My 16-year-old daughter has been told that she has 'scarring acne'. The dermatologist suggests Roaccutane, but I was horrified to read about its side effects. Are there any natural options?

The good news is there's much you can do: consult the books listed at the end of this column for in-depth advice. A diet rich in nutrients and essential fatty acids will help. Oil of Rosa Mosqueta (Rio Trading, 01273 570987), fresh pineapple applied to skin for 15 minutes (then rinsed off with cold water), and natural-source vitamin E taken internally can all reduce scarring.

My teenage daughter has conspicuous hand warts. The consultant recommends formaldehyde cream, and filing away the dead epithelium. I'd like to back this up with a holistic approach.

Teenage years can be turbulent: the immune system is developed, but can be suppressed by the stress hormone cortisol, resulting in lower resistance and susceptibility to bacterial infections or viruses. Her topical treatment can be helped by attention to diet - sulphur-rich foods such as eggs, broccoli, garlic and onions, and those containing vitamin A, C and zinc and live yogurt, will strengthen immunity. Also give her zinc citrate (17.1mg once-a-day), vitamin C with anti-viral bioflavonoids (vitamin-C-plex) and Vitaguard, a multivitamin and mineral designed for teenagers (all from Biocare, 0121-433 8702).

Lucy Burney's Immunity Foods For Healthy Kids is a bible of immune-boosting tasty food ideas; An A-Z Of Children's Health, by Sally K Child, has a chapter on immune function and a section on diet, supplements and alternative topical treatments. Both books are a must.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following Emma's recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.