Natural treatment for skin problems includes a combination of healthy nutrition and good dietary choices, taking specific vitamins and minerals (supplements), herbs and using natural skin care products.
There are thousands of acne remedies and skincare products that promise the world, but not everything works for every person. We are all individuals and every person’s experience with skin problems such as acne is different. You may feel you are alone in this but you are not. Your naturopath and the information on this site will provide you with solutions to help clear your skin.
Remember that you are amazing and your skin does not define you!
Skin problems such as acne is not only painful emotionally but can be physically as well. So read the information below and let your healing journey begin.
Diet for Skin Problems
Natural treatment for skin problems must focus on a healthy diet. See below some recommendations.
- Adopt a healthy, well-balanced diet high in fibre and fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Drink two litres of filtered water daily.
- Include phytoestrogens in your diet – alfalfa, soy (fermented form), linseeds, lentils and chickpeas. Phytoestrogens may help reduce excessive oestrogen which may be a trigger for your skin condition.
- Include essential fatty acids in your diet – nuts (except peanutes), seeds, some oils (linseed/flaxseed) and oily fish (including mackerel, mullet and salmon).
- Buy organic foods whenever possible.
- Reduce skin congesting foods such as dairy and cheese; oranges; milk chocolate; and oily foods such as peanut butter.
- Reduce your intake of saturated fats.
- Avoid additives, preservatives and chemicals such as artificial sweeteners.
- Avoid caffeine as much as possible
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid sugar on its own (including chocolate) and hidden in foods.
Natural treatment for skin problems including supplements
Natural treatment for skin problems usually includes the use of specific supplements – targeted vitamins and minerals to not only assist with the cause of the skin problem but also in the healing process.
- Zinc is an essential mineral used for wound healing and the normal oil gland function of the skin. It is also involved in the maintenance of vitamin A levels, collagen synthesis, and to help maintain hormonal balance.
- Beta-carotene is transformed into vitamin A in the body. These two nutrients act as skin antioxidants, and may be of assistance in treating acne, other skin conditions and wound healing.
- Vitamin A is a powerful vitamin for the treatment and healing of acne proned skin.
- Lactoferrin promotes intestinal microflora balance and supports healthy immune function along mucous membranes. It can be used in the management of mild to moderate acne.
- Sulphur is traditionally indicated as a liver tonic to support the body’s detoxification processes, and address a variety of skin conditions, including acne, which are associated with sluggish liver function
- Di-indole methane (DIM) is a nutritional supplement derived from cruciferous vegetables that help correct androgen (e.g. testosterone) excess, a common cause of acne. DIM is specifically helpful for sore, cystic acne. The dose is dependent on body weight.
- Sea buckthorn is uniquely rich in omega 7, but also contains omega 3, 6 and 9. It is a wonderful natural healing agent for mucous membranes and dry, rough skin.
NB. For best results, try these recommended supplements for a period of three months. These supplements are best taken under the care and guidance of your healthcare practitioner.
Herbs for skin problems
Natural treatment for skin problems often includes the prescribing of herbal medicine such as:
- Blood purifying herbs – Echinacea, Blue Flag, Clivers, Red Clover, Burdock and Yellow Dock.
- Skin healing herbs – Calendula and Gotu Kola.
- Hormone balancing herbs – Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus castus), Dong Quai, Peony, Licorice and Black Cohosh. Chaste tree is indicated for pre-menstrual acne.
NB. You should not take any of the above herbs if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill, fertility drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment or other medication unless they are recommended by a registered, experienced practitioner.
Natural skin care tips
- Proper nutrition and skin cleanliness, together with adequate rest, fresh air and sunlight, are helpful in treating acne.
- Make sure your skincare regime includes cleansing, toning and moisturising twice daily. Products containing anti-bacterial herbs such as tea tree oil to reduce infection are ideal. It is also important to maintain moisture balance using an oil-free moisturiser. A clay mask once a week will remove dirt and tighten pores.
- Do not scrub the skin. Scrubbing stimulates growth of skin cells, aggravating the condition. Instead, try an anti-bacterial face wash. Choose oil-free cosmetics and ensure all makeup brushes and sponges are washed regularly. Keep your hands away from your face to avoid spreading acne.
- Regular exercise is great for your skin, as it improves your circulation and aids in the removal of toxins. Try brisk walking, jogging, swimming or any active sport three to four times a week.