Acne

(see also Skin Problems)

Symptoms

Although widely accepted as an adolescent problem, acne can be just as troublesome for an adult. The face is usually most affected, as well as the neck, back and chest. Mild cases of acne are characterized by red pimples and blackheads, but do not leave lasting impressions on the skin. Severe cases can cause painful abscesses, widened pores and knots of scarred tissue. Scratching spreads the infection to other areas.

Those who appear to develop acne on the cheeks at a rather late age probably suffer from rosacea, an adult skin condition that looks similar to acne, but does not develop until after age thirty.

Causes

This annoying skin problem is caused by an overproduction of sebum, an oily substance which helps protect the skin. A build-up of sebum blocks and infects pores, which produces pustules and blackheads. The black color of blackheads is a result of their exposure to air at the skin’s surface. People with naturally oily skin are more susceptible to acne.

The underlying cause of increased sebum production lies internally. Hormonal disturbances usually cause acne in most adolescents. Women whose skin is affected by PMS, or who are taking birth control pills get acne as a result of an imbalance of hormones. The hormonal imbalance is usually coupled with blood impurities caused by a poor diet, including deep-fried food, saturated fats, sweets and junk food, chronic constipation, and an overburdened, sluggish liver, unable to detoxify the blood thoroughly. Since the skin is another means of detoxification, wastes that remain in the blood are eliminated through the skin. Nicotine and alcohol affect the skin, as do individual susceptibilities to certain foods and allergies. Exposure to chemicals such as iodine, bromine, chlorine and petroleum also cause acne, though this is not common.

Nutrition

Certain fats can be the best dietary weapon against acne. Unrefined, cold-pressed flax seed oil, sesame oil, pumpkin seed oil and walnut oil contain the essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid. These oils lower the body’s production of sebum, reducing the pore clogging which causes acne. A deficiency in the essential fatty acids will trigger increased production of sebum. Flax seed oil in particular ensures regular bowel movements, which encourage toxins to be eliminated via the bowel, not the skin.

Use two tablespoons of unrefined, cold-pressed oil daily on salads of raw, leafy vegetables or in any dishes which do not require heating. High temperatures damage essential fatty acids. Fresh, raw vegetables at every meal will provide nutrients needed for healthy skin, including beta-carotene which is essential for epithelial tissue maintenance and repair. Vitamin C aids in resisting the spread of acne infection, and fiber helps keep the colon clear. Raw fruits and vegetables also contain enzymes which boost immune system strength. Raw, unroasted and unsalted pumpkin or sunflower seeds provide zinc, which is an important nutrient for skin health. A deficiency in zinc causes acne in some people. Many adolescents are deficient in zinc.

Fats from animal products and processed food interfere with the metabolization of the essential fatty acids and should be avoided. Especially harmful are the trans-fatty acids contained in heat-damaged and hydrogenated fats. Fried food, shortening, margarine and most commercially prepared food are full of hydrogenated fats.

Nutritional yeast contains vitamins B2, B5 and B6, which help reduce facial oiliness and blackhead formation. Nutritional yeast also provides zinc and chromium, which help reduce skin infections and act to balance sugar levels in the blood. Nutritional yeast comes in flakes which can be sprinkled onto cereals and salads or dissolved in drinks, sauces and soups. It is also available in a spreadable paste. Kefir-based yeast is the best source of nutritional yeast.

In some cases, acne is triggered by an allergy to certain foods. Common culprits are chocolate, nuts and fatty food. If a certain food is suspected of causing acne outbreaks, it should first be eliminated from the diet for a few weeks, then reintroduced and the effect carefully observed. Acne has been associated with excess salt in the diet. A detoxifying and cleansing juice fast for one week can be helpful. The juices must be made from fresh, whole fruits and vegetables.

An alternative approach that could be adopted to remedy post-acne scarring involves some changes to the diet. Food rich in vitamins A, B complex, C, E and trace minerals should be consumed. A partial list of these are: wholegrain breads, cereals and pastas, wheat germ, avocados, sea vegetables, blue-green algae, barley green, bee pollen, apples, cucumbers, millet, rice bran and sprouts of all kinds. The most important fresh juices to use as often as possible are carrot, celery, lemon, cucumber, endive and pineapple.

Nutritional Supplements

High doses of vitamin A have been very beneficial when taken over several months. Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A and can be added for optimal effect. Vitamin E enhances the action of vitamin A and helps prevent scarring. Vitamin E also has a balancing effect on the hormonal system.

Vitamin B6 is often useful for reducing acne flare-ups during PMS. As B vitamins are best taken together, supplement B6 with a vitamin B complex. Take throughout the month or during the last two weeks of the cycle. B vitamins are also very useful in combating the effects of stress.

Acne sufferers are often low in zinc and selenium. Zinc plays a vital role in immune function, and regulates oily secretions in the skin. Selenium enhances the action of vitamin E. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in evening primrose oil is also highly recommended to control acne, as it is an excellent nutrient for the skin.

Acne is often associated with food allergies/sensitivities, as well as hormonal imbalances, which could be related to bowel flora imbalances, yeast or fungi, pathogenic bacteria or parasites. The initial triggering factor, however, could very well be low stomach acidity or deficiency in pancreatic digestive enzymes. A relative lack of these digestive juices diminishes the natural host defense against pathogenic organisms. The usual effective solution is to supplement with stomach acidifiers, plant or pancreatic enzymes, or both, and Lactobacillus acidophilus or other friendly microbes. To test for low production of stomach hydrochloric acid or pancreatic digestive enzymes, a natural health care practitioner can analyze blood, urine and stool samples.

Dairy-free brands of Lactobacillus acidophilus, which should not be confused with either yogurt of acidophilus milk, can be taken in capsule or powdered form. These friendly bacteria are the ones killed off by antibiotic prescriptions. Without these micro-organisms, the individual’s resistance to infections worsens and more infections develop. A vicious cycle of antibiotics, infections and antibiotics is established with the victim developing a weakened immune system.

Green superfood such as spirulina and chlorella can also be effective.

All supplements should be continued for several months for full effect.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Vitamin A, 50,000 IU for two days, then reduce to 25,000 IU daily (avoid during pregnancy)

Chromium GTF, 400 mcg

Zinc, 50 mg, with 3–4 mg copper

Selenium, 200 mcg

Evening primrose oil, two 500 mg capsules three times daily

Helpful

Beta-carotene, 30,000 IU

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU or break open capsule and apply externally

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg up to three times daily

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg

Lactobacillus acidophilus, 3 capsules or 1 tsp. on an empty stomach

Grape seed extract, 50–100 mg

Vitamin B6 as P-5-P, 100 mg

Herbal Remedies

Clogged pores and internal impurities causing acne can be cleansed effectively with herbal remedies.

Use camomile face steam and compresses to open clogged pores, then wash face with a warm, damp cotton cloth soaked in camomile infusion for healing, or sage to disinfect. Finish with a cool splash of yarrow infusion to tighten the pores.

Another good face cleanser is lavender vinegar. Soak flowering tips of lavender in 1 qt. of apple cider vinegar, filter and mix 1 tbsp. of this tincture with 1/2 cup of water. Other astringent herbs to apply externally include comfrey, birch leaves, thyme and blueberry leaves.

To cleanse blood impurities causing acne, drink herbal teas or juices made of stinging nettle, dandelion, camomile, yarrow, horsetail or birch leaves.

Drinking aloe vera juice for two weeks will greatly contribute to clearing up acne by cleansing internally. Take 2 oz. three or more times daily.

Aloe vera gel or calendula cream can be applied directly to the skin.

Echinacea has a long history of use in inhibiting inflammation, promoting wound healing, stimulating the immune system and killing bacteria. Effective dosage depends on the severity of the problems and the tolerance of the individual.

Goldenseal has detoxifying and antimicrobial properties. It also stimulates the immune system. Effective dosage depends on the severity of the problem and the tolerance of the individual.

Tea tree oil has a variety of antimicrobial activities and has been successfully used as a topical treatment for many different skin conditions, especially those associated with fungal or candida infections. Dab 1 drop of tea tree oil on the head of the pimple twice daily.

Serenoa repens, an extract of saw palmetto, is very effective in the management of more stubborn cases because of its ability to reduce the levels of di-hydrotestosterone, the hormone responsible for stimulating acne development.

Alpha hydroxy acids, the most effective of which is glycolic acid, are acknowledged by dermatologists and plastic surgeons as the best products to both cleanse and exfoliate the skin. These naturally occurring, non-toxic substances are derived from sour milk, grapes, citrus fruits, apples and sugar cane. When used in conjunction with a protein called epidermal growth factor (EGF) that the skin normally uses to protect against injury from burns and cuts, glycolic acid is effective and free of side-effects.

Gotu kola has been shown to be effective even in the treatment of keloids and other types of large scars.

Homeopathy

Many homeopathic remedies for acne exist. As homeopathy is specific to each person, below is a sample of the many other prescribed remedies. Choose one of the remedies in the 6c strength, three times daily for up to fourteen days. An experienced homeopath can provide a more in-depth treatment if the condition does not improve.

Hepar sulph is used for large pus-filled pimples that are painful when touched.

Take Ledum for pustular acne on the cheeks and nose.

Take Pulsatilla for acne associated with hormonal changes such as the beginning of menstruation.

Kali brom is recommended for itchy, stinging pimples on the face, chest and shoulders.

Tissue Salts

Take 4 tablets three times daily under the tongue until the condition clears.

Kali mur is useful in adolescents with a chronic problem, when the acne contains thick, white matter and there is swelling.

Adolescents who have a tendency toward anemia and look pale, where the acne is red and itchy, and worse from washing, will benefit from Calc phos.

Calc sulph is recommended for pimples with yellow scabs that are stubborn to heal.

Silicea cleanses and eliminates waste. It creates a passage to the surface for the discharge of pus and helps the body get rid of impurities. Silicea helps any chronic skin condition.

External/Physical Therapies

Mild massage around the affected area promotes blood circulation and speeds the healing process.

Kneipp water therapy also helps to promote blood circulation.

Lots of fresh air, exercise and moderate sun exposure will help circulation and clear the skin.

Facial steam baths and compresses help to open clogged pores.

To heal and reduce inflammation, dab fresh sauerkraut juice on the affected areas twice daily.

For an effective face mask, mix 4 tbsp. of brewer’s yeast, 1 cup of yogurt, 2 tbsp. of unpasteurized honey and 3 tsp. of bee pollen. Spread this paste on the face and leave for ten minutes, then wash off and apply a propolis salve.

The lactic acid of whey has a strong disinfecting action which prevents the formation of micro-organisms like Candida albicans.

Do not squeeze pimples or whiteheads; this spreads infection and can cause scarring.

Acupressure

Apply deep thumb pressure for one minute on points, as illustrated.

Reflexology

Work on the liver, kidney and gall-bladder points for detoxification. Balance the body’s chemicals by working all the endocrine glands and the small intestine and colon areas at the bottom of the feet for easier bowel elimination.

Other Suggestions

The skin eliminates toxins in the body which are not released through other means. Support-ing the other detoxifying organs—the kidneys, liver and intestines—with a regular fasting program will clear up the acne in most cases.

A periodic colon cleanse is also recommended.

Acne is related to food or skin sensitivity, so allergy testing would be advisable. (For more information, see Appendix 1.)

A common recommendation to people who have suffered from the scarring effects of acne is collagen injections. Collagen injections have been reported to cause severe allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals. People who suffer from fibromyalgia or other immune system problems are often more sensitive to drugs and injections of almost any kind. Collagen shots, therefore, should be approached with great caution.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Silicea Gel (Anton Huebner)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 1000 mg Capsules (Flora)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 500 mg Capsules (Flora)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 30 ml Liquid (Flora)

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

Micel-A (Klaire Laboratories)

Micel-E (Klaire Laboratories)

Pure E (Klaire Laboratories)

Zinc Plus (Klaire Laboratories)

Acidophilus & Bifidus (Natural Factors)

Beta Carotene (Natural Factors)

Beta Green (Natural Factors)

Cal’dophilus (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil 1000 mg (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil Liquid (Natural Factors)

Hi Potency Multi (Natural Factors)

Mega Acidophilus Powder (Natural Factors)

Multi Acidophilus (Natural Factors)

Protec Acidophilus (Natural Factors)

Silica Extract (Natural Factors)

Stress B Formula (Natural Factors)

Super Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Ultra Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Ultra Prim Evening Primrose Oil (Natural Factors)

Vitamin A (Natural Factors)

Vitamin E 400 Dry Form (Natural Factors)

Zinc Citrate (Natural Factors)

Flax Oil (Omega Nutrition)

Derma-Force (Prairie Naturals)

Super Once A Day (Quest Vitamins)

Other Nutritional Supplements

Aloe Vera Gel (Nature’s Herbs)

Aloe Vera Inner Leaf (Nature’s Herbs)

Aloe Vera Gel (The Real Aloe Co.)

Herbal Remedies

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Medicinal Tea: For Women (Flora)

Medicinal Tea: Hautex (Flora)

Schoenenberger Nettle Cellular Plant Juice (Flora)

Green Magma (Green Foods)

Green Kamut (Green Kamut)

Dandelion Root Extract (Natural Factors)

Echinacea Fresh Herb Tincture & Goldenseal (Natural Factors)

Echinacea Fresh Herb Tincture (Natural Factors)

Enriching Greens (Natural Factors)

Saw Palmetto Extract (Natural Factors)

Dandelion-Golden Seal Combination (Nature’s Herbs)

Echinacea-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Golden Seal Root Extract (Nature’s Herbs)

Green-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Saw Palmetto-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Herbals for Skin: Acne (Sisu)

Homeopathy

Bach Flower Remedies (Bach-Karooch Ltd)

Hepar Sulph (Nelsons Homeopathy)

External Therapies

Aminoderm Gel (Aubrey Organics)

Bergamot Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Chamomile Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Geranium Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Grapefruit Oil (Karooch Essential Oil)

Juniper Berry (Karooch Essential Oils)

Lavender Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Lemon Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Palmarosa Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Acne Gel (Nelsons Homeopathy)

Rainforest Facial Cleansing Gel (Prairie Naturals)

Sea Spray Facial Cleansing Gel (Prairie Naturals)