Beyond the Surface: A Dual Approach to Acne with Traditional and Functional Medicine

^{What is Acne}

^{Acne is a chronic skin condition that happens when hair follicles (pores) become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. It is one of the most common skin disorders, affecting people of all ages but especially teenagers and young adults.}

^{How Acne Develops (Pathophysiology)}

1. ^{Excess sebum production
   Oil glands make too much sebum, which mixes with dead skin cells.}
2. ^{Clogged pores
   The excess oil and dead skin cells block hair follicles, forming comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).}
3. ^{Bacterial overgrowth
   Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) bacteria thrive in clogged pores, leading to inflammation.}
4. ^{Inflammation
   The immune response to clogged pores and bacteria causes redness, swelling, and painful pimples.}

^{Types of Acne Lesions}

• ^{Comedones (non-inflammatory): whiteheads (closed comedones) and blackheads (open comedones)}
• ^{Inflammatory acne: papules (red bumps) and pustules (pimples with pus)}
• ^{Severe acne: nodules (large, hard, painful lumps deep under the skin) and cysts (large, pus-filled lesions that may cause scarring)}

^{Common Causes and Triggers}

• ^{Hormonal changes such as puberty, menstrual cycles, or PCOS}
• ^{Genetics and family history}
• ^{Diet such as high glycemic foods or dairy in some people}
• ^{Stress which increases hormones that worsen oil production}
• ^{Certain medications such as steroids, lithium, or some birth controls}
• ^{Skincare or hair products that clog pores (comedogenic)}

^{Why It Matters}

^{Acne is not just a cosmetic concern. It can cause scarring, pigmentation changes, and significant emotional distress if untreated. Fortunately, multiple treatment options exist. Academy of Dermatology notes that acne is highly prevalent, affecting up to 85% of adolescents, but it can persist into adulthood and significantly impact quality of life, with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and social impairment.}

^{The good news…. There are lots of options to treat!}

^{Traditional Medicine Approaches:}

^{Functional Medicine Approaches:}

1. ^{Diet and Nutrition
   Reduce high-glycemic foods such as sugar and processed carbs that spike insulin and worsen acne. Limit dairy if sensitive, since hormones in dairy can trigger breakouts, anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3s from fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, along with green vegetables and antioxidant-rich berries.}
2. ^{Gut Health Support
   Use probiotics and prebiotics to balance the microbiome. Address conditions like leaky gut or dysbiosis that may increase systemic inflammation.}
3. ^{Hormonal Balance
   Assess for PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, or adrenal imbalances. Support with lifestyle changes, stress management, and sometimes supplements or bioidentical hormones if indicated.}
4. ^{Supplements and Nutrients
   Zinc, vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce acne severity. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and DIM can be considered in hormonally driven acne.}
5. ^{Lifestyle Factors
   Stress reduction through yoga, meditation, or breathwork. Adequate sleep for skin healing and hormonal balance.}
   

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^{Esthetic Treatments:}

1. ^{Medical-Grade Facials and Chemical Peels
   Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or Jessner’s peels help exfoliate, clear pores, and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.}
2. ^{Microneedling/Morpheus 8 with PRP or Exosomes
   Stimulates collagen, reduces acne scarring, and promotes skin repair.}
3. ^{Laser and Light Therapies
   Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) can reduce redness and pigmentation after breakouts.}
4. ^{Hydrafacial or Aquafacial Treatments
   Deep cleanse, exfoliation, and infusion of serums tailored for acne-prone skin.}
5. ^{Topical Compounded Treatments
   Customized creams with ingredients like tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, or antibiotics.}
6. ^{Medical-Grade Skincare Regimens
   Consistent use of non-comedogenic cleansers, moisturizers, and SPF. Prescription-strength topicals monitored by a provider.}
7. Neuromodulators
   • Improve acne by reducing oil (sebum) production and calming inflammation through targeted relaxation of overactive facial muscles that contribute to clogged pores and breakouts.

^{At Nervana Medical in Sandy, Utah, we believe acne deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. By combining functional medicine to address internal imbalances with advanced med spa treatments that restore skin health on the surface, we help our patients achieve clearer, healthier, and more confident skin. Whether you are struggling with breakouts, scarring, or stubborn acne that has not responded to other treatments, our team creates personalized plans designed for lasting results. Schedule your consultation today and discover how our comprehensive acne care can help you finally take control of your skin.}