ACNE

Acne - the word that strikes fear into most teenagers hearts.

Teenagers will have a few spots here and there and maybe a pimple or two but there are others who will have the more severe inflamed acne. 

During adolescence, the ever changing levels of hormones may affect " sebaceous " or oil glands in the skin, mainly on the face, chest and sometimes the back.  Most of us will find that as we speed toward adulthood, the acne will tend to clear itself up but in the meantime it is important to understand the nature of acne and how to care for affected areas and not damage the skin. 

There are no quick miracle cures but the proper treatment and better understanding can minimise scarring and control acne. 

Acne is a common skin condition that can begin at puberty when the hormones begin activity.  This can stimulate sebaceous glands and cause them to secrete excess sebum which can cause spots, blackheads, pimples and even boils.  There are three types of acne:

1. Acne Vulgaris ( the most common form and the one that troubles most young people )

2. Acne Rosacea

3. Acne Varioliformis

Acne can occur on the forehead, nose, chin, chest, back and sometimes even on the thighs.  Inflammation begins around a hair shaft where the sebaceous glands are situated.  Sebaceous secretions block the pores of the skin causing comedones or blackheads.  Once these become inflamed, the familiar and embarrassing spots become evident.    

Acne can occur later in life and is quite common for women to break out before or during menstruation.  There are some " triggers " that can make acne worse so where possible try and avoid the following:

• Oily, greasy or thick cosmetics.  Try and allow the skin to breath.

• Hair gels, oils and sprays.

• Cigarette smoke.

• Scratching, picking or squeezing the pimples.  This may aggravate the problem to the extent where scarring and pitting can remain long after the last patch of acne has disappeared.

• Sweating and high humidity.

• Tight, heavy clothing that can rub acne sensitive areas.

• Stress and anxiety.

• Suntan oils

• Working with oils and grease.

• Some contraceptive pills ( refer to your doctor ).

• Some medicines ( refer to our Pharmacist on Duty or doctor ).

• Hormones.

1. Always make a point of gently washing acne affected areas with simple cleansers.  Avoid harsh products.

2. For body areas affected with acne, try not to wear anything but natural fibre clothing, especially in colder months, to avoid overheating the body and wear loose light clothing in warmer months.

3. Eat a low fat, nutritious diet which includes fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains.  Constipation can be a factor in contributing to skin problems because the skin is compensating for the bowels inability to eliminate waste.

4. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas, instead of soft drinks, coffee and alcohol.

5. Wash your hair regularly.

6. Be careful whilst shaving and when possible, use an electric shaver.

7. Use water based make - up if you have to.

8. Exercise on a regular basis.

Firstly, discuss with your Doctor or our Pharmacist on Duty, the best possible treatment plan for your skin.  There are effective acne preparations that can stop hair follicles from clogging the skin or products that help to loosen whiteheads and blackheads.  Always follow instructions carefully and apply acne preparations to the whole area, not just the spots so you don't end up wasting time and money on acne preparations that don't help.

The following is a selection of complimentary remedies, bearing in mind that acne can have many causes.  Remember to always get advice from trained professionals before commencing any treatment.

SPOT CHECK

Place one drop of pure Lavender Essential Oil and one drop pure Tea Tree Essential Oil onto a cotton bud.  Dab on the affected " spots "

Never use the same cotton bud or you may transfer bacteria.  Remember - one spot - one cotton bud !

NATURAL FACIAL WASH

2 drops Lemon Essential oil

5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil

5 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil

3 drops Sandalwood Essential Oil

5 drops Lavender Essential Oil

One dark glass, amber or blue bottle

Pour 50mls of boiling water into the bottle, add the essential oils, then leave the solution to cool.  Use the solution to wash the affected areas with and remember to shake the bottle before each use.  Can be applied to the back, arms, chest and face, making sure any sensitive eye areas are avoided.

Beautifully fragrant too !

CLEARING SKIN

As any pimples begin to clear, massage comfrey cream or the oil from pure Vitamin E capsules in to the area to help reduce scarring.

HERBS AND VITAMINS

• Vitamin A - commonly used in the treatment of acne because it helps to maintain healthy mucous membranes, the natural barriers against disease and may assist your skin to be more resistant to infection

• Zinc - aids in the healing of skin disorders and is often used specifically for acne

• Vitamin C - essential for the formation of collagen which holds the tissues together.  It aids the body's immune system which in turn helps to reduce inflammation.

• Echinacea - a valuable blood purifier and an immune stimulant.

• Dong Quai - balances hormones which may cause acne outbreaks.

• Evening Primrose Oil - may also help to balance hormones.

• Wheatgrass and Barley - highly concentrated foods rich in trace elements and chlorophyll.  The tonic effect on the bloodstream is most beneficial for the internal treatment of acne and other skin problems.

Lastly don't despair !  Acne and pimples are, unfortunately, part of life for some, but the right advice, knowledge and correct treatments can make a big difference.  It may take a month or two or even a bit longer but improve it will when you seek the right advice.