Hello All,

I noticed on my second long-term visit to China (both over 2-weeks long) that for the second time, major "breakouts" on my back, chest, arms, and legs had cleared up significantly. These "breakouts" appear as red & white pastules; one could guess they are acne-related or some form of bacterial infections, and a dermatologist previously diagnosed them as eczema.

I am curious why these breakouts cleared in China, whereas anywhere I have lived in the US (both the midwest and southern California) I have not experienced any significant improvements. Any advice/suggestion where to look for explanations is greatly appreciated!!!!

P.S. - Both trips took place in two different cities both in southern China, both with high population densities. My diet was similar to that of a typical Chinese native today - 3 meals consisting of either noodles or rice and occasional packaged "snacks" commonly found in any chinese snack shop. I didn't feel any effects from the air quality either time I was there.

Simply put, my theory ( and take my theory lightly ) is that other countries generally have better food. Aka, they are the few countries that don't have genetically modified food. The United States is, and people are still fighting the FDA and Monsanto over GMO labeling laws. Research the GMO project and other websites that can tell you about it. Most countries like in Europe have banned genetically modified foods, so the USA is pretty much where it's at.

GMO food has not been proven safe, and in fact some taco shells by Taco Bell were recalled a long while ago due to the type of "bacterium" being created by the GMO foods. >>> http://www.nytimes.com/2000/09/23/business/kraft-recalls-taco-shells-with-bioengineered-corn.html

I notice the same thing as you when I travel. In fact, I notice it if I eat out, even if I'm not eating my trigger foods anymore. But if I cook at home with organic and "protected" foods, I'm fine. I'll probably be flamed for this post, but whatever. That's just my observation. I hope that helps at least a bit. Honestly put, we'd probably have to leave or lobby for safer foods, something that is not occurring with the FDA here in the United States anymore.

That's interesting. I've been traveling to China (Shanghai) for five or so years, and I find that the hard water often breaks me out.

I'd probably assume it's the native diet you adhere to when traveling. Or perhaps more sun exposure? I'm very pale but find that with increased facial sun exposure, my skin texture becomes smoother and clearer.

I have to agree with the above posters! Particularly the gluten/wheat allergy theory regarding acne. Did you find that you ate a lot more rice and a lot less bread products? That would further support this theory.