Dr. Angela Agrios, ND
My very talented Naturopathic Doctor
She treats a wide variety of conditions
Office & phone appointments available
Los Angeles, CA (Pacific Palisades)
Acne
Naturopathic Medicine Treatment Interview with Dr. Margaret Schenck, ND
Acne Symptoms Acne is an inflammatory process of the skin. It typically takes place on the face, but may also occur on the chest and/or on the back. It can be a very painful inflammatory process where there are red pustules that appear and it can be debilitating to one’s self esteem.
Acne Medications The conventional treatment for acne includes antibiotics and accutane. Antibiotics are designed to rid the body of the bacteria in the pustules in the skin. Accutane is designed to reduce the inflammation of the skin. The problem with antibiotics is that it will also eliminate all of the good flora in the body, thus decreasing one's immune system. The problem with accutane is that it is highly toxic to the liver and it can cause very severe birth defects.
Acne Causes Acne is caused by a number of imbalances in the body. As a naturopathic doctor, I consider acne to be diabetes of the skin. There is blood sugar disregulation issues, liver congestion, hormonal imbalances and imbalances of the microflora as well as potential food sensitivities.
Natural Medicine Acne Diagnosis When somebody comes to me with acne, I want to find out about their diet. I also want to understand their menstrual history, history of antibiotic use as well as oral contraceptives, and get a good understanding of their digestive health. I will do a blood test to identify food sensitivities, a stool analysis to understand microbial imbalances, a neurotransmitter assessment via urine, as well as doing a saliva test to identify hormonal imbalances.
Natural Medicine Acne Treatment & Detoxification Based on their test results, I will create an individualized therapeutic program. The dietary changes may include an anti-inflammatory diet with a focus on reduced carbohydrates as well as an elimination of refined sugars. I will also have them eliminate any food sensitivities identified. I will also prescribe a detox protocol that will help to support the liver and gastrointestinal health. This detoxification protocol will include herbs, such as milk thistle and dandelion, it will have digestive support, such as probiotics and fiber, and it may include antimicrobial herbs to address the microbial imbalances as well as some colon hydrotherapy to eliminate toxins.
Natural Medicine Acne Supplements In addition, I will use nutrients that are antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc and selenium. Omega-3 fatty acids are also very beneficial for the anti-inflammatory process. I will also balance hormones by using herbs and nutrients. Topically, I will recommend bentonite clay masks, tea tree oil and calendula soap.
Natural Medicine Acne Treatment Success I have a really high success rate. When patients follow my protocol, over ninety percent of them will be acne free in six to twelve months.
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Natural Medicine Acne Diet If somebody would like to reverse their acne, I recommend adopting a natural living lifestyle. This includes eating an organic whole foods diet and taking supplements. These supplements include fish oil, flaxseed oil and probiotics. I also recommend seeing a naturopathic doctor.
