Acne? This May Be Your Answer!

Acne? This May Be Your Answer!

We often tackle skin problems from the outside, slathering on so-called miracle creams in hopes for a cure. Not too long ago there was a controversy over skin problems being an internal problem or an external one. Some believed that topical treatments were ineffective because the skin was a dead tissue. Others believed that all skin problems were external, and the internal condition of the body had no effect on the skin. According to ancient Asian medical wisdom, skin problems can be treated both internally and externally.

- Pantothenic acid, also called vitamin-B5, is essential for health and metabolism. Researchers all over the world have published reports about its effects on mental health and acne. All the B-vitamins are essential for different metabolic processes in the body, however, B5 is vital for skin and brain health. A deficiency is evidenced by acne, skin lesions, and depression (such as moderate to severe depression, bi-polar disorder, and other mental health issues) doctors have recently begun using vitamin-B5 to treat teenage and adult acne and mental health disorders. It decreases hormone production which aggravates acne and promotes hormone production which boosts mood and skin health.

-Vitamin-E is essential for skin health. It acts as an immune system booster, preventing skin infections and promoting decreased healing time. For optimum results, take a supplement and massage some onto the skin at least once per day. A vitamin-E deficiency can result in several different types of acne, including the bumps on the back of the arms, and lesions found elsewhere on the body. It acts as an antibiotic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and promotes healthy skin by increasing the body's ability to heal itself. It also helps to regulate several key hormones researchers claim are responsible for acne outbreaks.

-Exfoliation is essential for skin health. Dead skin cells, dirt, dust, and grime from daily activites can clog pores. Using a mild exfoliate daily can help remove dead skin, bacteria, and help keep pores cleaner, reducing the chances of forming blackheads and infection of blocked pores.

-Caffeine is skin’s worst enemy. In addition to causing dehydration, which does cause skin problems due to reduced ability of the body to fight infections, it aggravates the adrenal function, causing hormone imbalances which have been linked to increased acne problems.

-White carbohydrates have been linked, in laboratory studies, to increased hormone production which can lead to insulin spikes. Both white breads, flours, and all forms of refined sugar increase insulin which increases leptin. Increased leptin and insulin production increases the hormones responsible for increased sebum, or skin oil production. This can cause oily skin and increased acne outbreaks.

-Saturated fat, similar to sugars and carbohydrates, researchers say, can increase the hormones responsible for increased sebum production and thus, acne lesions. Reduce saturated fat intake and increase unsaturated and medium chain fatty acid intake. The less saturated fat in a diet (mostly from hydrogenated and animal sources) and the more essential fatty acids in the diet the less acne problems, researchers have concluded.

-Lack of exercise can cause acne problems. In addition to sweating, which helps promote clear healthy skin, regular exercise results in regulated hormone levels. Most acne is a result of hormone imbalances which results in increased oil production. Regular intense exercise promotes clearer, healthier skin by helping balance hormone levels, reduce insulin levels, and improve circulation. (Please see our blog for exercise tips.)

The skin is often the first indicator if internal health. Vitamin deficiencies, poor diet, even dehydration is first evidenced by certain corresponding skin problems. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and unlike our internal organs, needs both care from the inside and care from the outside. Acne is often a result of poor diet, vitamin deficiencies, and lack of proper care. By providing the right care, both externally and internally, acne lesions can be lessened, perhaps even eradicated.

Beautify Your Skin!

Beautiful Skin Starts on the Inside

Healthy, glowing skin is the result of more than a spa treatment or a nice body lotion.

Healthy, blemish free skin is the result of a good diet, water, exercise, and key nutrients. Here are 10 tips for healthy skin from the inside out:

1- Water daily. Healthy clear skin results from a healthy and hydrated body. Drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water daily. If you also drink caffeinated or sugar laden beverages, strive to cut back, and counter each one with an additional glass of water to help the body flush it out.

2- Exercise is good for more than just muscle tone. During exercise the blood vessels dilate at the skin, this flushes out the skin, cleaning it and refreshing it. It also stimulates growth and repair. Exercise results in healthier, more youthful looking skin.

3- Avoid sugar and caffeine. These both stimulate the endocrine system and raise the levels of hormones responsible for breakouts and skin problems. Plus they dehydrate the body, leaving the skin looking dull.

4- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. They contain fiber and vitamins essential for a healthy body and intestines. The healthier we are on the inside, the healthier our skin will be. Plus, they help the body remove toxins and waste matter, leaving it better able to facilitate growth and repair of tissues.

5- Get your Probiotics. Probiotics are good for more than just a healthy gut. They play a key role in the production of essential nutrients, amino acids, and vitamins which are vital for healthy skin. Plus, they help balance the immune system and strengthen it, aiding the body in resisting bacterial infections on the skin.

6- Whole grains and legumes are rich in amino acids and vitamins from the B group. Amino acids and B-vitamins play vital roles in many metabolic processes, a deficiency in B-vitamins can result in a break down of skin tissue. This can lead to infections, blisters, boils, more acne lesions, and scaring. Healthy skin is dependant on a healthy supply of B-vitamins and amino acids.

7- Vitamin-E and essential fatty acids are also important. The body needs them to facilitate tissue repair and maintain the supple skin layers. Vitamin-E used both topically and taken as a supplement can help prevent premature aging of the skin and speed up healing. It also can help reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles. Essential fatty acids play many important roles in skin health.

8- Get adequate sleep. While we sleep, our bodies become more active. While we slumber, our bodies are busy repairing tissue damage, clearing out waste materials, and replenishing itself. Sleep is vital for healthy, clear skin. During sleep the body also produces hormones essential for proper growth and maintenance of the skin.

9- Get your vitamin-C. Avoid ascorbic acid supplements, opt for those rich with bioflavonoids and made with natural ingredients such as rose hips, acerola cherries, and other fruits. Vitamin-C plays any roles in the body including metabolic cycles, blood vessel health, tissue repair, and the immune system. Studies suggest that it also helps regulate certain hormones responsible for skin problems.

10- Avoid junk food. The chemicals and toxins found in overprocessed foods can make the skin looks old and lifeless. The carcinogens found in these foods have been shown to increase cancer and promote aging. The skin is the first place aging shows up.

Healthy skin is vital to a healthy body. In many eastern medical practices, it is believed that the health and condition of the skin is a clear indicator of the health and vitality of the body. It is said that one look at the skin can reveal much about the individual and how well he cares for himself. Look your best by caring for your skin from the inside out.