Definition:
A common inflammatory condition characterized by papules, pustules, superficial pus filled cysts and sometimes inflamed prudent sacs affecting the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of the skin.
Acne lesions predominate on the face but are also common on the neck, chest, upper back and shoulders. Scarring is common.
Etiology:
There is a complex interaction between hormones, keratinisation, sebum and bacteria and this determines the course and severity of the condition. Acne begins at puberty, when the increase in androgen causes an increase in the size and activity of the hair glands.
Orthodox treatment:
Topical cleansing with soap and water and antibiotic treatment (tetracycline). Contraceptive pill for females.
Natural medicine treatment and management:
Possible contributing factors:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Gut dysbiosis
- Polycystic ovaries
- Poor liver function
- Excessive sebum/keratin production
- Deficiencies – Zinc, B6, and/or EFAs
Diet and lifestyle suggestions:
Include:
- Drink plenty of pure filtered water daily
- Relaxation techniques such as yoga deep breathing exercises
- Three portions of oily fish week (Wild salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, pilchards, etc.)
- Plenty of fresh organic (to avoid hormone disrupting chemicals) fruit and vegetables daily. (Include three different vegetables with meals for antioxidants) e.g. lemons (bioflavonoids and vitamin C); red/black berries (anti inflammatory); grapes (cleanser); apples (bind toxins); onions/garlic (detox); sea vegetables (minerals)
- Start the day with fresh organic juice (Carrot, Celery, beetroot, ginger, turmeric)
- Snack on seeds such as sunflower, pumpkin and nuts such as almonds, walnuts.
- Pulses, beans, lentils, chickpeas and whole grains etc. For fiber
Avoid:
- All stimulants including tea, coffee, chocolate and sugar
- Antibiotics
- Foods that contain refined carbohydrates (e.g.biscuits, cakes, puddings, pastries, and white – flour products)
- Alcohol
- Foods that are high in saturated fats (red meat and dairy products).
- Fried foods (grill, bake, steam or stir fry instead)
- Artificial sweeteners, preservatives and additives
- Smoking
Consider:
- Colon flush
- Zinc picolinate (25 – 30 mg daily on a empty stomach)
- Colloidal Silver and herbal topical toner (antibacterial, wound healing and anti inflammatory)
- Vitamin B complex (extra B6)
- Probiotics (milk kefir, 100ml daily on a empty stomach)
- Liver support drops
- Essential fatty acids (the real life fish oil liquid)
Herbal medicine
We can provide the following at our clinic:
Colon Flush @ R80
Liver support drops @ R200
Colon support drops @ R200
Topical Herbal/Colloidal Silver toner @ R200
Milk kefir/probiotics @ R80
Flaxseed/fibre and EFA @ R80
IMUNEO SPICES (Antioxidants and anti inflammatory, Vitamins (C, E, A, phytonutrients,
Bioflavonoids, etc) @ R120
I recommend the following daily routine:
- Wash face with Bio-logic Clear Skin Soap (Faithful to Nature). Pat dry with a clean towel.