Acne controversy
PORTFOLIO:
Clearing up the acne controversy
The tendency to develop acne runs in families but the root cause is not fully known. What is known is that it develops as a result of blocked skin follicles caused by an overproduction of sebum (skin oil). Nearly 85% of people between 12 and 24 years of age develop acne.
3 controversial myths about the cause of acne:
Chocolate and greasy foods
Bad hygiene
Stress
These factors have consistently been named as offenders and while dermatologists argue that this is not the case, dietitians make a good point about their connection to this condition.
Hormones: the natural influence
Dermatologists and dietitians agree that acne is linked to hormonal fluctuations. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the body that circulate in the bloodstream and control numerous bodily functions, including the production of sebum.
Androgens are the hormones responsible for acne. When there is an excess of androgens in the blood, the sebaceous glands produce extra amounts of oil or sebum that lead to blockages in skin follicles. This low-oxygen environment promotes bacterial growth that causes the inflammatory response we know as acne.
While hormonal fluctuations are quite normal, acne is commonly experienced during puberty and menopause when hormone levels are irregular.
Stress, diet & hygiene: our influence
Stress increases the production of hormones from the adrenal glands. Meat products, cheese and dairy can contain vast amounts of hormone-mimicking compounds. This interferes with the natural hormone balance of our bodies.
In addition, excess sugar, fried food and stimulants such as caffeine increase the level of toxins in the blood. This creates extra work for the liver where toxins and hormones are neutralized and processed for elimination.
The body is constantly excreting waste products through the lungs, intestines, kidneys and skin. Over time, inadequate dietary choices can compromise liver function, causing hormones and toxins to be stored in the body, and putting additional stress on other elimination pathways. Acne is one repercussion of this.
Acne prevention: naturally
An acne outbreak can be prevented or minimized by washing with a gentle cleanser. This removes excess oil and dead skin cells, and assists in releasing toxins that accumulate as a result of a poor diet. It is important to know that too much washing will irritate the skin.
Dermatologists agree that to prevent or cure acne, hormones need to be balanced. In addition to stress management, dietitians recommend feeding the body with healthy food and key nutrients to aid hormone regulation and strengthen the liver.
So, although diet, hygiene and stress are not directly related to acne, they do play a role in its prevention and cure. Regulating this natural response to outside agents can control acne and leave the way clear for healthy, beautiful skin.
