Acne. It’s something you’re supposed to outgrow, like awkward teenage crushes, boy bands, and report cards.
But here you are, an adult, still breaking out like a pizza-loving 15-year-old heading to a school dance.
Except now, the stakes are higher.
You’d do anything to look your best for that job promotion, meeting your partner’s parents, or a fun night out with friends. Even just going anywhere with a clear, smooth complexion would be amazing.
You’ve tried everything on your own to get rid of your acne, but nothing has worked.
Who Do You Turn to for Help?
Dermatologists.
A good dermatologist can be a literal lifesaver, especially with their crucial work in screening for cancerous moles and other skin growths. However, when it comes to acne, there are some drawbacks to consider.
First, dermatologists have limited time to spend with you—typically ten or fifteen minutes at most. This short amount of time makes it difficult for them to fully understand the complexity of your life and what might be triggering your acne, including factors like your diet.
Second, because they don’t have time to address the whole you, they often prescribe medications. It’s what they know best. This often results in a “one size fits all” approach, with regimens of oral antibiotics, topical prescription creams like Retin-A (which contains pore-clogging inactive ingredients), Benzoyl Peroxide, and topical antibiotics.
When this approach fails after a few months (as it often does—otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this), dermatologists typically prescribe another round of antibiotics. And then another. This cycle continues until they’ve exhausted their chemical options, except for one last resort: Accutane.
Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, poses significant risks, including severe side effects such as dry skin, dry eyes, constipation, diarrhea, liver damage, and depression. Even after several rounds of Accutane, it often fails to cure the acne.
What About Alternative Healthcare Professionals?
If you’re leaning towards a more natural approach, you might be considering alternative health professionals like naturopaths, endocrinologists, acupuncturists, or nutritionists.
Certainly, they often possess a wealth of valuable knowledge and can assist you in achieving optimal health in various ways. When it comes to treating acne, they might be able to guide you towards positive results.
Naturopaths
At the core of naturopathic medicine lies the belief in the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Naturopathic doctors, educated and trained in accredited naturopathic medical colleges, diagnose, prevent, and treat acute and chronic illnesses in a personalized, holistic manner, aiming to restore and maintain optimal health. They prioritize addressing the underlying causes of health issues rather than merely alleviating symptoms.
When it comes to treating adult or teen acne, naturopaths typically focus on dietary adjustments and hormone balance.
Regarding diet, they may advocate for a high-protein, low-carb diet comprising fresh-water fish, whole grains, fruits, and sprouts. They might discourage the consumption of sugar, nut butters, and fried foods, although it’s worth noting that the belief that these foods directly cause acne is a myth. Additionally, they may recommend hormone-specific treatments, incorporating herbs for hormone balancing and overall body health. Naturopaths might also suggest hydrotherapy, involving alternating hot and cold compresses on the affected area.
Endocrinologists
Endocrinologists are medical specialists who diagnose and treat disorders related to the endocrine system. This system comprises glands that release hormones to regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, and sensory perception.
While routine hormonal testing and interpretation are typically not necessary for acne, exceptions are made for individuals with severe cystic acne or acne accompanied by signs of androgen excess. For instance, young children with acne along with early-onset body odor and pubic hair may warrant further investigation. Additionally, some women have a genetic predisposition to high androgen levels and low estrogen and progesterone levels, a condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and the formation of cysts in the ovaries instead of the release of eggs. Research suggests that a significant number of women are unaware they have this syndrome.
After hormonal blood tests, treatment typically involves oral medications such as Spironolactone or birth control pills.
Acupuncturists
Acupuncturists practice a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves using fine needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at precise acupuncture points. This practice aims to relieve pain, promote healing, and enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Central to acupuncture is the belief that many ailments stem from blockages and imbalances within the body, and by clearing these obstructions, harmony can be restored.
Utilizing Chinese face mapping, an acupuncturist seeks to identify the underlying causes of acne, which may include dietary factors, emotional stress, or hormonal imbalances. Based on their assessment, they may recommend dietary adjustments and prescribe Chinese herbs and supplements in addition to administering acupuncture treatments.
Nutritionists
In the realm of acne treatment, a qualified nutritionist can offer guidance towards a healthy, whole-foods diet abundant in fruits and vegetables. They may also recommend supplements and emphasize the importance of staying hydrated. Additionally, they can provide insights into the impact of stress and hormonal imbalance on acne, as these factors significantly influence skin health.
However, it’s essential to note that nutritionists may inadvertently suggest foods that, although generally considered nutritious, can exacerbate acne. Examples include free-range organic whole eggs, seafood, sea plants, yogurt, kefir, and peanuts. Despite adhering diligently to their recommendations, consuming these foods could hinder progress in achieving clear skin.
When it Comes to Acne, Though, Here’s What’s Missing…
It’s important to recognize that while these professionals offer valuable insights, they are not acne specialists. They may not have delved into the complex and interconnected factors that contribute to acne, such as stress, diet, gut health, hormone balance, pore-clogging ingredients, supplements, herbal remedies, and the use of acne care products.
For instance, even if your naturopath suggests a high-protein, low-carb diet along with herbs for hormonal balance, such as DIM (diindolylmethane), which can actually trigger acne, and hydrotherapy, you may still find yourself struggling to achieve clear skin. This is because these experts, like many others, may not consider the multitude of other acne triggers that affect your skin on a daily basis. This oversight may explain why you often experience only temporary or minimal improvement.
Ready to Clear Your Acne Once and For All? We Can Help.
Based on our extensive experience treating thousands of clients, we’ve found that acne is often triggered by a combination of factors rather than a single issue. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach typically falls short in achieving long-term clearance and control of acne.
Begin your journey to clear skin by booking an Online Acne Consultation today.