I N PROF I LE
teen wellness Adolescence isn’t easy for kids (or their parents!). Thankfully, simple natural remedies can smooth out the transition.
to conventional antimicrobial creams, which teens can become resistant to or which may cause redness or irritation. Look for the skinB5 range which combines vitamin B5 with powerful Australian botanical ingredients to nourish skin, rebalance pH and heal acne, such as Kangaroo Flower, Silky Oil Grass, Kakadu Plum, Quandong and Davidson Plum. For best results, use the topical products in conjunction with vitamin B5 oral supplements to heal acne and support skin health from within - look for ingredients like collagen peptides, probiotics, protein, silica, zinc and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Consider Ayurveda: Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) , turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are herbs that have long been used to cure acne in Ayurveda, India’s traditional system of medicine and healing. Modern research bears this out, with one study showing that using all three both orally and topically significantly improved acne symptoms. Try tea tree: Apply a drop of tea tree essential oil - research shows that it is just as effective in limiting an outbreak of pimples and reducing their severity as a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide solution. Apply aloe: One study
A is for acne Acne is the curse of many teenagers, and takes the form of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads which are triggered by an overproduction of natural sebum (oil), heat, make-up, stress or certain prescription drugs. The hormonal fluctuations caused by puberty, particularly periods and taking contraceptives, increase sebum production, which can worsen an acne outbreak. There are two kinds of acne. The most common form, acne vulgaris, occurs on the face, chest, shoulders or back. Cystic acne occurs as cysts or lumps, which may be sore. Both forms are often hereditary. Acne may be a mild inconvenience - or it can become serious and lead to infection and permanent scarring. What you can do Keep your skin clean , but not too clean, as over-zealous washing can actually make the sebaceous glands produce more oil. Use cool, not hot, water to avoid inflammation. Steer clear of granulated face scrubs - instead, try a cooling gel- or clay-based mask to draw out impurities and soothe skin. Avoid face flannels, as they may harbour bacteria. If your teen uses make- up, choose a water-based formula, not an oil-based one. Never scratch, squeeze or pick at pimples and only touch acne-prone skin areas with clean fingers. Take 5: Topical skincare products which contain vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) are a great alternative
found that up to 90 per cent of skin sores were healed with an application of the gel within five days of use.
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ISSUE 56 • 2019
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