The Holistic Approach To Treating Acne

There are different types of acne we are unaware of and some we are more familiar with like white heads and blackheads. The types that we are less familiar with include pustules (bigger, deeper whiteheads with more pus), nodules and cystic acne (yikes). So, let’s get into the holistic facts of treating all these types of acne. 

Everything I listed so far can be treated topically with products, however, more severe acne such as cystic acne usually requires internal treatment such as oral antibiotics, birth control or other prescription medications.

Ingredients that are good for acne and that you want to look for in your products include Retinol/ Vitamin A, Sulfur, Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid, Niacinamide, Benzoyl Peroxide, Lactic Acid and Azelaic acid. There are services as well that will help with acne! These include chemical peels, detox facials, blue light therapy, laser treatments, microdermabrasion and extractions.  

Sometimes our diet can improve acne. This would usually be an anti-inflammatory diet such as the Mediterranean diet or the south beach diet which involves eating mostly fish, salmon, greens, fruits, nuts and a little bit of red wine :).

Foods that contain Vitamin A are very beneficial such as carrots, spinach, pumpkin, broccoli, eggs, turkey, ham and tuna. Omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, almonds and flax seeds are also great. Foods with antioxidants that are great for acne include berries, green tea, oranges, lemons, avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes and tomatoes. Foods you should avoid that spike your high glycemic (blood sugar) include white bread, all sodas, pastries, rice and pasta. They cause your pancreas to make extra insulin in order to regulate your blood sugar which also causes your oil glands to create more oil!  This can cause more bacteria and dirt that clogs your hair follicles and leads to more acne.

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