At one time or another, almost everyone has suffered from acne. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous gland (glands in the skin that secrete an oily substance) of the face, the neck and back. When the sebaceous glands become clogged with the oily substance they create, the accumulation results in pimples. There are several forms of acne, but the most common is acne vulgaris, found primarily in adolescents.
The exact cause of acne is not known, but factors that contribute to this condition include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional factors include allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants, cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle.
In addition, the skin functions to eliminate a portion of the body's toxic waste by sweating. If the body contains more toxins than the kidneys or liver can effectively discharge, the skin takes over. In fact, the skin is called the 3rd kidney by some doctors. As toxins escape through the skin, they create issues that disrupt the health and integrity of the skin.
Recommendations for Wellness
Note: Some of these recommendations may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements are experienced.
Apply distilled white vinegar to the face and affected areas. Let this sit on your face for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Lemon or any citric fruit can be used as a natural exfoliate to remove dead skin cells that may clog pores. You can replace the white vinegar with the juice of a lemon (or desired citric juice). Let it dry for about 10 minutes, and then wash off with cold water. You may feel a mild sting or burn when the lemon juice is applied. If so, diluting the juice is suitable.
Increase water consumption. Water helps transport nutrients in the body and helps flush out toxins.
Eat a properly balanced diet to ensure proper nutrition. To make up for nutrients missing in today's foods take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement.
To help boost the immune system and fight against acne-causing bacteria use echinacea or Oregon grape.
To help keep your liver clear of toxic overload use dandelion, burdock or red clover.
Another way to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce acne is by herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshine’s Ayurvedic Skin Detox, and BP-X.
Large sums of vitamin A have been effectively used to treat severe acne. Large quantities, however, can be hazardous and should only be used when working with your health care giver.
Consider adding additional zinc to your diet. Zinc aids in the healing of tissues and assists in preventing scarring. Zinc is also important to the body in resisting infection and inflammation.
Try a homeopathic acne remedy to help clear and heal the skin. It can help to dry up pimples & prevent future outbreaks.
