Acne is the most prevalent skin condition in the western world and teenagers in particular can become very self-conscious if they suffer from acne
In brief, acne is a skin ailment that generally manifests during adolescence and is caused by over activity of the sebaceous glands. The sebum produced by the glands cannot escape because the hair follicles become blocked by keratin. The keratin blockage becomes black, forming blackheads
85% of people between 12 and 25 are affected. The most commonly afflicted group is pubescent boys and the second most commonly afflicted group is women aged 20 - 40.
Although some aspects of acne are hereditary, other factors contribute to it. Over-consumption of dietary fats, especially trans-fat in margarine, cause acne by increasing sebum production.
How Can We Treat This Condition Naturally?
- Brewer's yeast has been found to be useful for the treatment of acne. In one double blind clinical study it was found that in more than 80% of the former patients, the condition was considered to be healed or considerably improved
- Vitamins that help: Folic Acid, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3 oral and topical, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6 (all available in our Foodstate B Complex), Vitamin D, Vitamin E. Vitamin A deficiency can be a cause, however it is important to only take the Foodstate form of Beta-Carotene. High dose Vit A supplements are potentially toxic
- Minerals that help: Chromium, Selenium, Silicon, Zinc orally and topically, Silver orally and topically. Calcium and/or a Potassium deficiency can be a contributing factor
- Lipids that help: Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA), Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Lauric Acid
- Foods that help: There are too many to list, and those that are effective when applied topically are marked with a “T”. In brief:
Propolis (T), Aloe Vera (T), Green Tea, Fish oils, Flax seed oil, Lavender, Tea Tree, Neem, Oregano and Tea Tree oils (all “T”)