Unfortunately, acne happens for many different reasons- stress/anxiety, hormones, excess oil/clogged pores, toxins within the body, medications and negative reactions to foods/poor diet. If there is a healthy or unhealthy balance internally... then we show it externally. Besides a well balanced skin care regimen, I believe that the best way to clear up acne is to start on the inside!
Here are 11 natural ways to clear up your acne-
Chinese Face Mapping- Use this chart to identify some of the possible reasons behind your breakouts, that way you have somewhere to start. Example: I get breakouts on my chin every couple of weeks which may have a connection to my reproductive system (a.k.a. hormonal breakouts).
Drink Plenty of Water- Water helps your body to flush out toxins/impurities! By drinking approx. 64oz. of water a day you're not only removing toxins but you're also providing the necessary hydration for your skin to stay healthy.
Drink Green Tea- Substitute your soda/pop with a cup of green tea! It naturally contains a high amount of catechins (anti-oxidants), anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties to help fight off acne. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine because it can dehydrate the skin!
Use Coconut Oil- coconut oil contains Lauric Acid and Capric Acid which are 2 of the most powerful antimicrobial fatty acids. They help to fight off bacteria within the skin when applied topically and taken internally. Coconut Oil also contains Vitamin E (helps to regulate hyperactive oil glands), Vitamin K (antimicrobial), Vitamin A (helps regulate cell turnover when consumed) and anti-inflammatory properties! Replace your cooking oil with coconut oil and spot treat your acne with it as well! You will see positive results.
Super B-Complex by Nature's Bounty- Taking this daily has helped my skin SO much! It has biotin and folic acid along with B/C vitamins to help give your skin what it needs. Always consult a doctor before taking any sort of vitamin or supplement and never take more than directed! Our bodies can only absorb so much at one time and anything in excess is never a good thing!
Colorful Fruits & Vegetables- Try adding at least one of them to each meal! For breakfast, add blueberries and raspberries to your Greek yogurt or cereal. Have a "colorful" salad for lunch- mix it up and don't be afraid to put as many veggies and even fruits as you want! For dinner, substitute your baked potato with a sweet potato! Raw fruits and vegetables are PACKED with anti-oxidants, vitamins A/B/C etc. and are an important piece to looking/feeling healthy.
Magnesium- It is said that magnesium can help combat acne by reducing stress within the body and also helps to reduce inflammation. Some foods with good levels of magnesium are spinach, kale, nuts (shown above), whole milk, dried apricots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, tomatoes, blackberries, bananas and oranges! Try some almonds and blackberries for a small snack during the day (you'll also get a good amount of protein, vitamin C, iron and calcium)!
Omega-3 Fatty Acids- These are the "good fats" that our bodies regularly need. According to chriskresser.com, consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may lead to smoother, younger-looking skin with a visible reduction in inflammatory skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. I got mine at Costco, but there are plenty of brands that are just as great! Nature's Bounty has odorless gels that are really easy to swallow.
Miso Soup- The "miso" in the broth is actually a concentrated paste made from fermented soy beans. When all ingredients are added this soup is packed with anti-oxidants, linoleic acid (helps lighten pigmentation within skin), essential fatty acids, vitamin E and the fermented ingredients help to fight off bacteria, boost the immune system and remove toxins from the body. Try a low sodium miso if you have a sensitivity to sodium (I get headaches).
Get Rid of White Foods- Foods like white bread, white rice, white refined flour, French fries and mashed potatoes have GOT to go if you want clear skin. All of those sugary cookies, cakes, breads etc. are the main culprits not only when it comes to acne but also all around bad health. Try substituting your sandwich bread or pasta with a whole grain one. When you get a side of rice get brown instead! Not only will you see a difference... you'll feel it!
Yoga- Stress can cause a TON of internal issues including acne. According to NCCAM (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine) studies suggest that practicing yoga (as well as other forms of regular exercise) might improve quality of life; reduce stress; lower heart rate and blood pressure; help relieve anxiety, depression, and insomnia; and improve overall physical fitness, strength, and flexibility. Try adding a yoga class to your schedule 2-3x a week either before you begin your day or before you wind down for bed. It will make a huge difference!
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