Homeopathy & Acne

Most of us think of acne as a modern curse. Right? Wrong. Ancient Egyptian writings, for instance, illustrate how the great Pharoahs grappled with the disorder. The evidence is: traces of essential oils used to treat acne scars were found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Acne is a depressing disorder — more so, because some of the most severe forms of acne can leave permanent scars, not just on the skin but on one’s psyche. They can cause depression, or dejection, and even suicidal tendencies.

What is acne

In simple terms, acne [zits, or pimples] is the inflammation of the sebaceous glands that secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair follicles. Acne appears as eruptions of hard-pointed, or isolated, elevations of skin with pimpled spots.

• Acne affects both girls and boys equally, although there are some variations
• It generally wanes or disappears in one’s early twenties
• It can, at times, affect adults in their forties too.

What research says

Many people believe that eating chocolates, greasy or junk food can lead to pimples. The fact is research

has not found anything convincing enough to blame particular foods for acne outbreaks.

The reality is that each of us is different and we react to foods differently. Some people report of acne breakouts after eating certain foods, while others have no such problems.

So, know your acne trigger and report it to your homeopathic doctor — who will prescribe the most suitable homeopathic medicine for acne that suits your individuality best.

Some conventional medications can cause acne; for example, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medications and steroids. Other causes include strong, oily cosmetics, over-abrasive cleansing and heavy scrubbing of the skin, pressure from helmets, backpacks and tight clothing. Environmental pollutants and certain chemicals can also cause acne, as well as trigger flare-ups. 

Pollution can have just as much effect on the skin, clogging the pores and leading to acne outbreaks.

What’s most dangerous is picking or squeezing the eruption. This can cause the acne blemish to move deep into the skin, leading to scarring.

Homeopathy: Safe, effective treatment for acne

Homeopathy looks at acne as a defence mechanism — the body’s internal response to fighting an intruder [e.g. bacteria].

Acne, homeopathy also suggests, heals best when it is tackled from beneath the skin, from within the body. When one’s face, for example, is affected by acne, it suggests that the body has not come to grips with the eruption through its natural healing processes.

Clinical studies suggest that individualised homeopathic medicines for acne — based on the acne-affected individual’s unique pattern of symptoms — can stimulate a good healing response in skin conditions, such as acne, without side-effects.  

The advice of a professional homeopath, however, is imperative in dealing with and successfully treating acne.

Self-Help

• Do not scratch or pick at the skin. This may lead to [re]infection. Worse still, it will aggravate and spread the acne
• Do not use chemical-based soaps that dry the skin. Instead use an aqueous herbal soap. After washing, pat, do not rub, the skin dry
• Cotton clothing is ideal wear
• Eat a balanced diet. Avoid fast and fatty food. Reduce or cut out meat and dairy. They can worsen and increase acne outbreaks
• Avoid the use of refined carbohydrates — white rice, excess sugar, and white flour [maida]. Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco also tend to aggravate acne
• Exercise regularly. Exercise ‘ups’ the level of endorphins or feel-good chemicals, in the body, providing a relaxed and confident feeling
• Ensure healthy bowel movement. Include natural fibre, like flaxseed, with a meal. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself well hydrated through the day and keep acne at bay
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation, or yoga
• Consult and follow-up with your homeopathic doctor on a regular basis and/or when you notice a change in your acne pattern, symptom, or intensity.