| Dear Andrew
Acne can be the result of a buildup of sebum which can clog the hair follicles on the skin encouraging bacteria which in turn can cause eruptions and inflammation. The sebaceous glands naturally produce sebum to lubricate and waterproof the epidermis but sometimes due to hormonal changes they can produce too much. Stress is another factor that may be worth addressing as this is known to affect hormonal balance. Are you getting enough relaxation? If not learn to meditate so you can stop the world and recover your equilibrium now and again. Conventional approaches often include topical and oral antibiotics to help reduce bacteria levels and retinoids which help reduce sebum production. While this can be helpful in the short term there are side effects and the cause remains unaddressed. There is evidence to suggest a whole food diet with low levels of refined and processed carbohydrates/sugars, saturated fats and meat can reduce the problem. Cut out margarine, cooking oils and eat more fish. Zinc, B6 and omega 3 supplements have been found to be very helpful. Agnus Castus and Red Clover herbal tinctures taken daily in water may help reduce sebum levels by regulating the hormones. Milk thistle plant tincture taken twice daily in water for a month will help the liver clear toxins from the body which in turn will improve your inner environment. (Available from: www. positivemedicine.co.uk) Try some silicea 6x tissue salt 3x daily for a month as this will help clear trapped sebum. Use evening primrose oil on your face after washing to nourish your skin and keep it from drying out. Mix a drop of Ti Tree essential oil in with it to help reduce bacteria levels. You can also use a 25/75 mix of calendula tincture and which hazel water on cotton pads to clean the skin before putting the oil on. This will help break down the sebum blocking the follicles and will allow your skin to breathe again. Talking of breathing, breathing exercises can be a great way of inducing relaxation and increasing energy giving oxygen to the body and as many of us do not breathe properly this might be something worth learning. Any disruption or dis-ease is fundamentally an energy issue. If your vital force is in anyway compromised you will be made aware of this through the language of symptoms. A symptom is always an effect.
Best of health |
