A naturopathic physician typically will try to treat the cause of the condition rather than simply palliate the symptoms. One possible cause of acne in teenagers is an unbalanced endocrine system (hormones.) Ensure your son is receiving an adequate amount of essential fatty acids such as fish oil on a daily basis. Also, have him avoid dairy (cow's milk/cheese products) for at least a couple of months. There are many additives to these products which easily unbalance the endocrine system. Typically, all skin issues tend to have some basis in the digestive system so probiotics and liver support may also be helpful. Dr. Karen Benton www.countrydoc.com
answered by Dr K B N
Almost everyone has suffered from acne at one time or another in his or her life. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous glands (glands in the skin that secrete an oily substance) of the face, the neck and back. When the sebaceous glands become clogged with the oily substance they create, the accumulation results in pimples. There are several forms of acne, but the most common is acne vulgaris, found primarily in adolescents. The exact cause of acne is not known, but factors that contribute to this condition include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional factors include allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants, cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle. In addition, the skin functions to eliminate a portion of the body's toxic waste by sweating. If the body contains more toxins than the kidneys or liver can effectively discharge, the skin takes over. In fact, some doctors call the skin the 3rd kidney. As toxins escape through the skin, they can disrupt the health and integrity of the skin, creating issues.
Fortunately, there are a number of alternative healing methods you can try that are natural, safe and effective. Recommendations for Wellness Note: Some of these recommendations may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements are experienced. Apply distilled white vinegar (can be diluted if too strong) to the face and affected areas. Allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with cool water. Lemon or any other citrus fruit works great as a natural exfoliate, removing dead skin cells that may clog the pores. As with the white vinegar, apply the juice of a lemon (or desired citrus juice) to the face. Allow it to dry for about 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water. You may feel a mild sting or burn when the lemon juice is applied. If so, diluting the juice is acceptable. Increase water consumption. Water helps flush toxins out and help transport nutrients in the body. Eat a properly balanced diet to ensure proper nutrition. Take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement to make up for nutrients missing in today's foods. Echinacea or Oregon grape can be used to boost the immune system and fight acne-causing bacteria. Dandelion, Burdock or red clover can help to keep the liver clear of toxic overload. Herbal combinations such as Ayurvedic Skin Detox, and BP-X can also be used to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce acne. Large quantities of vitamin A have been successfully used to treat severe acne. Large amounts, however, can be toxic and should only be used when working with your health care provider. Consider adding additional zinc to your diet. Zinc aids in the healing of tissues and assists in preventing scarring. It is also important for the body in resisting infection and inflammation. To clear and heal the skin, try a homeopathic Acne remedy. It can help to dry up pimples & prevent future outbreaks. ? Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer (www.soulhealer.com) 2006. All rights reserved. Dr. Rita Louise, Ph D is a Naturopathic Physician and the founder of the Institute Of Applied Energetics. It is her unique gift as a medical intuitive that enlivens her work. Let Dr. Rita assist you bringing health, healing and wholeness back into your life. Visit http://www.soulhealer.com or http://www.appliedenergeticsinstitute.com for more information.
answered by R L