations:

• Zinc: Some studies have shown zinc kills bacteria and reduces the body’s inflammatory response, which means zinc has the potential to help people with acne. Adults can safely take 15 – 30-milligram of zinc supplement once per day. Zinc is safe for adolescents as well. People younger than age 18 should take a lower dose. Please note to never use excessive amouts.

• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is a substance that helps the immune system and the skin. It is available in the form of a gel, cream, or liquid that can be applied to the skin once per day. However, Vitamin A overdose is dangerous, so it is essential never to expose the body to excessive amounts.

• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil can help treat many skin problems, including acne. It is toxic when ingested, but it can be diluted and applied to the skin using a cotton ball once a day.

Lifestyle. It is essential to wash skin daily and to keep areas affected by acne as clean as possible. However, if skin becomes dry, the frequency of cleansing should be decreased to avoid compensatory oil production by the skin. Also, it is possible that smoking contributes to acne problems, so avoiding cigarettes (including second-hand smoke) is a good idea.

Other Practices

There may be a connection between stress and acne. To reduce stress, try meditating, exercising regularly, and minimizing unpleasant commitments. Also, be aware of the things that skin comes into contact with. Wash sheets at least weekly and avoid wearing hats, if possible, because doing so can contribute to clogged pores. Finally, stay away from unhealthy foods and choose foods that will help nourish and detox your body to help eliminate waste and toxins from the body efficiently. Lowering the risk of this unwanted toxins from getting reabsorb in the body that can lead to acne breakouts.