Bye Bye Blemishes

For many of you, fall generally means that it’s time for the kids to go back to school. To make sure they are prepared, you may be getting their school supplies and fall wardrobe in order. During this time, they are also paying close attention to their skin, or blemishes rather, so you may find yourself searching for blemish-fighting products. To make sure they go back to school with the confidence they need to look and feel their best, I would like to share with you why the natural approach really is the best approach when helping your kids achieve clear, healthy skin. 

What you see as a pimple has actually taken days or weeks to create. Deep in the pore, for a variety of reasons, an accumulation of dead skin cells mix with sebum to form a plug and that creates a whitehead. If the plug is in contact with the air, it darkens and a blackhead results. The plug continues to grow until the duct bursts. In combination with bacteria that can cause infection, you then have a red inflamed papule or zit.

To start, choose skincare products for your kids that contain gentle yet effective herbs that have been scientifically proven effective on blemish-prone skin. Tea Tree, one of my favorite natural first-aid remedies, contains powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help clear blemishes and prevent breakouts. Willow Bark, the natural source of salicylic acid, is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter blemish-fighting products. It can help remove dead skin, dirt and toxins, and unclog pores. Rosewood acts as both an antiseptic and an astringent and can help balance both dry and oily skin. Lavender, another one of my favorites, contains astringent and antibacterial properties to help fight breakouts. Lastly, Chamomile has strong anti-inflammatory properties making it ideal for helping reduce redness and calm skin. These herbs work very well together in skincare products to help clear and prevent breakouts.

As for their skincare routine, because blemishes can also be the result of too much bacteria, make sure they cleanse skin 2-3 times a day with a gentle anti-bacterial cleanser. Then, have them follow with a moisturizer that is formulated to balance yet hydrate the skin. Breakouts do not occur because of too much moisture from a facial moisturizer, they result from skin that is not balanced. A spot blemish treatment is also good for those that have specific breakout areas. Exfoliating at least once week will also be beneficial because it prevents build-up of older skin cells and stimulates new cell growth.

Since hormones and nutrition can also cause blemishes, helping your kids make healthy lifestyle choices will also make a difference. To help prevent hormonal fluctuations, any type of exercise such as joining a school sports team or participating in outdoor activities are good. If they are easily stressed, maybe take walks together, or practice stretching and breathing exercises. A good night’s sleep, about 7 to 8 hours is also ideal. Because food can trigger the occurrence of blemishes, help your kids eat a balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables and very few processed foods that can be high in sugar and salt. Drinking plenty of water is also very important. If possible, pack a water bottle in their lunch, or make sure they have one with them at all times so they are less likely to give in to sugar-laden drinks.

While blemishes can zap your kid’s confidence this time of year, hopefully this natural approach will help them look and feel good on the inside and out.

Yours in Health,
Dr. Linda Miles, DOM, LAc