Acne

Acne is a skin condition in which the hair follicles in the skin become clogged with oil and skin cells and may also be accompanied by bacteria & inflammation.

Signs of acne may include:

• Lesions: Comedones (open comedones = blackheads; closed comedones = whiteheads), Pimples that include pus (pustules), Large tender bumps under the skin (nodules), Cystic pockets under the skin’s surface

• Tenderness localized to an area

• Location: face, back, chest, sometimes upper arms as well

There are many reasons acne might occur (often, a combination of the below):

• Hormonal changes: Puberty, Premenstrual syndrome (cyclical acne), Elevated androgens (testosterone, etc.), Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Pre/post pregnancy

• Bacterial Infection. Acne occurs as a result of inflammation at the cellular level. Redness, warmth, swelling at the area – all are signs of inflammation. In serious cases of Acne vulgaris antibiotics may be required to prevent spreading or worsening of infection.

• Dietary triggers. Because acne occurs as a result of inflammation, the immune system is involved. We know that approximately 75% of our immune system is located in our gut (MALT and GALT). Therefore, the foods that we eat can impact inflammatory changes. Food triggers can vary from individual to individual.

• Mental-Emotional Health. Stress, Anxiety & Depression can often cause acne as well. Psychological stress manifesting as physiological stress through inflammatory pathways.

Strategies for Acne Management:

• Lifestyle. Any intervention that may reduce oxidative stress & damage and therefore reduce inflammation, can be beneficial.

  This can include:

  • Optimizing Stress Management (more below)

  • Optimizing Sleep Patterns

  • Exercise

  • Balancing of hormones. comprehensive hormone assessments may provide information regarding hormones

• Supplements. Individualized assessments help to determine which supplements can be beneficial.

• Anti-bacterial medications through your dermatologist to help eradicate infection, if required.

Acne therapies can be different for each person, but the fundamental goal is to determine WHY acne is an issue for that individual. Once we know the WHY, management becomes easier and more directly focused. Naturopathic medical approaches might be beneficial in managing acne long-term.

Dr. Nadia Mawji, ND

Calgary Naturopathic Doctor

**Any information provided in these posts are intended for information purposes only and not to be considered naturopathic medical advice. See your naturopathic doctor for individualized support & guidance