There is a myriad
of products sold for the treatment of acne, many of
them without any scientifically proven effects. However,
a combination of treatments can usually prevent acne
in all but the most severe cases. Generally there are
three types of treatments that have been proven effective:
Killing the bacteria that are caused by the blocked
follicles. This is done either by the intake of antibiotics
like tetracyclines, or by treating the affected areas
externally with bactericidal substances like benzoyl
peroxide. However, reducing the p.acnes bacteria will
not, in itself, do anything to reduce the oil secretion
that is the initial cause of the blocked follicles.
Therefore, acne will generally reappear quite soon
after the end of treatment — days later in the
case of topical applications, and weeks later in the
case of oral antibiotics.
Reducing the secretion of oils from the glands.
This is done by a great daily intake of Vitamin A
derivates like isotretinoin over a period of a few
months. The product is sold by Roche under the names
Accutane in USA and Roaccutane in Europe. Isotretinoin
has been shown to be very effective in treating severe
acne and is effective in up to 80% of the patients.
The drug has a much longer effect than anti-bacterial
treatments and will often cure acne for good. The
treatment requires close medical examination by a
dermatologist since the drug has many known side effects.
The most common are dry skin and nosebleed. It can
also permanently damage the liver and cause depression.
The drug also causes birth defects if women become
pregnant while taking it.
Exfoliating the skin. The topical treatment salicylic
acid for example encourages the peeling of the top
layer of skin to prevent a build-up of dead skin cells
which combine with skin oil to block pores. It also
helps to unblock clogged pores.
Popping a pimple or any physical acne treatment should
not be attempted by anyone but a qualified dermatologist.
Pimple popping irritates skin, can spread the infection
deeper into the skin and can cause permanent scarring.
Almost everyone has suffered
from acne at one time or another in his or her
lives. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous
gland (glands in the skin that secrete an oily
substance) of the face, the neck and back. When
the sebaceous glands become clogged with the oily
substance they create, the accumulation results
in pimples. There are several forms of acne, but
the most common is acne vulgaris, found primarily
in adolescents.
The exact cause of acne is not
known, but factors that contribute to this condition
include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional
factors include allergies, stress, the use of
certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver
dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants,
cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle.
In addition, the skin functions
to eliminate a portion of the body’s toxic
waste by sweating. If the body contains more toxins
than the kidneys or liver can effectively discharge,
the skin takes over. In fact, some doctors call
the skin the 3rd kidney. As toxins escape through
the skin, they can disrupt the health and integrity
of the skin, creating issues.
Recommendations for Wellness
Note: Some of these recommendations
may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements
are experienced.
Apply distilled white vinegar
(can be diluted if too strong) to the face and
affected areas. Allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes
before rinsing off with cool water.
Lemon or any citric fruit works
great as a natural exfoliate, removing dead skin
cells that may clog the pours. As with the white
vinegar, apply the juice of a lemon (or desired
citric juice) to the face. Allow it to dry for
about 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
You may feel a mild sting or burn when the lemon
juice is applied. If so, diluting the juice is
acceptable.
Increase water consumption. Water helps flush
toxin out and help transport nutrients in the
body.
Eat a properly balanced diet to ensure proper
nutrition.
Take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral
supplement to make up for nutrients missing
in today’s foods.
Echinacea or Oregon grape can be used to boost
the immune system and fight acne-causing bacteria.
Dandelion, Burdock or red clover can help
to keep the liver clear of toxic overload.
Herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshine's
Ayurvedic Skin Detox and BP-X can also be used
to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce
acne.
Historically, large quantities of vitamin
A have been successfully used to treat severe
acne. Large amounts, however, can be toxic and
should be used when working with your health
care provider.
Consider adding additional zinc to your diet.
Zinc aids in the healing of tissues and assists
in preventing scarring. It is also important
for the body in resisting infection and inflammation.
To clear and heal the skin, try a homeopathic
Acne remedy. It can help to dry up pimples &
prevent future outbreaks.
About the Author
Do you suffer from a chronic
medical condition that defies diagnosis? Do you
feel “stuck” or dissatisfied with
life? Whether it is a physical problem, an emotional
issue, a problem at work or a problem in a relationship,
medical intuitive, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. can
help you bring health, healing and wholeness back
into your life. You can find Dr. Louise at http://www.soulhealer.com.
