Let's talk HORMONES ft. Dani Reed Natural Health

WHAT IS HORMONAL ACNE AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

Hormonal acne typically occurs when there is an imbalance in sex / reproductive hormones and can occur at any age however is generally more common after puberty and into the 20s. Hormonal acne can be exacerbated by both external and internal factors such as stress, environmental toxins, excess androgens (such as testosterone), digestive problems, nutrient deficiencies and medications.

HOW DO HORMONES AFFECT OUR SKIN?

Hormonal imbalances often lead to increased skin inflammation, excessive sebum (oil) production and production of acne causing bacteria.

HOW CAN WE TREAT HORMONAL ACNE?

• Identify root causes of hormonal imbalances
• Rectify nutrient deficiencies
• Address gut function and inflammation
• Topical treatments
• Modify diet and lifestyle to support healthy hormones
• Identify and eliminate food triggers
• Optimise function of elimination organs; kidneys, gut, liver, lymphatic system and skin
• Address stress and nervous system function
• Decrease exposure to environmental toxins
• Seek support from a Naturopath from specific dietary advice, supplement and herb prescription

FOODS TO INTRODUCE

• Optimise fibre intake
• Ensure adequate intake of omega 3 rich foods
• Include foods rich in probiotics
• Increase intake of nuts and seeds
• Adequate protein is important for skin integrity

FOODS TO AVOID

• Refined sugar
• Alcohol
• Cows dairy (some sheep or goat dairy can be tolerated)
• Processed seed and Vegetable oils (canola, vegetable oil, sunflower/ safflower oil)