What is Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory disease of the skin, which results as a blockage of pores/follicles
Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, zits or blemishes.
The condition is more common during adolescence, but frequently continues into adulthood. In fact, an increasing number of studies are beginning to indicate that adult acne is growing in prevalence. Health experts believe this rise is due to increased levels of stress, hormonal changes and inflammation, and poor diet.
What are the major contributors to acne?
Stress: Because periods of heightened stress (i.e. work deadlines, personal issues), cause hormonal imbalances, data has shown that it can be directly linked to breakouts.
Excessive sebum production: The sebaceous gland – the gland found in follicles and pores that produces sebum (an oil that waterproofs hair and skin) – can overwork when there is an increased turnover of cells. This can clog the pores and cause acne.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can cause fluxes in sebum production leading to acne breakouts. Typical hormonal changes include: puberty, post-pregnancy and menopause, in addition to some medications and food additives.
Oxidative Stress: This is a technical term for an imbalance in a cell’s ability to deal with “reactive oxygen”, which are harmful molecules created within the cell that need to be detoxified or they can cause skin damage.
Low nutrient levels: Though salty, sweet, foods are tasty, they are not necessarily good for your skin. Processed foods high in trans fats can cause serious acne issues, while foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids, deeply coloured fruits, and vegetables all have proven positive effects on acne.
Inflammation: Since inflammation is an early sign of acne (not a consequence), stopping this process can help prevent breakouts, as well as provide relief of existing acne symptoms.
What can I do?
Since the listed contributors to acne (also called “root causes”) are all internal, treatment with a lotion or cleanser provides only temporary relief. For a full solution, there are all-natural, scientifically proven acne solutions that work from the inside out, giving you the radiant, healthy skin that you’ve always deserved.