Dealing with acne can be a challenging and often frustrating journey. The search for effective treatment options can lead individuals down two distinct paths: the conventional route and the functional/holistic approach. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each, shedding light on the conventional methods and introducing a unique perspective offered by VIVA’s root cause approach.
Conventional Acne Treatment
- Antibiotics
- Pros: Initial improvement by targeting inflammatory bacteria.
- Cons: Wipes out both beneficial and harmful gut bacteria, making the body more susceptible to future health issues.
- Isotretinoin (formerly Accutane)
- Pros: Effectively decreases sebum production.
- Cons: Causes severe skin dryness and dryness of mucous membranes, does not address the root cause, and may lead to acne recurrence. Some users report side effects of anxiety and depression.
- Topical Salicylic Acid Products
- Pros: Useful for mild acne cases by reducing oil production.
- Cons: Insufficient for severe or cystic acne, drying and irritating to the skin, may cause redness and chapped skin.
VIVA’s Root Cause Approach
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- Focus: Emphasis on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in phytonutrients and fiber.
- Rationale: Acne is often linked to Western lifestyle and diet, and addressing what we eat is fundamental to healing.
- Targeted Testing
- Components: Evaluation of gut health, detox systems, and hormonal balance.
- Rationale: Identifying the root cause is essential; acne may have a gut, hormonal, or toxin-driven component.
- Herbal Antimicrobials
- Approach: Herbal antimicrobials gently and effectively eliminate bad bacteria and pathogens.
- Advantages: Gentler with fewer side effects, harnesses anti-inflammatory benefits from plant-based sources.
- Microbiome Replenishment
- Focus: Rebuilding the microbiome after treatment.
- Methods: Use of probiotics, polyphenol blends, soothing herbs, fiber, and prebiotics to restore and seal the gut lining.
- Topical Treatments
- Regimen: Extremely gentle topical regimens with minimal ingredients like lavender hydrosol and Castile soap.
- Advantages: Quick results without overly drying the skin, incorporation of anti-inflammatory products like niacinamide.
Choosing the right approach for acne treatment is a personal decision that should align with individual preferences and health philosophies. While conventional methods may provide temporary relief, VIVA’s root cause approach offers a comprehensive and holistic solution that addresses the underlying issues contributing to acne. From dietary changes and targeted testing to herbal antimicrobials and microbiome replenishment, VIVA’s approach is designed to treat acne from the inside out, promoting long-term skin health and overall well-being at our Milwaukee area clinic.