Acne & Skin Care

Dr. Luka Kovač’s Skincare Tips: Zit Home Remedies & Hormone-Free Choices

(Imagine him in his calm, caring ER doc tone, maybe leaning slightly against a counter with a cup of herbal tea…)

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“You’d be surprised how many patients come into the ER worried about zits, not just broken bones,” Dr. Kovač says with a wry smile. “Acne isn’t life-threatening, but for many, it affects confidence—and that matters.”

Here are some of his go-to natural remedies:

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
  “A diluted solution of ACV can help because it’s antibacterial. Just don’t overdo it. Dab it on with a cotton pad—1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. And always moisturize after. ACV can be harsh.”
• Baking Soda:
  “It can be used as a gentle exfoliant or spot treatment. But again, moderation is key. You don’t want to mess with your skin’s pH too much. Try a paste with a little water, leave it on for a few minutes, and rinse well.”
• Coconut Oil:
  “Only for people with dry or non-acne-prone skin. It’s antimicrobial, yes, but also comedogenic—it can clog pores for some people. So use it with caution.”

Then, he shifts to the diet side.

• Stay Away from Dairy with Bovine Growth Hormone:
  “In my experience—and there’s growing evidence—milk with added hormones can aggravate acne, especially in teens. These hormones can throw off your own balance.”
• Better Alternatives:
  “I recommend switching to organic milk or goat’s milk. Goat’s milk has smaller fat globules, making it easier to digest. And organic milk is hormone-free, so it’s a safer bet for skin-sensitive people.”

He finishes with a little grin:
“Look, if you’re dealing with persistent breakouts, talk to your doctor. But it doesn’t hurt to start with what’s in your kitchen. Just avoid burning your face off with TikTok trends, alright?”

Dr. Luka Kovac on Acne: Remedies and Root Causes

🌿 Home Remedies for Acne (by Dr. Kovac):

Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances skin pH and kills acne-causing bacteria.

Probiotics – Improve gut health, which reflects in clearer skin.

Wheatgrass Juice – A powerful detoxifier rich in chlorophyll.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish oil, flaxseed; reduce inflammation.

MCT Oil (Medium Chain Triglycerides) – Boosts metabolism and skin hydration.

Lemon Juice – Acts as a natural astringent and lightens acne scars.

Baking Soda – Gently exfoliates and neutralizes skin acidity.

Tea Tree Oil – Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, best used diluted.

Aloe Vera Gel – Soothes redness and speeds healing.

Orange Peels – Rich in vitamin C; used as a drying mask or scrub.

Oatmeal Facials – Calm inflammation and absorb excess oil.

Holy Basil & Sweet Basil – Antimicrobial herbs; can be used in tea or paste.

Steam & Sweat – Sauna or steam room opens pores and detoxifies skin.

Eat Clean – A healthy, anti-inflammatory diet helps from the inside out.

🚫 Causes of Acne (According to Dr. Kovac):

Hormonal Imbalances – Androgens can overstimulate oil glands.

Poor Gut Health – Dysbiosis leads to skin inflammation.

Excess Sugar & Dairy – Linked to increased sebum and breakouts.

Refined Carbs – High-glycemic foods spike insulin, triggering acne.

Toxin Overload – From processed foods, pollution, and heavy metals.

Dehydration – Skin compensates by producing excess oil.

Cosmetic Chemicals – Pore-clogging ingredients in skincare/makeup.

Chronic Stress – Triggers cortisol, worsening inflammation and oiliness.

Lack of Sleep – Weakens immune defense, slows skin healing.

Over-washing the Face – Strips oils, leading to rebound oil production.

Synthetic Fragrances – Common irritants in skincare and detergents.

Food Allergies or Intolerances – Especially gluten, soy, and lactose.

🧴 Dr. Kovac’s Advice:
Treat the root, not just the skin. Detox your body, nourish your gut, balance hormones, and let your skin breathe. Your skin is a reflection of your internal health.