There’s few things more irritating to those of us with acne prone skin, than seeing it pigeonholed as nothing more than a teenage affliction. In actuality, about 80 percent of people between the ages of 11 and 30 will have an acne outbreak at some point. Although not considered a serious condition from a medical standpoint, there’s a strong case for the serious effects acne can have on our mental health and wellness.
Stress, or more specifically stress of the chronic variety, may be what you need to detox from your lifestyle in order to achieve the kind of clear, radiant skin. While this may seem obvious skin care advice, the challenges we’re facing during this global pandemic can make it difficult to stay positive and stress free on a day-to-day basis. However, attempting to achieve those moments of tranquility may just be what your acne skin needs in order to take a breather.
Acne is associated with internal stress levels, and such chronic stress can make existing breakouts even worse. Chronic stress increases hormones such as cortisol which sends our skin’s sebaceous (oil) glands into overdrive, which then mixes with dead skin cells and breakout-causing bacteria. As we age, our skin’s natural cell turnover slows down, which is why adult skin is more prone to buildup of dead skin cells, and why it is also worth adding a gentle exfoliation to your skincare ritual.
When skin is stressed, it also loses some of its ability to protect itself because its barrier is compromised. For adults, this can lead to further complications, such as inflammation and premature signs of aging. Stress damages collagen, causing wrinkles. Cortisol lowers natural production of Hyaluronic Acid, which dehydrates skin and increases the appearance of fine lines. Dehydration also triggers even more production of excess sebum, which creates the perfect breeding ground for breakout-causing bacteria. Get the picture?
Along with the psychological triggers come the permanent physical reminders (acne scars) which can also harm one’s self esteem. Scarring of skin tissue and other lasting blemishes are often treated with harsh chemicals and invasive, hormone altering treatments which come in a wide variety of synthetic gels, lotions, creams and soaps. These treatments may seemingly be effective immediately, but poses questions about the long term risks to your skin’s natural defense system as well as overall wellbeing.
Our skin is our largest organ that naturally acts as a protective barrier from external stressors. Treating our acne kindly and holistically is all about fortifying this barrier. So how do we do it? While there may not be one definite solution, below are 3 ways to incorporate natural remedies to treat acne in a holistic manner.
In the Gut: Celery Juice
Unsurprisingly, it’s not all about what you put on your skin, it’s also about what you put in your body. Anthony William, #1 New York Times best-selling author of Medical Medium, is the man responsible for putting celery juice on the modern day wellness map and celebrating the healing skincare benefits of juicing this humble vegetable.
Acne is often caused by streptococcus bacteria, a type of bacteria found naturally in the system that can also strengthen over time from taking antibiotics. It nests into the liver and when the liver and lymphatic system weaken, strep can travel and reach the skin. Celery juice’s sodium cluster salts act as an antiseptic and expose and destroy strep bacteria. Celery juice also strengthens the immune system and liver so it can help kill off the strep and help prevent it from becoming acne in the future.
In the Mind: Yoga
Exercising, sleeping well, gardening, or getting creative in any way that inspires you are all simple ways to reduce stress during these uncertain times. Even a quick call with a friend can help you recenter. Overall, being mindful about lifestyle choices can ensure you stay calm and stress free. One of the most tried, true and positively ancient stress reducers and healthy lifestyle go-tos is, of course, yoga.
Calming, parasympathetic, stimulating yoga styles such as yin, slow vinyasa flow or yoga nidra are all options worth considering. They each encourage deep breathing and stimulate the circulatory system, helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body. You’ll feel better and look brighter thanks to the release of endorphins and the stimulating effect on the lymphatic system, as these practices all encourage the release of harmful toxins and stimulate cellular regeneration. Say goodbye to dull, lackluster skin! Not only that, yoga and deep breathing compliment the skin's texture as bumps, blemishes, and redness may fade away thanks to the increased oxygen boosting cell renewal restoration. The more you oxygenate your skin through deep breathing, and the more you stimulate your circulatory system through nourishing stretching, the better you’re bound to feel.
On the Skin: Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a truly natural alternative that gives standard acne treatments a run for their money. This essential oil is one of our favorites on account of its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties — though it shouldn't be used directly on the skin without being diluted in another oil.
Our Clear Skies Face Serum
