Let’s explore acne, causes, symptoms, and treatments. With emphasis on the connections between skin health, diet, and overall wellness.

​Understanding Acne

• Definition: A skin condition where hair follicles under the skin become clogged, often linked to hormonal imbalances, dietary factors, and lifestyle.
• Types of Acne:
  • Acne vulgaris (common in teenagers).
  • Hormonal and adult-onset acne.

Causes and Aggravating Factors

• Hormonal Changes: Surges in androgens during teenage years or menopause.
• Dietary Triggers: High glycemic foods, alcohol, spicy foods, and processed sugars.
• Environmental Factors: Use of comedogenic skin products, exposure to extreme weather, and stress.
• Microbiome Imbalance: Affects the skin’s natural defenses, promoting acne-causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes.

Symptoms

• Clogged pores, inflammation, and redness.
• Occurs on the face, back, chest, and shoulders.

Testing and Diagnosis

• Hormonal Testing: Blood tests for androgen levels and a full hormone panel.
• Nutritional and Mineral Analysis: Zinc, copper, selenium, and heavy metal levels.
• Gut Microbiome Testing: Stool tests to assess gut health and microbiota balance.

Dietary Recommendations

• Foods to Include:
  • Bitter vegetables (rocket, radishes, mustard greens).
  • Fatty fish rich in Omega-3s.
  • Organ meats (vitamin A and zinc sources).
  • Fermented foods (sauerkraut and others for gut health).
• Foods to Avoid:
  • Refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and sugary items.

Nutritional and Supplemental Strategies

• Targeted Supplements:
  • Vitamin B2: Essential for skin health and energy production.
  • Zinc and Copper: Maintain balance to support skin and immune health.
  • Vitamin A: Crucial for collagen production and skin repair.
  • Selenium: Supports antioxidant defenses and hormone regulation.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and support overall skin health.
• Supplementation Guidelines: Personalised based on testing results.

Stress and Detoxification

• Stress Management: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol can exacerbate acne.
• Detoxification:
  • Promote liver health with bitter foods and hydration.
  • Ensure regular and healthy bowel movements for toxin elimination.