Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans each year. Adult acne is on the rise. When I treat acne, I investigate causes such as food, microbiome, hormones and toxins. Skin is unique from other parts of the body because it is on the outside of our bodies so we can access it. Topicals can make a big difference in terms of how quickly we heal from acne as well as how quickly dark spots fade. Topicals are important. 

Effective topicals address a particular skin issue. Some actions that I seek include: optimizing skin pH, decreasing sebum, decreasing hormonal effects on hair follicles, decreasing inflammation, balancing bacteria and/or yeast, moisturizing, and addressing dark spots. 

One topical I particularly like is tea. It is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, helping to decrease redness. Different teas have different properties. Green tea helps reduce sebum. Both green and spearmint tea are anti-androgenic, decreasing hormones like testosterone. 

To use tea on the skin, simply boil water and pour over the tea bag or loose tea leaves. Let it steep for a couple minutes. Allow the tea to cool. Use a towel or paper towel to dip into the tea and wipe over areas with acne. This can be used on the face, neck, back, or chest. This can be done any time of day or at the beginning of a skin care routine. 

For more help with acne, schedule a free, 30 minute phone consultation.