Acne

Acne, a disease of the oil glands, is a common problem that doesn’t always have a simple answer. When oil glands are plugged, whiteheads and blackheads appear, and bacteria can build up in the blocked glands. Because the causes of this problem are varied, we provide a variety of treatment options that are personalized to the patient. Oral medications, topical medications and other treatment options may be recommended to our patients.

What can make acne worse?

  • High‐glycemic foods

    (those that spike your blood sugar like refined sugar and white flour) have been found to worsen acne.

  • Milk, particularly skim milk, can worsen acne in some people.

    Perhaps because some milk (even organic) can contain hormones, which may increase oil production leading to acne. If you choose to decrease your dairy intake, it is important to find calcium through other sources like dark green vegetables and almonds.

  • Dry skin can also aggravate acne, so don’t let your skin get too dry.

    It is does, the oil glands may try to compensate by increasing oil production…which can lead to more acne.

  • Using the wrong products to clean your skin can also cause problems.

    Use a gentle wash such as Cetaphil, Cerave, Aveeno or Dove and follow with a lotion that is listed as     “non‐comedogenic” such as Cetaphil, Cerave and Aveeno.

What can improve acne?

  • Vitamins

    Some people claim that vitamins A and D, the mineral zinc, and omega‐3 fatty acids can help with acne. This may be true for some people, but even “natural” products can have side effects. Thus, care should be taken when using these supplements as to not take a dose higher than is recommended in the instructions on the product.

  • Probiotics

    There are those who feel that probiotics improve acne, especially products containing lactobacillus and bifidobaterium strains. However, if you take antibiotics for your acne, probiotics can help re‐populate your intestinal system with “good bacteria” that may have been destroyed by the antibiotics.

  • Decreasing stress

    Decrease stress, as it can worsen acne, so getting adequate sleep, regular exercise and relaxation/meditation can help.