Acne

About Acne

Acne is an inflammation of the pilosebaceous units of certain body areas, predominantly the face, and to a lesser extent the trunk and buttocks, that manifests as comedones, papulopustules (pimples), or nodules and cysts (nodulocystic). Pitted, depressed, or hypertrophic scars may follow all types but especially nodulocystic. Acne results from a change in the keratinization pattern in the pilosebaceous unit, with keratinous material becoming more dense and blocking secretion of sebum. These kertain plugs are called comedomes. Androgens stimulate sebaceous glands to produce larger amounts of sebum which contribute to formation of comedomes. Bacteria on the skin produce proinflammatory mediators which cause an inflammatory response in the pilosebaceous unit and further contribute to formation of comedomes.

Treating Acne | My Approach:

My holistic approach to healing acne involves addressing the elevated androgens and hormone imbalances, imbalance in bacteria, disruption of the skin barrier, and inflammation in the skin with natural interventions. The treatments I use to address the causes of acne are hormone testing, allergy testing, microbiome testing, diet, herbs, nutritional supplements, lifestyle changes and prescription medications when necessary. I also focus on topical skincare and skin barrier support.