Does Treating Acne Holistically Really Work?
For many of us who have or are struggling with acne, considering a holistic approach isn’t typically always the first option we think of. Our culture has taught us that acne should be treated with creams or prescription medications. But if this is so effective, why are 50 million Americans still suffering with acne?
When I was a teenager, I suffered from consistent breakouts. I visited a three dermatologists and was prescribed retin-a, differin, and antibiotics. The creams dried my skin out so badly, I chose to stop and deal with the breakouts instead. And the antibiotics helped but did my body no favors. At no point did anyone ever tell me that my diet might be part of the problem. In fact, the medical community seems to ignore almost any kind of dietary connection to medical disease or suffering.
So I spent 10 years of my life battling breakouts. I used tea tree oils, benzoyl peroxides, and salicylic acids. It helped a little, but it wasn’t comfortable nor did it really solve the problem. It was only by accident that I ended up discovering the profound effect that diet and stress was having on my own skin. After making some important adjustments, I saw huge changes in my skin in just a matter of weeks. From there, it took me about a year to naturally clear my skin (mostly because I had to figure it all out on my own). But what was one year compared to TEN trying to treat it the “conventional” way?
A topical-only approach is a quick fix rather than a long-term solution. I know what the desire is like to want acne to go away immediately, but the immediate gratification of a few pimples gone doesn’t mean others will not follow. They will keep on coming unless we find the root cause and make long-term health changes.
Going a natural route isn’t always immediate. It takes work, mindfulness, and dedication. But I can tell you that it does in fact work and to me it is 100% WORTH IT! To be able to feel my smooth skin with ZERO bumps has done numbers for my self esteem. If you’re committed to change, magical things can happen and you’ll look and feel better than ever before.
Elise May, CN + LE, is the owner and practitioner behind SKINutritious. She has helped over 1,000 clients clear acne with detoxing treatments, clear skin coaching, and holistic skincare.
Work with Elise. Book online here.
