Dr. Perricone Q&A – Adult Acne
Q: I’m a 27-year-old female who has suffered from adult acne for more than two years. Since its onset, I have been seeing a dermatologist who prescribed antibiotics to be taken daily, a day cream, and a gel to be applied at night time. When I took the antibiotics, the acne appeared to be under control. However, when I tried to discontinue the antibiotics, the acne returned with a vengeance in about six weeks. In fact, it was worse than it had been prior to taking the antibiotics. Now, two months after that big eruption of acne, the marks are still vivid. I don’t want to stay on antibiotics for the rest of my life.
A: Because acne is a systemic inflammatory disease your first and best line of defense is to alter your diet. In addition to eating foods that are rich in antioxidants (Nature’s natural anti-inflammatories), you must avoid pro-inflammatory foods. Foods that are starchy – for example, bread, potatoes, chips, sweets, etc. – cause inflammation at a cellular level that leads to a clogged pore, the first step toward an acne lesion. Therefore, what you eat is a direct cause of your breakouts, and you need to stop the cycle. Start a supplement regimen that includes antioxidants (Alpha Lipoic Acid, DMAE, vitamin C ester and vitamin E), a good multivitamin with zinc, the B vitamins, and the essential fatty acids discussed in my books. Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser, and tone with pads containing DMAE. I have formulated an anti-acne regimen that include anti-inflammatory alpha lipoic acid – I recommend using this after gently cleansing and toning. Use only oil-free makeup. And remember, if your pores are not clogged you will not develop a secondary infection, i.e., acne.
