When Nature Isn’t Enough: A Personal Story About My Recent Breakout

.As someone deeply passionate about natural skincare, I’ve always turned to ingredients like honey, herbs, and oils to support my skin. For years, they’ve been more than just remedies, they’ve been part of my connection to the earth, a way to ground myself, and a reminder that healing doesn’t always have to come from a lab.

But recently, I had a wake-up call.

I experienced a particularly stubborn breakout, the kind that doesn’t just go away with a clay mask or a dab of tea tree oil. It was hormonal, deep, inflamed, and honestly frustrating. Naturally, my first instinct was to turn to my tried-and-true natural allies. I reached for raw honey and soothing lavender, hoping for calm and clarity.

But this time, they didn’t help.

In fact, some of these ingredients made the inflammation worse. My skin felt angrier, more reactive, and I was forced to admit something I didn’t want to: I needed help beyond my apothecary of oils and herbs. It was time to see a dermatologist.

With their guidance, I was able to get the breakout under control. And while it wasn’t the natural route I usually walk, it reminded me of something important; that skincare is personal, and sometimes, it’s medical.

This experience doesn’t mean I’m turning away from natural skincare. Quite the opposite. I still believe in the gentle power of plants. I still feel that sense of inner healing when I blend oils or breathe in the scent of herbs. But I’ve learned to respect the limitations of natural remedies, especially when dealing with deeper skin issues like hormonal imbalances, cystic acne, or chronic inflammation.

Natural doesn’t always mean fast. And it doesn’t always mean effective in every situation. But for me, it means intentional. It means building a relationship with my body, my skin, and the world around me. And that connection is still worth honoring; even if, sometimes, I need to pair it with science.

If you’re dealing with something similar, please don’t feel like you’ve “failed” if nature alone doesn’t fix it. Sometimes healing means taking a different route; one that still aligns with your values, but also respects your body’s needs.

Trust your intuition, but don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can love the earth and see a dermatologist. Both can be true.

With love and honesty,

Selma