What Might Be Causing Your Breakouts

To put it simply, acne occurs when the oil glands (pores) in the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.

Our sebaceous glands are meant to produce sebum, which is an ‘oil’ designed to keep the skin lubricated and soft. However, when hormonal changes and other factors cause the gland to produce an excess of sebum (OR thicker than normal sebum) the problem arises. The pore becomes blocked and there is a higher chance that bacteria will multiply, leading to inflammation and acne.

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of certain sex hormones (known as androgens) create an increase in the size and oil production of glands.

Hormonal acne can return again in our 30’s, as our levels of androgen hormones increase. Testosterone (an androgen hormone) stimulates sebaceous glands in women to secrete ‘thicker’ sebum. This can cause clogged pores and an increase the likeliness of ‘adult Acne’.

What else might be going on??

1) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels. The condition usually effects women between the ages of 15 to 44.

Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones (androgens). This hormonal imbalance causes menstrual cycle irregularities (including missed periods) and leads to other unwanted side effects.

The facts-

In PCOS; many small, fluid-filled sacs grow inside the ovaries. The word “polycystic” means “many cysts.” These sacs are actually follicles, each one containing an immature egg. The eggs rarely mature enough to trigger ovulation (making getting pregnant more difficult).

The lack of ovulation results in estrogen and progesterone levels being lower than usual, while androgen levels (masculine hormones) become higher than usual. This causes a disruption of the menstrual cycle and other side effects.

The increase in testosterone triggers excess oil production in the sebaceous glands, which creates the perfect breeding ground for infection and acne.

PCOS-related acne tends to flare in areas that are usually considered ‘hormonally sensitive’ -especially the lower third of the face. This includes the cheeks, jawline, chin, and upper neck.

Those with PCOS tend to get acne that involves tender knots under the skin, rather than fine surface bumps. Breakouts commonly flare up before menstruation and can take several days to go away.

Other common PCOS symptoms are:

• Unwanted Hair growth: Due to excess testosterone, more than 70 percent of women with this condition grow excess hair on their face and body.

• Thinking of hair on the head – Due to excess testosterone women can also experience male pattern baldness.

• Weight gain

• Darkening of the skin: Dark patches of skin can form in body creases like those on the neck, in the groin, and under the breasts.

• Headaches: Hormone changes can trigger headaches in some women.

What causes it?

Doctors aren’t 100% sure what causes PCOS. They believe that high levels of male hormones prevent the ovaries from producing hormones and making eggs normally.

Genes, insulin resistance, and inflammation have all been linked to excess androgen production.

Women with PCOS often have increased levels of inflammation in their body. Being overweight can also contribute to inflammation. Studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen levels.

Treatment

Treatment for PCOS usually starts with lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet, and exercise.

https://www.healthline.com/health/pcos-diet

2) Rosacea

For some, Rosacea is actually the problem NOT acne. Click here to find out wether you may actually have rosacea.

3) Hormonal fluctuations

As previously discussed, certain hormones rise during puberty. These hormones cause an increase in the production of sebum. This results in hair follicles becoming blocked, forming comedones or “clogged pores.” These clogged pores then commonly become infected and inflamed – AKA acne!

Hormonal adult acne tends to flare up at predictable times during our menstrual cycle. For many women, this occurs the week leading up to menstruation or during. However the menstrual cycle is the time when symptoms peak. Some women may also experience a breakout during ovulation.

Perimenopause is the period (which can last for several years) prior to menopause. During this time, hormonal fluctuations are increased which can lead to acne.

Acne located on the Lower third of the face and along the jawline is often more likely to be related to hormonal issues than acne across the forehead or the bridge of the nose.

Hormonal adult acne is often deep, cystic, and sensitive to touch.

See link to find out what you can do to help

4) Poor Gut Health

see Gut Article

5) Stress

During times of stress, cortisol (the stress hormone) increases oil production which can stimulate acne. The Skin-Gut connection has been scientifically proven.

6) An Inflammatory diet

A high glycemic (GI) diet

Foods that increase insulin levels have a high ‘glycaemic index’ (GI). The glycaemic index is a measurement of how carbohydrates have an effect on our blood sugar levels. Foods with a high glycaemic index break down super fast in our body causing a rise in blood sugar levels. This then causes a spike in the amount of insulin our body produces (in hope to re balance the blood sugar level). This spike in blood sugar and insulin then leads to inflammation.

High GI foods include white carbohydrates (eg white bread, chips, pasta, white rice, potatoes, processed biscuits etc) and of course sugar.

SO ….instead switch to low GI food such as non starchy vegetables (swop potato for sweet potato), some fruit, whole grains, nuts, fermented dairy such as yogurt, meat, poultry, fish and eggs.

Non fermented diary (milk) and gluten also cause inflammation in most people.

Treatment

See adult acne article

See gut health

USA or Canadian readers can click here for clinically proven anti-acne skincare products. Australian readers …check back soon as this great product will be available soon here in Auz.

For severe cases of acne or hormonal imbalances please see your healthcare professional or Dermatologist.

🙂 Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse -Dermatology)

Sea buckthorn – Omega’s for SKIN Health.

Sea buckthorn – a Great Vegetarian Source of Omega Essential Fatty Acids  …and so much more.

For centuries, Sea buckthorn berry has been used in traditional medicine to support healthy blood circulation and the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes.

It is a natural vegetation source of essential fatty acids including omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9. It is also a natural source of antioxidants, contains vitamin C, and amino acids.

Like fish oil, sea buckthorn is beneficial for numerous skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Not only are the berries (of the sea buckthorn) packed full of goodness, the leaves and roots can also be used in different forms as well. Despite its name the bush is actually found on land not in the sea.

Sea buckthorn is often used in topical skin products, or turned into an oral supplement (capsules). It is a great way for vegetarians to increase their intake of essential omega fatty acids.

Why Omega Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)?

• They help to keep the skin moist and strong by reducing the amount of water lost through the epidermis (the top layer of skin).
• Anti-inflammatory properties – especially omega-3 fatty acids, are helpful in the treatment of eczema, rosacea and psoriasis (taken orally and sometimes even topically).
• Assits with acne.
• Help prevent premature aging of our skin.
• Mental Health benefits.
• Heart Health
• Help with the management of ADHD

SO …give your Skin a boost and maintain healthy mucous membranes with sea buckthorns (vegetarian) source of essential fatty acids.

Sea buckthorn capsules below

Note:  Flaxseeds, chia and walnuts are also good sources of Omega-3 for your Skin.

Melasma v’s Hyper-pigmentation

….The Low Down

Hyperpigmentation

Is common and usually harmless. Patches of skin become darker in colour due to an excess of the brown pigment ‘melanin’. Usually occurs from:-

• Sun damage over the years
• Post acne or other skin trauma (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation). An example is dark marks that appear after a pimple.

Note:- every time unprotected skin is exposed to UVA rays, a signal is sent to your pigment producing skin cells (melanocytes), to produce more melanin.

 

Melasma

Melasma is a very common skin complaint. The condition causes brown, discoloured patches on the face. Usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It’s also called chloasma OR the ‘mask of pregnancy’ (when it occurs in pregnant women). Melasma is much more common in women than men.

It is primarily related to a rise in women’s estrogenic hormones (such as progesterone), combined with sun exposure. These increased hormones trigger an overproduction of melanin in the skin. It is commonly triggered by birth control pills, hormonal changes in pregnancy or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Some women can however have a genetic predisposition. Most women with melasma have a history of sun exposure.

Melasma is most common among pregnant women, especially those of Latin and Asian descents. People with olive or darker skin, like Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of melasma

Frustratingly, Melasma does not always disappear straight away after giving birth. During pregnancy the best defense in preventing melasma is sun protection.

Treatment for Melasma / Hyperpigmentation

• Sun protection +++
• Exfoliation – Removes dead skin cells and accelerates skin cell turnover.
• Chemical Peels – eg glycolic
• Topical products containing Hydroquinone -helps lighten melasma by inhibiting tyrosinase, which is the enzyme responsible for the production of melanin. Hydroquinone is a naturally occurring substance that is present in blueberries, broccoli and meats.
• Topical Retinol (derived from Vitamin A) – which also great for aging Skin (wrinkles) and acne –not recommended whilst pregnant.
• Topical products containing Vitamin C – help with lightening and brightening.
• Professional Microdermabrasions
• laser pigmentation removal – using specialised medical-grade Lasers.
• Skin needling (Dermal rolling) – stimulates the production of collagen to create smoother, healthier skin. It reduces pigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, enlarged pores, and scarring in general.
• See the Beauty Booster treatment
• REVERSE – line of products (from Rodan + Fields) – have been clinically tested to help visibly even skin tone, to reveal your most radiant and natural complexion. Please visit
  https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au and try the Solution Tool for a personalised recommendation.

Note- Unless you want to end up right back where you started, there’s no use trying to tackle pigmentation / melasma unless your prepared to keep your face out of the sun. Diligent sun protection is vital.

Other skincare ingredients to look for-

Alpha hydroxy acids, Kojic acid, antioxidants, salicylic acid, licorice, Vitamin E, green tea, mulberry.

Anti-Aging Super Foods

These anti-aging foods benefit your SKIN & so much more:-

1. AVOCADO is superfood packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. They also contain phytochemicals and other essential nutrients to help prevent the negative effects of aging.
2. Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, a compound well known for its anti-aging effects. They are also packed with antioxidants – which fight free radicals throughout our bodies.
3. The essential fatty acids EPA & DHA (omega 3’s) in oily FISH help boost hydration, assists with dermatitis, eczema, acne, inflammation, brain function, depression, anxiety, ADHD, heart health & so much more. SALMON, trout, sardines and mackerel are good examples. Salmon is particularly high in astaxanthin, a super antioxidant and carotenoid known for its unique anti-aging benefits. For plant based sources of omega-3’s, some great options are flaxseeds (try cold pressed flaxseed oil), chia & walnuts. 

4.  Hormonal decline is a common complaint of aging. MACA balances and helps normalise the hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

5.  TURMERIC is well known for its anti-aging properties, and it has been used in cosmetic formulations for centuries. According to extensive research, the curcumin in turmeric has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is proving to help with:-

• Arthritis – due to in anti-inflammatory effect.
• Brain and other neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
• Type 2 diabetes- due to curcumins ability to help stabilise blood sugar levels.
• Cholesterol – as it helps lower our bad LDL cholesterol.
• Viruses – eg the flu
• PMS

6.  Dark chocolate (ideally 70% or higher cacao) is a superfood packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants are in the form of flavanols which help to protect our skin from free radical damage (helping it stay youthful for longer). Dark chocolate also contains:-  Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Potassium, Phosphorus, Zinc & Selenium.

7.   Nuts (& seeds) are packed with protein and usually contain:- Essential fatty acids, Vitamin E, Zinc, B Vitamins, Selenium, fiber, L-arginine etc. Vitamin E protects skin from oxidative (cell) damage and supports healthy skin growth. Selenium (high levels are found in brazil nuts) is a powerful antioxidant, helping to support the immune system. Studies have even shown that a selenium rich diet can help to protect against skin cancer, age spots and sun damage. See previous article regarding the Skin benefits of Zinc, EFA’s etc.  Some good options are;- walnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pecans & pumpkin seeds.

Common Skin Conditions – What to avoid & what can help.

Four Common Skin Conditions

Rosacea
An Inflammatory disorder causing redness and sometimes small pimples on the face. The small surface blood vessels (capillaries) enlarge, giving the appearance of a flushed face.
The exact cause is not 100% known. However avoiding the ten below things can help manage the symptoms.
Specific triggers to avoid include stress, high temperatures (including hot baths & saunas), spicy foods, alcohol, some cosmetics, sun exposure, hot drinks and food.

Acne
Obstruction and inflammation of sebaceous glands which leads to infection.
Common triggers include hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, perimenopause + fluctuations during (certain days) of the menstrual cycle.                                …..See previous adult acne article.

Eczema
Chronic immune-mediated inflammation of the skin involving genetic and environmental factors.
Specific triggers include stress, exposure to allergens (such as dust mite, foods & cosmetics), and dry air.
Linked to asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Psoriasis
A chronic systemic inflammatory disorder. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks normal tissues in the body. Skin cells build up and form scales and itchy dry patches. Triggers can include stress, infections, medications, sunburn, poor gut health.

10 common causes of these skin conditions

1. Nutritional deficiencies
2. Hormonal imbalances
3. Poor gut health including intestinal dyobiosis
4. Stress
5. Thyroid problems
6. Immune system abnormalities
7. Infection (bacterial, parasitic or viral)
8. Medications
9. Poor hygiene
10. Allergies

 

Helpful Supplements

– when diet alone isn’t enough

Zinc
Is an absolutely essential micronutrient for the Skin. It helps with tissue growth & repair, inflammation and infection. Deficiency can present as rough or dry skin, dermatitis, skin lesions, an increase in skin infections and slow wound healing.

Vitamin A
Helps prevent skin infection (eg acne), helps with collagen production and wound healing. Vitamin A also has antioxidant properties , helping neutralize free radicals that cause tissue and cellular damage. Consult with your doctor before taking vitamin A supplements when pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Vitamin C
Helps with tissue repair (including healing damaged skin), collagen synthesis, connective tissue, and the skins elasticity. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to dry skin, increased bruising and impaired wound healing.

Essential fatty acids (Omega-3)
Helps with inflammation and wound healing.
Nourishes the Skin and helps prevent moisture loss. Deficiency contributes to eczema, psoriasis, sun spots, dandruff and also thinning hair. Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna have fewer omega-3s than good quality capsules. Omega-3 supplements include Krill oil, Fish Oil or Sea buckthorn oil capsules.

Other Antioxidants (eg vitamin E, selenium, green tea, coenzyme Q10 etc)

Probiotics
Research has shown that the state of your gut has a great deal to do with the condition of your skin. Where there is gut inflammation, there is usually skin inflammation
See Gut Article

Turmeric

Curcumin is the active part of the turmeric plant. It is anti-inflammatory and can help with a wide variety of skin conditions. Curcumin has even been found to help clear mild psoriasis plaques, and prevent flare ups in some sufferers.

Silica
Is required to produce collagen and is a natural anti-inflammatory. Is good for Skin, hair and nails.

Other skin supplements include – echinacea, burdock, sea buckthorn (a vegetarian source of Omega fatty acids), yellow dock, cleavers etc.

Skin Treatments

See LED Light Therapy

Skincare

Soothe has been named as the favourite regimen by The Sydney Morning Herald & has recently been reviewed in Allure. This regimen uses RFp3 Peptite technology -A breakthrough combination of skin soothing peptides & skin detoxifying peptides working with a protease inhibitor at the skins surface to neutralise triggers & reduce visible signs of redness. If you suffer from sensitive, red or irritated skin …..this may be the product for you! It comes with a R+F 60 day money back guarantee. Please contact me to find out how to save 10% on this product and to receive free shipping. Or why not try the Solution Tool to get a personalised Skin Regime

https://visherwood.myrandf.com/au

Some Supplement Recommendations-

Note- We know Fish oil has many health benefits due to the essential fatty acids EPA & DHA (omega 3’s). However there are fish oils and there are fish oils. SO many of the ones found in our supermarkets are manufactured cheaply and can even be rancid! BioCeuticals fish oil undergoes strict testing to ensure its purity & to make sure it is of the highest quality, using ethically sourced fish free of heavy metals.