Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 8/14/2006

Question
I would like to try a liver and blood cleanse to help clear up my acne. I was wondering if they work as an acne treatment, and if so, which should I use first?

Answer
Pam,
Thanks for your question.  
Cleansing can be effective for acne, along with longer-term diet changes of an organic whole foods diet high in fiber (fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains) and water, low in sugar and animal fats; essential fatty acids like flax or fish oil; a multivitamin and sometimes extra zinc; and probiotics like lactobacillus acidophilus or bifidus.  
Detoxification really only takes place in the liver; and using supplements for other body systems helps support that process, and is very important for an effective detox program.  But in the strict sense there are no "blood cleansers"; I have an idea of what herbs these might be, but that's really a misuse of the term.  I would suggest that if you do a liver cleanse, that you make sure you are also eliminating from the skin, colon, and kidneys as well.  This is done with a diet as above, adequate fluids, exercise, hydrotherapy, supplements like fiber, and herbs for colon and kidney support; in addition to the supplements for the liver.  
For more specific recommendations, I'd suggest you locate a naturopathic doctor (www.naturopathic.org) or other natural health specialist in your area, to help you through this process.
Good luck!
Dr Conner