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How I Healed My Chronic Acne Naturally

January 9, 2021

Hi guys! Ok so, let’s just dive right in. My skin story. I feel like this post has been a long time coming! I’m honestly super nervous to be this vulnerable with you but as cheesy as it may sound, I know deep down that this will help so many people who may be in the same boat I was – struggling with…dun dun dun…ACNE.

Yes, I have talked about this here and there on Instagram or the blog and a lot with my one on one clients, but today I’m giving you my whole story of how I healed myself from a lifelong chronic struggle with acne. I’m turning 30 this fall and I’m forever going to work to manifest no more breakouts. Mark my words! But, let’s start with my background and the laundry list of things I’ve tried. I’m sure you can relate to some of these, if not ALL.

 

How I Healed My Chronic Acne Naturally

Before pictures are from a few bad flare ups in the last 2 years. After pictures are of my skin in the last 3 months. No filters or makeup. I tried to dig up some old pictures from when I was going through a flare up in high school or college but I tended to hide it really well. 

How I Healed My Chronic Acne Naturally

 

MY SKIN BACKGROUND

I started getting breakouts specifically of whiteheads and inflammatory acne when I was about 13 and a freshman in highschool. I know, TYPICAL. To be clear, I did not suffer from a lot of cystic acne, more so blemishes all over my T-zone. The breakouts would come and go every few months throughout the years. Sometimes really bad and sometimes not that bad, and I never quite had clear skin.

I kept thinking I would outgrow it. Over the course of the next 16 years I visited countless dermatologists, doctors, estheticians, naturopaths, and more. You name it, I’ve probably tried it- sulfur scrubs, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, ProActiv, Retinol, Doxycycline, antibiotics, spironolactone, Accutane, chemical peels, extraction facials, microdermabrasion, multiple diets, detoxes, and more. And what’s funny is I actually have very sensitive, fair skin. Yet for YEARS I stripped it and scrubbed it dry.

MY SKINCARE HOLY GRAIL

No matter what I did I couldn’t seem to get my acne flare ups under control. That is, until I combined these three things: 1) a whole foods, gluten free and plant-based diet, 2) a natural skincare regimen, and 3) visualization meditations. I worked to improve gut and hormonal imbalances and manage stress while removing prescription drugs from the dermatologist and switching to a clean skincare routine without any sort of topical drying agents like retinol, benzoyl, salicylic acid, etc.

GOING PLANT-BASED

When I first went plant-based back in 2016, I immediately noticed a shift not only in the health of my skin but how I felt everyday in my whole body. I lost weight, had more energy, barely got sick EVER after suffering from chronic sinusitis (another story for another time), and overall felt like I had been woken up after being asleep at the wheel my whole life. There was this new found energy and feeling of purpose. I had no idea I could feel this good everyday and that I had been living my life everyday just feeling ok.

Thanks to my new diet, over the next few years my skin was better than it had been since I was 13. I didn’t have to take any medications from the dermatologist and I could handle any flare ups with over the counter cleansers containing just some sort of low dose of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. 

WHY IT’S OK TO TAKE A PRESCRIPTION DRUG

Then, out of nowhere I got a really bad flare up when we moved to California a few years ago. I finally got so fed up that I went to a few dermatologists for the first time in over 3 years. When I finally landed on one, they insisted a low dose of spironolactone in combination with  a sulfur based cleanser would do the trick. Ugh.

I really DID NOT WANT TO TAKE the spironolactone. Plus, I had already taken this drug before in the past during a bad flare up. I really did not want to take anything internally because when my Mom got diagnosed with stage 4 cancer back in 2011 (almost 10 years ago at this point!), I went full force on switching to a nontoxic lifestyle and swore I would avoid prescription drugs at all costs. No more birth control or z-packs for me. I was going au naturale. 

But I think this is an important piece of my skin story that I wanted to share- hear me when I say this because it may surprise you. It’s OK to turn to a prescription drug sometimes to help your symptoms. *CAVEAT* But the long term solution to your problem needs to also incorporate nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. 

HOW MY SKIN AFFECTED ME EMOTIONALLY

My skin has affected my self confidence so bad that I have experienced what I believe to be mild depression and major self esteem issues. If getting a prescription from the dermatologist is going to help clear your skin while you work on making healthy lifestyle changes, I 100% SUPPORT THAT. 

On top of this, I felt some shame in turning to a prescription drug again for my skin and I know now I should not have felt this guilt. For myself and my mental health, I had to do it. I don’t want to waste one more day hiding in my house, not letting my husband hang out with me, or not going to dinner with my friends solely because I am embarrassed of my appearance.

And if you’re out there right now, in that place, please know I am here for you and I know what you’re going through. Trust me when I say it WILL get better and you WILL come out the other side. 

Phew, okay, serious moment over LOLZ. But I had to go there if I’m going to tell this story with complete honesty! Also ugh please do not at all feel sympathy for me when reading this- it’s so not what I want. I’m only doing this to help other women and get my saga off my chest. I am all good peeps! Ok, let’s move on, shall we? 😉

PLANT-BASED AND GLUTEN-FREE

After visiting the dermatologists, I started working with a new functional medicine doctor at Parsley Health. Through a blood draw, I learned I tested high for sensitivity to gluten. Up to this point I had been 100% plant based but was still eating mostly sprouted, organic gluten. I then slowly transitioned gluten out of my diet and replaced any gluten I was having with gluten-free options- like brown rice breads or almond flour tortillas.

This seemed to improve my overall health and the health of my skin even MORE. I also worked with Parsley to follow a gut healing and hormone balancing protocol through certain supplements. 

However, I recently have fully cleared my skin and have remained clear the past almost 6 months by incorporating these additional two things with my plant-based gluten-free diet. 1) Using only a natural skincare line for topical product application and 2) daily visualization meditation (aka manifestation). I know, soooo woo woo- but hear me out because this shit fucking WORKS. And I am living proof. There’s also so much science behind this I had no idea! Your body listens to your thoughts, and what you tell your brain, for real.

NATURAL AND NON-TOXIC SKINCARE

For the first time EVER I gave up my topical anti-acne solutions. I have been a long time proponent of toxin free living and it’s what my business is based around in addition to a more plant-based diet. But skincare was always the one thing I couldn’t find a suitable super nontoxic option for. 

I had tried DIY solutions like castor oil and jojoba cleansing along with brands like True Botanicals, Doterra HD Clear, and many others- nothing worked for me. That is, until I found Averr Aglow. This is not a plug but I had to shout them out because they have been a huge part of my clear skin success story. Now, this may not work for you and maybe another clean skincare brand works better- great. You do you. I think the important thing is to give your skin a break from the traditional chemical treatments prescribed for acne. Especially because of my 15+ years of use! (PS I feature this brand and more in my Clean Beauty Guide.)

After about 2 full weeks in on my new skincare regimen, I was APPALLED my breakouts had not worsened and were actually almost completely GONE. I felt like I was looking at my 12 year old self in the mirror. I was enthusiastic about my newfound secret weapon.

VISUALIZATION MEDITATIONS AND MANIFESTATION

It’s very important to note that in addition to using Averr Aglow products I started doing daily (and sometimes twice daily) clear skin meditations. I have meditated for a few years now but I never heard of being guided to envision your face without any blemishes. Needless to say, I was hooked. Plus, I was shocked at how it actually started working. And I credit this technique the most to keeping my skin the clearest it has been since I was a pre-teen over these past 6 months. I originally heard Melissa Wood Health talk about how she used meditation to heal her acne. Unfortunately, I had a really hard time actually finding a meditation. I eventually came across this one on YouTube. The guys voice is really soothing. I also used Mimi Method meditations. Eventually, I think I will create my own!

SO TO SUM IT ALL UP

My story is a perfect example of why we HAVE to look at the body and the person as a whole- both physical and emotional health is important and we have to find balance with BOTH. Just as I learned back when I was getting certified to become a holistic health coach- you can eat all the kale in the world and a 100% perfectly “clean” diet but if you are not addressing the health of other areas of your life you will never achieve optimal well-being. 

And this is how I work with my clients too. I always say- food is the foundation. Once we get that under control, we have to dive in and explore all these other areas of your life that make up YOU. How is the health of your daily work and career? What are your relationships like? Are you going to a job everyday that sucks your soul out of your body? Are you in a toxic relationship? Then we have to dig to get to the root cause of some of the physical symptoms you may be experiencing. It’s not one size fits all and I hope my story can inspire and motivate you to use this new year to dig deep and get CLEAR.

 

Are you struggling with your skin? I would love to know in the comments below. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading!

Until next time,

XO – Dani

 

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daniontheloose

Holistic Health Coach
6 FOODS TO KEEP HANDY IN THE FRIDGE FOR CLEAR SKIN 6 FOODS TO KEEP HANDY IN THE FRIDGE FOR CLEAR SKIN:

BERRIES: (Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, Blackberries): Eat your water! Yes, eat! Cellular hydrating fruits & veggies high in water content like berries (that are also low in natural sugars) are beauty boosting for the skin and moisturize from the inside out. 

BROCCOLI: Cruciferous veggies that contain sulfur like broccoli are super detoxifying for the body and when the body is detoxified, it has less inflammation and stays clear. 

COCONUT YOGURT: Gut boosting foods rich in probiotics like coconut yogurt are a great plant-based snack or breakfast option that feed the good bacteria bugs for a healthy gut which is the control center to literally everythinggg else in the body- nervous system, hormones, sleep, etc etc etc. It controls it all. Gut health absolutely has to be fixed to heal skin for good.

KALE: Love love love me some kale. Dark leafy greens like kale that contain vitamin A & are superfoods for clearing skin bc of being anti-inflammatory. It also promotes cell turnover, therefore reduces clogged pores!

AVOCADO: for a beauty boosting healthy fat that fights chronic inflammation! Most often skin issues are a direct reflection of internal inflammation in the body. Eat avocado to reduce skin redness and more.

GINGER ROOT: Immunity supporting & skin inflammation fighting. I love to make homemade ginger root tea with this. Let me know if you want to see the process and I’ll put it on my insta stories for ya!

And there you have. Want more tips for healing skin from the inside out? 

DM ME and let me know what you need! Xo, dani
My approach to WEEKEND FREEDOM that I teach my cli My approach to WEEKEND FREEDOM that I teach my clients...

Everyone is always looking for BALANCE, 80/20 lifestyle, whatever the F you want to call it. One of the greatest things about a whole foods plant-based diet is that it is SUSTAINABLE and effing DELICIOUS. When it comes to eating a plant-rich diet, I’m all about the meal prep during the week and then freedom to play on the weekend…

So many of us want a meal plan to follow during the week so that we don’t have to think twice about what’s for dinner after the end of a long Monday. But when it comes to Friday - Sunday, I say HAVE FUN. 

Joy is a nutrient too & if you need that glass of red wine or those french fries to feel like you are living your best life, go for it gurl. It’s all MINDSET.

HERE IS MY APPROACH TO WEEKEND FREEDOM 101:

It’s simple. Live your life & indulge on occasion while also respecting your body to help you get where you are going, &, to feel your best for all the exciting stuff to come the next day & in the future. Does it totally slow me down the next day? Does it make me feel super crappy? Does it cause disease? 

Then I don’t want it in my life. 

Get it out of here & I don’t miss it AT ALL. I get to say byeee to the anxiety & stress it would’ve caused me if I did consume it in the first place. HOWEVER, if I decide to indulge, I don’t JUDGE. That also causes stress which hurts you just as much in the long run.

Once I realized I have so much sh*t I wanted to accomplish, whether that’s getting in a workout the next day or preventing cancer when I’m older, I changed every decision when it came to my health. i shifted my mindset from “lack of” something to “gaining” something better instead. 

Do I still get tipsy on organic vodka martinis every once in a while? Guilty as charged. But am I motivated to detox the next day? DUH. (shoutout to coffee enemas lolz!)

Do I enjoy those organic salt & vinegar Kettle chips occasionally on a Saturday afternoon? TOTALLY. They are like crack! But do I balance it out w/ eating nutrient dense, plant-based dinner? 100%.

Do what makes u feel good while also working toward a better version of yourself. 

TAG A FRIEND who needs to see this!🌱🤍
IF YOU’RE NEW TO MY PAGE…. First off, Holy sh IF YOU’RE NEW TO MY PAGE….

First off, Holy sh*t- thank you. I’m so glad you found me and I’d love to know how you got here! So that you feel you know me a bit better here’s some fun tidbits.

🤍I am a holistic health coach super into helping busy b*itches (like myself) avoid burnout and get their body back into balance through a nutrient dense, plant-based diet and switching over to a less toxic lifestyle. I promise it can be cool you guys. I could talk about this stuff all day because I’m so in awe of how these tools changed my own life.

🤍My Mom was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2011 and has treated the disease 100% holistically to this day using alternative medicine, plant-based diet, and so much more.

🤍Thanks to the power of plants and holistic healing I’ve been able to get my lifelong struggle with acne under control, along with sinusitis, gut imbalances, and an array of other symptoms. Food truly is medicine.🌱

🤍I am a Texan born & raised but have spent time living on both the East and West Coasts. Love LA & NY and both hold special places in my heart.

🤍I met my husband wasted at a frat party freshman year of college (lol oops) and we have been together ever since. We live in Austin, TX now with our maltese who i like to call #PupOnTheLoose

🤍I turn 30 this year. Yikes… botox isn’t really on brand for me but might have to consider it now…

🤍In addition to health coaching, I have worked for @dearmediastudio for the past few years & truly have the absolute best boss (shoutout @michaelbosstick ) and team. I only mention this bc I think it’s important to share that when I was in health coaching school, they taught us how if other areas of your life, like your career, are causing you to feel out of balance with who you are, it can hold you back from becoming your healthiest, most thriving self. I finally understood that when I started working for a company that aligns with my values and is something I truly enjoy everyday.

Ok I think that’s enough about me. Now tell me about YOU. 

How did you find my page? 
XO, dani
Clean Beauty & Non-toxic Products w/ @switch.natur Clean Beauty & Non-toxic Products w/ @switch.natural. I had so much fun chatting with my friend Andrea at @switch.natural ! We cover: 

-acne and plant-based eating
-clean beauty at Target
-tips for reading the back of ingredient labels
-nontoxic household care for when you’re pregnant or a new mom
-retinol
-chemical peels
And so much more!

If you’re watching this replay comment below and let us know! Xo, Dani🤍🌱💄
Tune in today, Tuesday 4/6 at 1pm CT for an Instag Tune in today, Tuesday 4/6 at 1pm CT for an Instagram LIVE chat with my friend @switch.natural ! We will talk all things clean beauty, non-toxic products, skin health, plant-rich diet, and more! 🌱 💄 

Leave any questions for us below so we can be sure to answer them!!! Xo, Dani
QUICK HIT LIST OF ACNE SAFE NON-TOXIC MAKE-UP RECO QUICK HIT LIST OF ACNE SAFE NON-TOXIC MAKE-UP RECOMMENDATIONS:

Foundation: 
-Fitglow Vita Active Foundation (lighter/BB cream type coverage)
-Crunchi (medium, matte coverage)
-Lawless Woke Up Like This Flawless foundation (full coverage)
-Ilia (light serum for daily wear)

Powder/concealer: 
-Vapour Perfecting Powder
-100% Pure Bamboo Powder
-Priia Loose Mineral Powder foundation (this one is good for powder concealer or all over face application)

Bronzer: 100% Pure Cocoa Pigmented bronzer

Blush & Highlighter: 100% Pure Naked Palette

These are just a few staples I keep in my own makeup bag and I know I can trust to recommend to acne prone clients. 

Do you trust clean beauty when you have broken out skin? 

Xo, dani
Oh Hayyy I’m offering 2 more FREE health coachin Oh Hayyy I’m offering 2 more FREE health coaching calls this week! Get the chance to chat 1-1 with me & get custom support. 

I would love to speak with women experiencing acne/breakouts or other SKIN issues! 

Shoot me a DM to apply! 

PS- please please please SHARE THIS POST with a girlfriend!!! 

Xo, Dani 🤍
One of the biggest “A-HA!” moments for me when One of the biggest “A-HA!” moments for me when it came to overall health was that skin issues are a symptom of something going on internally! Healing starts from within with food as medicine.

Here are 5 WHOLE FOOD PLANT-BASED PANTRY STAPLES FOR CLEAR SKIN:

FLAXSEED: Contains fiber which helps the body with digestion, elimination, and keeping the gut balanced! (which we talked about in my recent IGTV) Plus these little babies have omega 3s that fight inflammation. Chronic acne or any skin irritation is a direct correlation to inflammation in the body.

MATCHA OR GREEN TEA: Helps keep stress hormones in check thanks to 2 little hawties called L-Theanine and ECGC- antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties! This is why green tea is a common ingredient in skincare for reducing redness, etc.

AVOCADO OIL: Toss the processed vegetable oils away and stock up on avocado oil that is first cold-pressed, organic, and unrefined. It’s anti-inflammatory, a healthy fat, and safe for cooking at high heat temps.

BEANS: Protein + fiber powerhouses. Keeps blood sugar balanced since it is a low-glycemic food group and aids in digestion!

GLUTEN FREE OATS: Giving the body a major break from common inflammatory foods that wreak havoc on the gut (like gluten) are key for skin success. Oats are a pantry staple that again, aid in digestion and balance blood sugar. When the gut is balanced, the whole body is balanced!

Keep a lookout next week for a post on refrigerated foods to eat for clear skin! 
If you found this post helpful, PLEASE TAG A FRIEND so we can pass the message along! 
xo, dani
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