Acne is a common, non-contagious skin complaint that affects so many of us. Characterised by blackheads, whiteheads, yellow pus-filled spots and redness caused by inflammation, a small percentage of which will form painful cysts that can cause scarring if left untreated.

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Where does it appear?

Acne is most frequently found on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back and chest. It is most common during puberty, although contrary to popular opinion acne doesn't just affect teenagers - it can persist or even begin during adulthood.

What triggers it?

There are two main causes of acne: hormones and stress. With the onset of puberty there is an accompanying increase in the production of testosterone, a male hormone which is produced by both men and women. Acne is caused when the skin has an abnormal reaction to this testosterone.

Sebaceous glands in the skin can be very sensitive to testosterone, which can lead them to produce more sebum, giving rise to an oilier complexion. Dead skin cells on the skin's surface can also become coated with this sebum, making them sticky and partially blocking pores. Once a pore is blocked, the flow of oils to the skin's surface is restricted which causes a build-up in the channel, creating a blackhead. If the pore becomes totally blocked, sebum continues to accumulate and bacteria that is naturally present on the skin starts to thrive. This results in a pustule and inflammation in the surrounding tissue of the skin. If the inflammation is especially deep and acute it can lead to cysts and even scarring.

Other factors such as stress can also trigger the production of more testosterone, which has been cited as a primary cause of 'adult acne'.

How can it be treated?

Acne can almost always be improved and the essential first step is to use a gentle skincare regime (see 'Skincare advice'). Your GP or dermatologist may prescribe topical retinoids for mild to moderate cases, with the aim of 'unplugging' pores and preventing bacteria from forming. Sometimes doctors will prescribe a course of oral treatment antibiotics or topical creams containing antibiotics which can help. It's also common sense that a healthy, well-balanced diet benefits us all, inside and out. Eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables every day will provide you with the vitamins needed for healthy skin.

Dietary supplements

The better the quality of food and nutrients we give ourselves, the better the chance our body and skin have of functioning well. Dietary supplements can be beneficial for an effective immune system, especially during times of stress. Make sure your body is getting the right levels of nutrients by taking a good source of multivitamins and multi-minerals. Natural source vitamin E can also be beneficial, as can a daily dose of the essential fatty acid GLA (found in evening primrose oil) which is great for helping to create strong, resilient skin cells.

Complementary medicine

The Chinese often refer to skin as the 'third eye', as it can be an accurate outward reflection of what's going on inside the body. Conditions like acne often respond well to complementary therapies such as herbalism and homeopathy. When choosing a medical herbalist, see a reputable, well-qualified practitioner who is registered with one of the governing organisations (see 'Want to know more?').

Skincare advice

A calming skincare regime is ideal for helping to keep skin healthy, soothed and balanced:

  • A gentle cleansing routine helps to reduce sebum levels and limits the amount of spot-causing bacteria. Cleanse your face and neck morning and evening using a mild cleanser such as our Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. Massage the purifying cream with your fingertips onto dry skin, soak the pure muslin cloth in warm water and use it to gently wipe away the cleanser.
  • Gently pat your skin with a soft, clean towel, letting it dry naturally before applying any topical medication (if prescribed).
  • Every skin type needs the protection of a moisturiser. If it's oily choose a product specifically formulated for oily, combination and problem skins. Our After-Shaving Moisturiser is a light, easily-absorbed formula that contains self-heal, a natural remedy for skin irritation, protective natural source vitamin E and borage to help calm and moisturise.
  • Be gentle to your skin - try not to scrub or over-treat it by using harsh products in an attempt to eradicate oiliness. Stripping the skin can aggravate it further and upset its natural balance, often triggering increased levels of sebum which may lead to more spots.

It's advisable to seek the advice of your GP or pharmacist before using skincare products in conjunction with topical medication. Do not suddenly stop using your prescribed treatment.

Did you know?

Although acne sufferers should avoid excessively hot and humid conditions, it's thought that a little bit of sun can be good for acne-prone skin. The ultraviolet light activates chemicals in the body that kill bacteria; these rays are also slightly anti-bacterial and in small doses are good for boosting the immune system. Just make sure you protect your skin adequately with a sunscreen that uses mineral reflectants rather than 'chemical' filters. Mineral reflectants such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide provide a physical block and are known to be better tolerated by the skin, therefore causing less sensitivity.

Want to know more?

  • The Acne Support Group (ASG)
    PO Box 9 Newquay
    Cornwall TR9 6WG
    Tel: 0870 870 2263
    An excellent charity that is dedicated to demystifying the condition and lobbying on behalf of acne and rosacea sufferers. It contains good information on acne and for a nominal fee you can join and receive newsletters containing all the latest details on the condition.
  • The British Association of Dermatologists
    4 Fitzroy Square
    London W1T 5HQ
    Tel: 0207 383 0266
    Fax: 0207 388 5263
    www.bad.org.uk This very informative site is put together by UK dermatologists to offer a wide range of information leaflets on many skin conditions including acne, as well as details of how to get professional help and listings of patient support groups.
  • The Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine
    Office 5 1 Exeter Street
    Norwich NR2 4Q
    Tel: Tel:0160 362 3994
    Fax: 0160 366 7557
    www.rchm.co.uk This non-profit making organisation has an excellent website. A full list of registered practitioners in the UK can also be obtained by sending a S.A.E plus a cheque for £3.00.
  • The National Institute of Medical Herbalists
    Elm House 54 Mary Arches Street
    Exeter EX4 3BA
    Tel: 0139 242 6022
    Fax: 0139 249 8963
    www.nimh.org.uk The UK's leading professional organisation for herbal medicine practitioners offers a free register of members. Either call or visit their website.

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