Acne: A Naturopathic Approach to Clearer Skin
Whether you’re a teen or an adult, acne can be frustrating and persistent. Breakouts can develop at any stage of life—or return after years of clear skin—including during adulthood and perimenopause. If acne continues despite trying different skincare products and treatments, it may be helpful to look beyond skincare alone and consider other factors that may be contributing to breakouts.
A naturopathic approach considers the whole picture, including hormones, digestion, nutrition, metabolic health, medications, and lifestyle factors that may be relevant to your individual symptoms.
5 Things I Consider When Evaluating Acne
1. Hormonal Patterns
Hormones can be one factor in acne, although not every case is caused by a hormonal imbalance.
The timing and location of breakouts can provide useful information. Acne around the chin or jawline, changes related to the menstrual cycle, irregular periods, PCOS symptoms, or new acne during perimenopause may warrant a closer look at hormonal patterns.
2. Digestion and Gut Health
Digestive symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or other bowel changes may also be considered.
There is ongoing interest in the connection between digestive and skin health, but not everyone with acne has a gut disorder or needs extensive testing. Your symptoms and health history help determine whether digestive health should be part of your evaluation.
3. Blood Sugar and Metabolic Health
Metabolic factors may be relevant for some people with acne, particularly when breakouts occur alongside PCOS features, blood-sugar concerns, cravings, or changes in weight.
These factors can be evaluated alongside your acne history and other symptoms to help develop a personalized treatment plan.
4. Nutrition
Diet and nutritional status can be reviewed as part of an individualized acne evaluation. Rather than recommending a highly restrictive acne diet or a long list of supplements, the goal is to understand your current nutrition and determine whether specific changes may be helpful for you.
5. Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be incorporated as an adjunct to naturopathic care. It is not a cure for acne, but it may be one component of a broader treatment plan based on your individual health concerns.
What Does a Naturopathic Acne Visit Look Like?
An acne visit may include a review of:
Your acne history and breakout patterns
Menstrual cycles and hormonal symptoms
Perimenopausal changes
Digestive symptoms
Diet and nutrition
Current medications and supplements
Skincare products and routine
Previous or potential laboratory testing
Based on your history and findings, an individualized treatment plan can then be developed. This may include nutrition and lifestyle recommendations, naturopathic care, laboratory evaluation, or coordination with other healthcare providers.
Acupuncture can also be incorporated into your care when it fits your treatment plan.
Naturopathic Acne Treatment in Bellevue, WA
Persistent acne can be frustrating, especially when it develops later in life or keeps returning despite changes to your skincare routine.
A visit with a naturopathic doctor can provide a more comprehensive look at factors that may be contributing to your individual acne pattern. People of all ages with acne and other skin concerns are welcome.
Struggling With Persistent or Hormonal Acne?
If your acne continues to return despite changes in skincare, a broader evaluation may be helpful. Dr. Barnett offers naturopathic medicine and acupuncture for acne and other skin concerns. To schedule a consultation, contact the office at 425-539-0800 or email staff@drclara.com. Her offices are conveniently located in Bellevue and Seattle, with appointments also available via telemedicine. Most insurance plans are accepted.