As a mother, watching teens and young adults struggle with acne can be heartbreaking. You want to help them feel confident in their skin, but with so much conflicting information out there, it’s hard to know what really works. At Face Five Acne Clinic, we believe in natural, holistic solutions that address the root cause of acne, because every teen’s skin is unique, and so is their acne.
Understanding the Root Cause of Acne
Most acne treatments only focus on surface-level symptoms, cleansing, drying out the skin, or suppressing oil production. While these methods may provide short-term relief, they don’t address the real issue: what’s happening inside your body that is triggering the breakouts?
Acne is a sign of an internal imbalance. Here are some of the most common root causes:
- Hormonal Imbalances – Puberty causes natural hormone fluctuations, but diet and lifestyle play a huge role in managing these changes.
- Food Sensitivities & Diet – Certain foods, like dairy, sugar, and highly processed snacks, can fuel inflammation and trigger breakouts.
- Gut Health Issues – A compromised gut microbiome can lead to toxins being released into the body, contributing to acne.
- Nutrient Deficiencies – Lack of essential vitamins and minerals, like zinc, omega-3s, and vitamin A, can impact skin health. Check out our online store for supplements!
- Toxin Overload – Everyday exposures to chemicals in skincare products, makeup, and the environment can disrupt the body’s ability to detox properly. Want to know what products are disrupting your body? Check out our Pore-Clogging Ingredient Checker!
How to Help Your Teen Achieve Clear Skin Naturally
The good news? Acne doesn’t have to be a lifelong battle. By making simple, targeted changes, you can clear skin without resorting to harsh medications that often come with unwanted side effects.
1. Optimize Your Diet for Clear Skin
What you eat directly impacts your skin health. Ensure to eat more of the following acne-fighting foods:
- Leafy greens (kale, spinach) – Detoxifies the body
- Omega-3 rich foods (salmon, chia seeds, walnuts) – Reduces inflammation
- Zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils) – Speeds up healing
- Probiotic foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, miso) – Supports gut health
At the same time, reducing or eliminating dairy, sugar, processed foods, and fast food can make a significant difference in acne severity.
2. Heal the Gut for Healthy Skin
Since the gut and skin are closely connected, a healthy digestive system is key to clear skin.
- Encourage plenty of fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) to promote healthy digestion.
- Add a probiotic supplement to help balance gut bacteria.
- Make sure they drink enough water to flush out toxins.
3. Choose the Right Skincare Routine
Many acne products on the market contain harsh chemicals that strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to increased oil production and irritation. Instead, look for gentle, non-toxic, and non-comedogenic skincare options designed specifically for acne-prone skin.
At Face Five Skincare, we’ve developed products that are free of harmful chemicals and formulated to work with the skin’s natural healing process. Check out our online store to see what works for your skin.
4. Identify Hormonal Triggers & Support Balance
For teens, hormones play a major role in acne. Support their hormonal balance by:
- Ensuring regular sleep (7-9 hours per night) to regulate hormones
- Reducing exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics, skincare, and household products
- Encouraging stress management through activities like exercise, meditation, or journaling
5. Avoid Toxins in Everyday Products
Many of us unknowingly expose our skin to acne-triggering chemicals. Check ingredient labels for parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and pore-clogging oils in their makeup, skincare, and hair products. Switching to clean, non-toxic beauty and personal care items can significantly improve acne. Want to know which products are right for you? Check out our Pinterest Page for all acne-safe products!
Why Medication Isn’t Always the Best Solution
Many conventional acne treatments, like antibiotics, birth control pills, and Accutane, come with serious side effects. While they might offer temporary relief, they often fail to address the underlying causes of acne, leading to rebound breakouts once treatment stops.
Our approach at Face Five Acne Clinic is to help achieve long-term, sustainable results without compromising overall health.
Your Acne Can Be Cleared Naturally
Acne is not just about the skin; it’s a reflection of what’s happening inside the body. By uncovering and addressing the root cause, you can achieve clear, healthy skin without resorting to harmful medications.
At Face Five Acne Clinic, we specialize in personalized acne solutions that get to the heart of the issue. If you’re ready to find out what’s causing your breakouts and how to clear them naturally, schedule a consultation with us today.
Let’s work together to give you the confidence you deserve, naturally and safely.

Yuki Stauffer, is a licensed Colorado Esthetician, Functional Nutrition Coach, Certified Acne Specialist, Preventive Health Instructor, and Medical Interpreter. Her Acne Solution Program offers personalized skincare, diet, and lifestyle guidance to empower clients in overcoming acne.
With expertise in skincare and a dedication to helping others, Yuki provides customized consultations and Face Five Skincare products, both in-office and online.

