Understanding Different Types of Acne 

To effectively address acne, it’s important to identify the specific type you’re dealing with, as acne manifests in various forms. 

Identification involves examining its location, appearance, itchiness, and timing. Swabs can also be used to pinpoint certain types. 

For instance, fungal acne results from an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, often seen around the hairline, forehead, temples, chest, and back. 

Cystic acne presents as deep, pus-filled cysts beneath the skin, often causing pain and scarring. 

Hormonal acne, triggered by hormonal imbalances like excess oestrogen or testosterone, typically appears around the jawline, chin, and mouth. 

Step 1: Nurturing Liver and Gut Health 

The liver and gut significantly influence acne. If the liver has sluggish detoxification, toxins will be expelled through the skin, the body’s largest organ, in the form of acne. 

Supporting the gut involves maintaining adequate fibre, water, and prebiotics intake, along with regular and gentle exercise. Hydration and consumption of nettle tea can aid kidney function. Detoxification should proceed gradually under professional guidance, starting with gentle measures like dandelion tea or supplements such as glycine and taurine. This gradual process reduces the chance of a purge of acne or a sudden worsening of symptoms. Imbalances in gut bacteria, as well as parasites, may also contribute to acne, warranting assessment through comprehensive gut microbiome tests, that can be prescribed through a naturopath.  

Step 2: Getting Blood Work Analysed by a Naturopath 

Nutrient deficiencies often get overlooked as a cause of acne. That’s why it’s important to get a thorough blood test. Your body prioritises getting nutrients to your vital organs first, so if there’s not enough to go around, your skin loses out. A blood test can also check for thyroid issues, inflammation, or major nutrient shortages. For example, many women who menstruate have low iron levels, which are important for both thyroid health and healthy skin. 

Step 3: Keeping Skincare Simple 

With so many skincare products out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But when it comes to acne, less is often more. 

Your skin’s pH balance is important—it likes to stay between 4.7 and 5.75. But a lot of modern skincare products can interrupt this balance. Using diluted white vinegar in water as a toner on your skin can help bring it back to a healthy pH and restore its acid mantle. 

Step 4: Awareness of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals 

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are always something to consider when treating acne as they can exacerbate the condition by interfering with hormonal balance. EDC’s are natural or human made chemicals that may mimic, block or interfere with the body’s hormones, which are part of the endocrine system. 

Minimising exposure to EDCs involves avoiding plastic containers, reducing the use of perfumes and harsh cleaners, and opting for gentler cleaning alternatives like vinegar and baking soda.