Acne can affect anyone, so treatments, such as detox, are all over the web. In order to properly detox to help acne, you must understand what acne is, what contributes to it, what kind of acne detox can help you, and what you need in order to prepare for and succeed in your detox.
How do you detox your body from acne? There are three main types of detoxes for acne: Colon detox, liver detox, and diet changes and adjustments. It will also include adjustments to your normal skincare routine, your hygiene practices, and the products you use. What exactly is involved will be determined by the detox type you decide on.
Acne is a struggle and can be uncomfortable and painful. There are many treatment options with chemicals and medical professionals, but there are also options that you, yourself, can control without extra chemicals and medicines.
Let’s start by looking at what acne and detox are.
What Are Acne and Detox?
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that chronically causes pimples and spots, primarily on the face, upper body, and back. It typically develops during puberty, which is caused by the sebaceous glands activating.
It can, however, occur at any age. It isn’t dangerous, but it can cause lasting skin blemishes such as scars.
Acne affects approximately every 3 in 4 people in the United States. A majority of those affected are in the age range of 12 and 24. It develops when a pore becomes clogged by skin cells and oil.
Detox is, in simple terms, getting rid of toxins. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you are going to take everything away from your body. It means that you are going to change
what you put into your body, so what comes out can be different, as well.
As with everything else, there are many different views on how detox can help acne. Even more, there are a few popular forms of detox that have shown results. The top three are colon detox, liver detox, and a diet change.
What Are the Risk Factors That Cause Acnes?
While anyone can suffer from acne, certain risk factors make
those chances higher.
- Genetics. If someone in your family has acne, you are more likely to suffer from it,
as well. - Menstruation. Along with the hormone increase, the menstrual cycle makes you more likely to develop acne.
- Anxiety. Anxiety and stress are typically mentioned when talking about health because of
the effect it has on the whole body. Acne is no different. - Climate. If you live in an area that causes you to sweat a lot, acne chances rise.
- Products. The products you use on your skin, such as makeup, can cause your pores to clog
and acne to appear. - Popping Pimples. When you pop other pimples and pick at your acne, it causes it to
spread even more. - Hygiene. If you aren’t taking care of your body, your body won’t take care of you.
Making yourself aware of what can cause acne is the first step in the possible prevention of further spreading.
Different Types of Acne
Acne can come in different shapes and sizes, and they each offer their own kind of trouble and discomfort. There are papules, pustules, cysts, blackheads, whiteheads, and nodules. There are also two categories of acne, inflammatory and noninflammatory.
Inflammatory
Inflammatory acne involves the skin raising and swelling to take place.
- Papules are also referred to as skin lesions. They are small, pink bumps visible on the
skin. When papules start to accumulate pus, it becomes a pustule. - Pustules are larger than a papule and have pus at the top of the bump. These are red at their base and visible on the skin.
- Cysts are painful and filled with pus. They are larger and visible on the skin. They also
are likely to leave behind scars. - Nodules are the largest and most painful. They are embedded deep into the skin, are solid, and are highly visible on the skin.
Noninflammatory
Noninflammatory acne will generally not raise the skin, and swelling is unlikely.
- Blackheads are black, as their name suggests and visible on the skin. They aren’t
typically felt as much as seen. - Whiteheads are small and remain under the skin. They aren’t easily noticed, and they
aren’t generally felt.
Each type of acne will have its own preventative suggestions as well as unique treatment options. If you have any questions about what you are dealing with, seek out a dermatologist and ask them what will work best.
Preventing and Managing Acne
Often, the best way to minimize your acne is not only applying appropriate treatment, but also taking preventative measures and managing outbreaks appropriately is just as important.
While each skin type is different, certain lifestyle changes and practices can apply to most.
- Wash your face with warm water and soap designed for acne. Don’t scrub, though, or you could push the infection deeper and cause more issues.
- Never pop pimples, or it can cause the bacteria to spread and is more likely to create scarring.
- Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
- Avoid makeup all together or make sure you use makeup designed for sensitive skin. Never use oil-based makeup and remove it before bed.
- Clean eyewear and jewelry regularly. Each can cause blockages.
- Consider electric shavers over other options to keep from spreading the acne.
- Wash your hair regularly to keep oils away from your skin.
- Stay out of the sun when you can, as it creates more sebum, and some medications increase sunburn risks. Also, reduce the amount you are in hot and humid areas.
- Avoid and reduce stress because adrenaline can make acne worse.
- Talk to your doctor to find out what is best for you.
Why Detox Helps Reducing Acne?
Detox is removing all the bad and allowing your skin, your body, to work healthier. It allows for the addition of positive products in your life to better help the toxin removal, and it allows you the chance to incorporate a better diet and routine which can also enhance your skin.
Sometimes, during this process, your skin will have more breakouts, though.
Breakouts During Detox
Your skin has been building up toxins, bacteria, and other harmful things which cause acne and other concerns. During detox, you are allowing your body to release these toxins, which is very good.
However, your body had gotten used to having them, working around them, combating them. This means that there is going to be a reaction upon their removal.
Until these impurities are removed, the healthy ingredients can’t properly do their job.
Several things can help this along, such as the different detox routines. Another process to remember is the skincare you are doing during these detoxes, such as exfoliation.
This will allow your body to help remove the toxins, as well as give way for the healthy products into your skin.
It is important to include this step into your routine during detox, as well as afterward, particularly if you are using any skin products.
Colon Detox
It is believed that a colon cleanse can cause skin conditions to worsen. Therefore, instead of cleaning it out, you are training your immune system to react differently to bacteria.
Skin inflammation is believed to not be caused by bacteria. Skin inflammation is believed to be caused by the immune system’s attack on bacteria.
The best way to rid yourself of acne and train your immune system not to cause inflammation due to the bacteria on your skin is to help your body see bacteria as less of a threat.
Ingesting yogurt every day or taking probiotic supplements is helpful for your colon. Your immune system’s reactions will shift, and your skin should clear up.
Liver Detox
Toxins are filtered through the liver, so it goes without saying that a healthier liver should fight against more toxins. How can you help your liver? By removing toxins and limiting what you put into your body in general.
There are 5 main steps to helping your liver help you and your acne troubles.
Toxin Exposure Reduction
Reducing your exposure to toxins will help you even outside of your problems with acne. The first step in a good liver detox is to be aware of what toxins you encounter and how to avoid them.
- Alcohol. This one may seem self-explanatory, but many people don’t realize that alcohol doesn’t simply inebriate you. It also has the potential to damage your liver, and its functionality can suffer.
- Trans fats. These are the worst fats you can eat and hurt your whole body’s health, not just your liver’s.
- BPA. These are hormonal compounds found in plastic containers. Use glass as much as possible, instead.
- Paint fumes. These can severely affect your liver and your brain. Use a mask when around them.
- Cigarette smoke. Not only should you not smoke, but you also need to avoid other smokers to reduce your second-hand exposure.
Get Those Toxins Mobile
Making your bodywork to reduce or remove toxins will push along the detox process. Some key tips to consider involve sleep, exercise, and food consumption.
- Exercise regularly. Toxins are often stored in your fat cells, so the more fat you burn, the more toxins you are flushing out of your body.
Sweat can also remove certain toxins through your pores, so don’t be scared to kick it up a notch if you are able. - Wait to eat until you are hungry. When you give your body the chance to digest and go through its natural waste removal process, you are making it a lot easier on yourself.
Don’t simply eat because you normally would at a certain time. Wait until you feel hungry, just be safe about it and don’t skip meals when you need them.
- Sleep well. Getting enough sleep is key to health in general, but it also helps with the detox process.
Remember that hot and humid environments can cause acne, so stay in a cool, dry, dark environment when you go to sleep.
Help You Liver
Instead of simply pushing yourself and expecting your liver to take on the challenge, realize that it is working just as hard as you are, and may need help and a healthy pace. There are several things you can do to help your liver along, though.
- Eat at least 3 leafy greens every day. Examples of leafy greens are kale, cabbage, and broccoli. These are high in nitrate, which can keep you from a fatty liver.
- Consider using Zinc supplements. This will promote immune health and increase your body’s ability to fight off infections.
- Eat plenty of foods with vitamins A, D, and E, and B12. Don’t consume too much, though. When eaten appropriately, these can help your liver stay strong and effective.
Increase the Release of Toxins
There are several ways to help your body get rid of toxins. Helping the process along means, you aren’t overtaxing your liver and the rest of your body. It is also wise to help along your organs as much as possible, whenever possible, anyways.
- Liquid release. We mentioned sweating benefits earlier. There are many ways you can make yourself sweat, such as exercise, warm baths, a sauna, and even eating foods that cause sweating.
Healthy drinking will also allow you to urinate regularly and help your body rid itself of toxins that way, too. Make sure to rehydrate after sweating.
- Digestive Health. Increasing your digestion correlates with colon detox. The use of probiotic supplements or simply consuming foods that allow for probiotic intake will increase the functionality of your digestive system.
Relaxation and Ease
Be sure to give your liver and the rest of your body time to heal and adjust as you make changes. Take note of what your body needs and when it needs it to ensure that you are doing all you can.
Diet Change
Detox involving diet changes aren’t new. Acne involves your skin, which is your largest organ. Therefore, it makes sense that what you put into your body would have some say about how your skin looks, acts and feels.
There are several dieting suggestions that you should consider if you are looking to change your acne struggles.
Foods to Avoid or Limit | Foods to Include or Increase |
|---|---|
Dairy. Dairy has been linked to a number of acne-related issues. When other treatments don’t work, cut dairy out of your diet, and see if there is any improvement. | Organic. Fresh, organic foods are easier for you to digest and gain nutrients from. They are also less likely to have pesticides places on them, which are also highly toxic. |
Trans-fat. As mentioned above, trans fat is likely the most harmful fat you can consume. Avoid it as best as you can. | Orange vegetables. Carrots and sweet potatoes are especially helpful, as are yellow fruits and vegetables. These have high anti-inflammatory properties. |
Gluten and yeasty foods. Too much yeast has been linked to causes for acne, as well. As your body reacts to the yeast, your immune system goes on overdrive, and your acne will likely get much worse because of it. | Dark, leafy greens. Spinach and kale are excellent options. These are rich in vitamins that are helpful for your skin and the rest of your body. |
Oils. Not just topically, avoid consuming heavier oils. If you must cook with oil, go for the lightest options available such as extra virgin olive oil. | Nuts, peas, beans. Foods like quinoa, pumpkin seeds, lentils, and most nuts. These are high in zinc and help fight off bacteria and illness. |
Alcohol. As mentioned above, alcohol is not very healthy to consume in general. It is especially not healthy for the liver and can contribute to acne outbreaks. | Fatty fish. These give your body healthy oils and are easily digestible, giving you the minerals your body needs for healthy skin, heart health, and other benefits. Fish such as salmon and mackerel are especially beneficial. |
Sugary foods and drinks. It’s not news that sugary foods and drinks are unhealthy in excess. However, consuming these have also been linked to increased acne problem. Consider alternative when making sweet choices. | Green tea and blueberries. These allow for extra detox, as they are natural antioxidants and increase your absorption of minerals and vitamins. |
Detox Water
dIf you don’t have time for these changes, consider drinking detox water, if nothing else. Some individuals may not have the time, money, or motivation to make such big changes to their lives, habits, or diets. Detox water can help with this, though only mildly.
The main ingredients in your detox water should include:
- Citrus fruits such as lemons and grapefruits are helpful because they help for collagen, due to their high volumes of Vitamin C. Not only that, but they are also natural antioxidants.
- Watermelon is a powerful antioxidant and helps with hydration.
- Strawberries have tons of ellagic acid, a lot of folates, and some vitamin C. These help with antioxidation as well as UV damage.
- Apples have malic acid, which helps to renew skin cells and softens skin. Apples also help improve overall immune health.
- Aloe Vera is helpful for skin topically but can also help the skin when consumed.
- Cucumbers are incredible for hydration as well as for their antioxidant properties.
- Mint contributes to digestive health, is an antioxidant, and helps inflammation. It can also assist with mild pain.
- Apple cider vinegar helps balance your gut and promote healthy enzymes.
What Else Can Help Getting Rid of Acnes?
Along with the detox methods, it’s reasonable to apply some skincare products or prescriptions to speed up the healing process.
Treatments vary for each person, so be sure about what you need before using products or changing too much.
Over-The-Counter Solutions
Over-the-counter solutions usually include gels, lotions, soaps, pads, and creams. They can be found at most drug stores and don’t require a prescription.
Products that contain certain ingredients have been proven to work better than others.
Active Ingredients
What makes products effective is their active ingredients.
Certain ingredients will help with specific problems, and knowing what you need
is key to treatment.
- Sulfur helps dry your skin to reduce oil accumulation. It is gentler on your skin compared to benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.
- Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria, slows sebum production, dries the skin, and accelerates skin replacement.
- Salicylic acid breaks down blackheads and whiteheads as well as reduces swelling and inflammation.
- Resorcinol also breaks down blackheads and whiteheads.
- Retin-A unblocks pores through cell turnover.
- Azelaic acid strengthens the cells around follicles and stops sebum eruptions. It also reduces bacteria growth and is often used for rosacea.
Prescription Treatments for Acne
For more severe acne, it is often needed for a specialist or
dermatologist to prescribe a treatment. These can be oral, topical, or even
injected treatments.
- Topical antimicrobials unclog pores and prevent the development of whiteheads and blackheads.
- Oral contraceptives, also known as birth control, help control acne.
- Oral antibiotics reduce inflammation and fight the bacteria, causing acne.
- Corticosteroid injections speed up healing, reduce the swelling and scarring, and are injected into the cysts.
The Takeaway
Acne can affect anyone of any age, and it can be painful, embarrassing, and cause great discomfort. While there are many medical options available, as well as many products easily bought, there may be detox solutions that work as well or better without added chemicals or medical bills.
When you are considering the many solutions available, keep in mind the triggers for acne as well as the prevention and management solutions.
Don’t forget to talk to your dermatologist or specialist either way, because they can help you figure out your exact needs. You should also consider being checked out before doing anything that highly affects your liver or colon.
When considering prolonged supplement use, make sure to be aware of any side effects it may cause. It is also important to make sure you are aware of any food or beverages that may have adverse reactions to the supplements.