Acne

What is Acne?

 

Acne isn’t just a teenage problem—it can follow you into adulthood, especially if you're dealing with hormonal imbalances, stress, or digestive issues. Acne is more than just skin deep. It’s often a reflection of what’s going on inside your body, particularly your hormones, digestion, and stress levels. Whether it’s cystic acne, hormonal breakouts, or occasional flare-ups, tackling the root cause is key to achieving clear, healthy skin.

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Common Symptoms of Acne

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• Cystic, painful pimples deep under the skin

• Hormonal breakouts, especially around the jawline, chin, or forehead

• Whiteheads, blackheads, and clogged pores

• Oily or greasy skin

• Scarring or post-acne dark spots

• Inflammation and redness

• Skin irritation and sensitivity

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Why Does Acne Happen?

 

While acne is often seen as just a skin issue, it’s actually a complex condition with multiple contributing factors:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones—especially androgens (like testosterone)—can increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and acne. This is common in PMS, perimenopause, and post-birth control syndrome.

• Stress: Elevated cortisol (the stress hormone) can trigger oil production and inflammation, which may lead to breakouts. Plus, stress can throw off your digestive system, leading to skin flare-ups.

• Digestive Imbalances: An unhealthy gut can contribute to acne. Leaky gut, food sensitivities, or an imbalance in gut bacteria can cause inflammation and affect your skin health.

• Blood Sugar Imbalances: High blood sugar or insulin resistance can lead to excess sebum production, causing clogged pores and acne. Diets high in refined sugars and processed foods can exacerbate this.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals, like zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin D, can worsen acne and slow the healing process.

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Dr. Maya Matthews' Approach to Help You Achieve Clear Skin Naturally

 

Rather than just covering up the symptoms with topical treatments or harsh medications, I take a holistic approach to address the root causes of your acne and support your skin from the inside out.

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1. Balancing Hormones to Reduce Breakouts

 

Hormonal fluctuations are one of the biggest contributors to adult acne, especially for women in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. By focusing on hormone balance, I help you reduce the oil production and inflammation that contribute to acne, especially around the chin and jawline.

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2. Supporting Gut Health and Digestion

 

Your gut health is closely tied to your skin’s health. A healthy gut means a healthy immune system and better skin. I work to heal your gut, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion, all of which can lead to fewer breakouts and better skin overall.

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3. Managing Stress and Supporting the Adrenals

 

Chronic stress can cause your body to produce excess cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and acne flare-ups. By addressing your stress levels and supporting your adrenal glands, I can help you manage cortisol production and clear up your skin.

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4. Optimizing Nutrition for Skin Health

 

What you eat directly impacts your skin. I focus on a nutrient-dense diet that supports your skin’s healing process. This includes nutrient-rich foods, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory options to calm inflammation and promote clear skin.

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5. Reducing Inflammation and Supporting Detox

 

Inflammation is at the root of many skin conditions, including acne. I take a comprehensive approach to reduce inflammation, whether through dietary changes, supplements, or lifestyle adjustments, to help your body detoxify and promote clearer, healthier skin.

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Targeted Supplements for Acne Relief

 

Certain supplements can help support your skin’s healing process and prevent future breakouts. Here are some that can make a big difference:

• Zinc – Supports immune function and reduces inflammation, helping to heal acne and reduce breakouts.

• Vitamin A – Promotes skin cell turnover and helps to reduce acne-causing blockages in pores.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduce inflammation and balance oil production, helping to prevent cystic acne.

• DIM (Diindolylmethane) – Helps metabolize excess estrogen and balance hormones, particularly beneficial for hormonal acne.

• Probiotics – Improve gut health, balance the microbiome, and reduce inflammation, leading to clearer skin.

• Spearmint Tea – Known for its ability to reduce androgens, which helps prevent hormonal acne.

• Vitamin D – Supports immune function and helps to reduce inflammation, preventing flare-ups.

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Take the Next Step

 

Acne isn’t something you have to just “deal with.” If you’re tired of constant breakouts and are ready to get to the root cause of your acne, let’s create a personalized plan that supports your skin from the inside out.

 

Book a consultation today to start your journey toward clearer skin and lasting confidence.