This week has gone by so quickly and with it has come a lot of stress of getting organized for clinic. I notice my face breaking out like a teenager – yuck! Yes, even naturopaths-in-training, with their super-clean diets get pimples.
Luckily on Monday we had a lecture with dermatology expert Dr. Adam Gratton, ND. He also happens to be my supervisor on Thursday afternoons. If this post isn’t able to answer your questions, please book an appointment with me on Thursdays between 8am-2pm.
Monday’s lecture covered lots of interesting subjects like atopic dermatitis, fungal skin infections & psoriasis. There are so many naturopathic approaches to these health concerns. Here are a few of the most basic options to try at home. Remember, for the most individualized care please visit me at the clinic:
1. Change your Pillowcase Nightly. This may seem excessive, but changing your pillowcase nightly means you aren’t exposed to last night’s oils. This is especially helpful for individuals suffering from acne.
2. Keep Moisture In. Washing your face on a regular basis with stripping cleansers can be particularly damaging. Cleansers such as Cetaphil will hold moisture in, while also improving skin’s barrier function.
3. Consider a Hypoallergenic Diet. This dietary adjustment is helpful for a number of skin conditions including acne, psoriasis and dermatitis. It involves the removal of a wide range of testy foods like red meat, bananas, and gluten products. It can be complicated so work with a professional to get it right.
4. Get enough Vitamin D. Vitamin D is extremely important for skin health. Best of all you get it from skin exposure to the sun – just not too much that is. You can learn more here. Concerned about your Vitamin D levels? I can check them for you.
5. Choose pH Neutral. Select detergents that are gentle on your skin like these from Mrs. Meyer’s. You can also choose gentle body cleansers like those from Ferlow Botanicals, which I was introduced to by Dr. Gratton on Monday.
When it comes to skin, we are all willing to do whatever it takes to put our best face forward, but this doesn’t always means resorting to harsh chemicals. Take the gentle root to clean & clear.
Hello,
I just found a blog on oil cleansing as a cure to acne. The woman promoting it, however, stated that she suffered from cystic (hormonal) acne. I have no idea what kind of acne I have… I’m twenty and have never had severe acne but, have always seemed to have at least mild acne. Never fully clear skin. I’ve been using Proactiv for a few years and am not pleased. She suggested using a blend of cold-press caster oil and extra virgin olive oil to first message the face, then rest a hot wet washcloth on face until cool, and then wipe the face with washcloth. She claims the oil acts as a makeup-remover, a cleanser, and a moisturizer all in one. I am hopeful of this method. Have you heard of this oil cleansing method and what do you think? I mainly wonder if this cure might be exclusive to certain types of acne like cystic.
Hello Karina,
This is very interesting. I have not heard of this particular type of cleansing method. I have no doubt it could be effective considering oils are very important for the skin, however, I can’t say for sure whether or not it will work for you since I don’t know your specific case, history, etc. This is certainly worth discussing with an ND in your area. Visit my resources page to find one near you: http://thetravelingnaturopath.com/resources/ or feel free to visit me in the clinic. Best of luck to you.