Acne

Acne is the most common of all skin problems, and is the scourge of teenagers, particularly males.

Sebum

In this problem, excess keratin (a major protein in skin) blocks the hair follicles, re­sulting in ballooning. This can cause either blackheads or whiteheads, depending on the level of blockage. This is because the sebum (the oil naturally secreted by the skin) cannot get out through the blocked pore.

Bacteria

In these conditions a particular bacterium (Propionobacterium Acnes) multiplies and releases enzymes which break down the oily sebum and promote inflammation. This, if severe, can cause scarring of the surrounding tissues.

The major cause of this problem is increased levels of male sex hormones in both sex­es, which triggers off increased production of sebum and keratin.

Other causes are the presence of intestinal toxins in the bloodstream, and use of certain drugs, particularly steroids. Even some cosmetic preparations can enhance the problem.

Actions to be taken should be aimed at removing excess sebum from the skin, preventing closure of the hair follicles and reducing bacteria levels on the skin. The most important factor of all is correct nutrition.

Actions advised:

¨      Thoroughly cleanse daily.

¨      Wash with antibacterial soap; Tea Tree Oil soap is probably the best of these. Tea Tree Oil lotion would probably help.

¨      Avoid grease and oils, including greasy skin care products.

¨      Attain optimum nutrition as follows:

1)      Avoid sugars, fried foods, red meats, milk products and refined carbohydrates.

2)      Increase unrefined foods, e.g. wholemeal bread, brown rice, jacket potatoes. Eat large amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. All this increases dietary fibre, which helps to absorb toxins from the intestinal tract.

3)      Keep away from junk foods: hamburgers, pizzas, cola, fizzy drinks, biscuits, cakes. This will reduce sugar, fat and chemical consumption.

The major supplements for skin are vitamin A, including the vegetable form beta-carotene, zinc, and the B vitamins.

The supplements suggested would therefore be:

¨      Beta-carotene: up to 50,000 iu. per day.

¨      Zinc picolinate: up to 30 mg per day.

¨      Vitamin E and selenium: together help prevent scarring and help produce the anti­oxidant glutathione peroxidase.

¨      Chromium picolinate or GTF chromium: Some acne sufferers have impaired glucose tolerance.

The herb Cats Claw may help because of  its  immune-stimulating properties.

To buy any of these products, click this link: www.NationalNutrition.co.uk