Prescription for clear skin: stop the breakout cycle with foods, supplements, and topical products that address the root causes of acne.(INSIDE & OUT: PERSONAL CARE)

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Sixty million Americans have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the United States. According to the American Dermatologist Association, nearly 20 percent of adults and 85 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 24 have acne.

Acne is caused by one or more factors, including excess oil production, poor exfoliation, genetics, diet, stress, and hormones. Forms of acne range from clogged pores resulting in white- and blackheads to severely infected nodules or cysts. Increased hormone production during puberty or menstruation can cause excess oil production, providing a perfect environment for bacteria to flourish on the skin's surface. Infectious, painful acne is often the combination of trapped dead skin cells, dirt, increased oil production, and bacteria.

Many people trying to control their acne resort to harsh prescription or over-the-counter medications that dry the skin but then cause excess oil production, creating a vicious cycle. Acne can be controlled and even eliminated completely by utilizing a comprehensive, inside-out natural treatment plan.

From the Outside

Because acne affects physical appearance, most people want to deal with it from the outside first. This is possible by following a simple, four-step strategy that includes using the following:

* A nontoxic exfoliating cleanser with antibacterial ingredients