Like many teens, I suffered from acne. However, mine was not the occasional annoying breakout. It was huge flare-ups that no concealer could cover. I was self-conscious and my confidence was at an all-time low. I hated meeting new people and looking friends in the eye. All I could think about was how they were probably judging my complexion. It was no way to live.

I went to a dermatologist to another dermatologist trying to figure out a remedy that would work for me.

They prescribed me every medicine in the book, I tried harsh topical cream, oral medication, birth control, but nothing seemed to work. The medicine made me feel dizzy and light headed, and the topical cream dried my skin out to the point where it was peeling. Clearly, the route of harsh medication was not working. So, I did some research and came across studies on how natural oils and diet can make a huge difference.

I was willing to try anything at that point, so I put the harsh prescription medicine away and went with the alternatives.

I ordered a tea tree oil based face wash and cream called Keeva. Within the first two days, I noticed a huge difference. My skin was soft, less red, and my angry pimples were gone. I was absolutely shocked! I was so inspired by how much of a difference the two days made, so I decided to go all in.

Every study in the book says the same thing — diet matters for clear skin.

Now, dairy and sugar are both main ingredients in my favorite food: ice cream. I love most things with dairy in them, including cheese. However, I knew if I wanted to keep seeing results I needed to make the right decision for my body and cut dairy out.

It surprisingly was not hard. There are so many great alternatives to dairy (including dairy-free ice cream). This not only improved my complexion, but I started to feel less bloated, had more energy, and got better sleep. I was sold.

I am the biggest advocate for natural alternatives now. I know how frustrating it is to go from doctor to doctor with no results. While no two people are the same, and what works for some may not work for others, but for me, less is more. By using basic oils such as tea tree, and washing my face with a gentle cleanser my skin does not dry out — thus not producing pore-clogging oil. Tea tree oil is also naturally antibacterial, which prevents bacteria from clogging pores.

I highly recommend the brand Keeva for a skincare routine. It is organic and has simple ingredients. Plus, because it's so effective you can use a lot less- meaning the bottle lasts for a good three or four months! (Keeva, please sponsor me!!)

While I still suffer from the occasional pimple, it is a night and day difference than what I was experiencing before switching to more natural remedies.