When I think about acne, I flash back to my teenage years. I remember being so relieved when I finally entered my 20s. I had always associated acne with puberty until I broke out as an adult the morning just before a big photoshoot (because my body also has a sense of humor). Surely this was not the same kind of adolescent acne that surfaced in high school. So why was this happening now? It turns out there are many reasons beyond hormones that influence our skin.

As the largest organ of the body, the skin’s primary function (along with the brilliant ability to protect, absorb and regulate temperature) is to detox and filter. Skin is a reflection of one’s internal health. So while we may be bummed about the zit on our nose that no amount of concealer can hide, it is a good sign that your body is serving its purpose.

In fact, breakouts can be the perfect invitation to deepen your personal practice in healing. Imagine if you see your freshly…