Acne

Signs or Symptoms

Pimples, Whiteheads, Blackheads, Oily skin, Enlarged pores, Pus filled cyst like pimples

Causes

Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands of the skin produce sebum, a fatty secretion, faster than the pores can excrete it. This along with dead cells creates a plug and blocks the opening of the pore.

The underlying cause of this is an imbalance in hormones. It is during the teenage years that hormone production increases. This condition is also common in women who are supplementing hormones, like taking birth control pills or hormone replacement.

Standard treatment

There are topical and oral treatments for acne. Medications like Retin A and other topically applied agents attempt to dry the pores and kill bacteria on the skin. Oral agents like Accutane and antibiotics maybe used. These have side effects like dry mouth and can cause birth defects if used by pregnant women.

AK Approach

Testing is done to determine if there is ways to help balance your hormone system using nutrients to up regulate your ability to detoxify these substances in your liver. Common nutritional deficiencies can make you unable to completely breakdown these hormones. Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the acne. A specific program for your needs is created.