The Good

The Bad, and The Downright Ugly!

Good fats: Fish such as mackerel, sardines and wild salmon, raw nuts, seeds, and their oils (flax, sesame, almond, walnut, pecan, sunflower, etc.) are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 oils. Due to our modern diets, these are most often lacking in the foods we eat. These fats are important for acne and the skin because they are one of the largest components in the skin. 

Water: The second most important component of the body next to oxygen. It is needed for every cell in the body and helps to flush out any unwanted wastes. It is absolutely beneficial to drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water per day. This is so simple it is almost ridiculous. 

Acidophilus: In our bodies we all have a balance between the good and bad bacteria. If you have ever taken antibiotics, the birth control pill, been under stress, or eaten a highly refined diet, it is most likely that you are lacking in the ‘good’ bacteria. When we have too many of the ‘bad’ bacteria, we have more toxins being released into the body. To restore balance, certain foods such as organic plain yogurt or kefir and even naturally fermented sauerkraut help to increase our friendly bacteria. Often, people will need to supplement with good bacteria, this is called acidophilus. 

Beta-carotene/vitamin A: Carrots, squash, and leafy greens such as spinach and chard, contain high amounts of beta-carotene. This is beneficial because it aids in reducing sebum production. 

Vitamin E: Is needed to help vitamin A function properly. It is found in foods such as avocados, seeds and flaxseed oil. 

Fibre: A diet high in fibre helps to keep the colon clean and rid the body of harmful toxins. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains (not all bread products), and legumes are good choices. 

Vitamin B6: Women who tend to have acne flare-ups during PMS are often responsive to this vitamin. Good sources include whole grains, bananas, sunflower seeds and raw nuts. 

Vitamin C: An important vitamin to improve tissue healing. And it’s not only found in citrus. Such vegetables as broccoli and peppers also contain high amounts of this vitamin. 

Zinc: An important nutrient for local hormone activation, tissue regeneration and immune-system activity. Foods rich in zinc include soybeans and whole grains.  

Bad fats: Fried and greasy foods should be avoided. Included in the bad fats are also the hydrogenated fats (partially hydrogenated, margarine, vegetable oil) which are found in most prepared foods. This may include: breads, crackers, muffins, cereals, ice cream, frozen entrees, instant pasta, sauces, salad dressings, candy bars, etc. Be on the watch for these, for they are often ‘hidden’ in foods. 

Coffee: Unfortunately, coffee can become a toxic burden on the body for it plugs up the liver. It should never be relied on for a daily beverage but rather drunk as a treat from time to time. 

Dairy: An important food for growth, but many people have good results when they abstain from dairy. Calcium-rich alternatives include green leafy vegetables, almonds, sesame seeds and broccoli. For other options, try goat’s milk, soy or rice beverages. However, be particularly cautious about many of the soy products for they often contain loads of sugar. 

Sugar: Not only found in the obvious candy and desserts, sugar is also high in refined carbohydrates. Foods such as white-flour products, bagels and even muffins are not only high in sugar but also empty calories which rob the body of important nutrients. It also causes a disruption with blood sugar balance.

·        Over-washing and repetitive rubbing can make things worse.

·        Wash with castile or other pure soaps that do not contain detergents (available at a health food store).

·        Natural, water-based products are more beneficial than oil-based ones.

·        Always, use a fresh facecloth, not one that has been hanging wet overnight.

·        Keep makeup brushes and sponges clean to reduce the amount of bacteria. Dip them in alcohol or wash them with warm water and soap.

·        Freshly squeezed lemon juice and water splashed on to the face makes a refreshing exfoliating treatment.

·        Soothing ointments of calendula, aloe-vera gel or comfrey are cleansing and antiseptic. They will also help heal the skin if scarring has occurred.

·        Tea-tree oil is beneficial because of its antibacterial properties.

·        Wash your face with warm water, then cold water alternating three times.