ratboy83

there are different reasons/ contributing factors for acne:-

1) if due to toxin overload

burdock- a blood purifier
dandelion- a blood purifier and kidney/ liver tonic
drink lots of water/ exercise- flushes toxins from the bod
eat a toxic free diet


2) vitamin/ mineral deficiencies

vitamin A (known as the skin vitamin)- choose vegetable sources such as carrots, leafy greens, broccoli as animal sources are often high in saturated fat which is pro-inflammatory and contraindicated for any skin ailment
Zinc (essential for skin healing)- whole grains, nuts and seeds (esp. pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pine nuts and brazil nuts) can be good sources, but pytic acid in these sourecs often hinders absorption so also include lean meat.
Vitamin C (essential for collagen formation)- citrus fruit, kiwi fruit, berries, brocolli, pretty much all friut and veg too.


3) infection

echinacea- boosts the immune system, also is a blood purifier like burdock root
tea tree oil- very good to apply topically to the affected area
zinc and vitamin C- the two major immunity nutrients

4) hormonal imbalances (linked to puberty, PMT etc)

evening primose oil- hormonal balancer due to GLA content, leads to oil secretions being balanced (sebaceous glands become over active during puberty). this is a very beneficial supplement but can be quite slow acting.


5) poor hygiene

wash twice a day with a plant based cleanser.

conclusion: you need to evaluate your situation. and then determine what action to take. evening primose oil is most of the best as acne is often primarily linked to hormonal problems- the benficial GLA is very rare in food and many cannot naturally produce it from its precursor Linoleneic Acid. this where the supplement is invaluable.

however, teenagers diets are notoriously filled with toxin laden junk, low in nutrients- which has a knock on effect on the immune system, and many can be uncoperative in regards to keeping a good self image and maintaining good hygiene.

hope this helps,

alex.