Acne is formed by an over production of oil which is called sebum. If sebum and other factors such as dead skin cells and tiny hairs block pores an infection can occur in the pore causing redness, pustules, swelling, soreness and, in some cases, scarring.

Manage Stress - Although stress is not the primary cause of acne, it can aggravate and trigger episodes. Stress management may help improve your acne. Stress management approaches at Saskatoon Naturopathic Medicine include acupuncture, nutrient and botanical supplementation, massage therapy, counseling, and behavior changes.

Identify Food Triggers - Dietary habits and food reactions that increase sebum production and inflammation can contribute to acne. Food reactions such as food sensitivities are usually caused an immune response involving IgG antibodies. These can easily be identified using a blood test. Elimination diets can also help identify the food triggers. Removing triggering foods from your diet can help you have clearer, acne-free skin.

Address Hormonal Imbalances - Acne can be caused by hormonal imbalances. Your ND can address hormonal imbalances by creating an individualized plan that may include recommending specific herbs, supplements and dietary changes that are right for you.

Identify Nutrient Deficiencies - Supplementation with different vitamins, minerals and herbs can support your body to create and maintain acne-free skin. Your ND can help address nutrient deficiencies by recommending professional grade supplements that are specific for your needs. Further testing can be done to take a deeper look into your nutrient levels. Consider SpectraCell Micronutrient Testing.

Optimize Diet - Diet plays an important role in improving acne and complexion. A balanced diet can be customized for you to ensure good nutrient intake while avoiding food triggers and inflammatory foods. Improving nutrient intake, balancing blood sugar, eliminating food sensitivities and reducing inflammation are all factors that a proper diet should support. At Saskatoon Naturopathic Medicine we can create a nutrition plan that is right for your body and lifestyle habits.

Reduce Inflammation - Inflammation contributes to the severity of acne lesions. Treating the cause of the inflammation is often important to reduce acne. Naturopathic doctors work with patients to identify triggers of inflammation and to address the individual triggers accordingly through combined use of diet and lifestyle, counselling, botanical and nutrient supplementation.

Tanghetti E. A. (2013). The role of inflammation in the pathology of acne. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 6(9), 27–35.

Disclaimer: This content is subject to change. The information is intended to inform and educate; it does not replace the medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. © 2022 Saskatoon Naturopathic Medicine Inc. All rights reserved.