Treating Hormonal Acne with Naturopathic Medicine
Hormonal acne is a condition I see frequently in my NW Calgary Naturopathic Medicine practice. It often causes significant distress in patients, and can impact one’s self esteem and overall well being and quality of life.
It is usually characterized by pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, greasy skin, and possible scarring. It is typically seen on the face, upper back and chest, but can also be seen on the buttocks. Although most likely experienced in adolescence, patients can continue to suffer from this condition into their 20’s and 30’s, and sometimes even into their 40’s.
From a Naturopathic perspective, we not only want to treat the skin topically but also address the skin from inside out. This means we want to address all potential causes of acne, such as hormones, digestion, immune system, stress, and much more.
Hormones are affected by many systems, such as the digestive system and the stress response, so ensuring optimal digestion, gut health, and stress responses can play a signficant role in balancing ones hormones, and thus clearing up hormonal acne.
Although noticing a difference on the skin can take a bit longer than topical treatment, the results are longer lasting because the root cause has been addressed. Read below to learn about the treatments Naturopathic Medicine has to offer in treating acne.
Hormone Testing
Testing levels of hormones will give us a clear picture of a patients Estradiol, Progesterone, Testosterone, Cortisol and DHEAS. We can do this either via saliva hormone testing, or blood work. Then based on the results we can support the hormones via herbs, supplements, injections, Liver support, and more.
Diet and Nutrition for Hormonal Acne
Although many sources say that diet is not linked to their skin, most people find that it is. This correlation can be linked to several causes. One link is the impact of insulin levels on one’s skin. A diet high in sugar and refined grains will cause an increase in insulin levels. Another link is fiber intake, because a high fiber diet can ensure proper elimination of the bowels. We also want to ensure healthy levels of stomach acid to ensure proper digestion of food, and a healthy gut flora.
Stress Management for Hormonal Acne
Many patients find that their acne increases during or after periods of stress. Herbs, supplements, injections, and lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing ones stress levels, thus reducing acne outbreaks. You can read more about stress management in my blog here.
Food Sensitivity Testing
The foods a person eats can contribute to acne if the patient has a sensitivity to that food. Elimination of foods that test positive can improve one’s skin and also has many other impacts such as improved digestion, energy, mood, sleep, and immune system. This is probably the most important treatment in clearing acne from what I have seen in my practice. Click here to read more about food sensitivity testing.
Botanical Medicine and Herbs for Hormonal Acne
Herbs are a very powerful method of treating this condition. We can use herbs that will support liver and kidney detoxification, and also support healthy skin. Like supplements, I always ensure these herbs are safe for my patients based on their health history.
Vitamins and Supplements
There are several supplements that I use in my patients suffering from this condition. These supplements can improve the health of the skin overall, while also addressing the root cause. I always ensure that the supplements I am prescribing are safe for my patients based on their health conditions and other medications they are currently taking.
As you can see there are so many options for treating hormonal acne. Please don’t hesitate to give me a call to see what Naturopathic Medicine can do for you!
Naturopathic Vitality Acupuncture and Wellness Clinic
205-5403 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary, AB
T3B 4Z1
(403) 719-2594
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