Natural treatments to help acne sufferers

Around 9% of the world’s population suffer from acne. Although it does not, at first sight, present a serious risk to general health, acne can nevertheless be very painful. Depending on its severity, it can be both physically and psychologically painful. The scars caused by a strong inflammatory response can be very difficult to reduce: ‘Prevention is better than cure’. That’s why it’s important to support people suffering from this skin condition.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles are blocked by excess sebum and an accumulation of dead skin cells. Acne can take the form of whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Common among teenagers, it can affect people of any age. It generally appears on the face, neck, arms and trunk.

Possible causes

The pathogenesis of acne is multifactorial. Some people develop acne as a result of repeatedly eating certain foods. Others develop acne as a result of excessive snacking, which can lead to hyperglycaemia, encouraging bacterial proliferation in the epidermis. Constipation, hormonal changes, repeated stress and various deficiencies in zinc or fatty acids, for example, can all contribute to the development of acne.

Impact on mental health

The psychological and social impact of acne is considerable. It affects teenagers at an important time when they are developing their self-confidence.
During this period, peer acceptance is very important for teenagers. Unfortunately, there is often a strong link between physical appearance and attraction.

In fact, the impact of acne on the psyche can have a number of consequences: problems with self-confidence and self-image, for example, or a tendency towards isolation and school phobia.

Acne and dysmorphophobia

Dysmorphophobia is a mental health problem. People suffering from this imbalance cannot help but focus on one or more defects or imperfections in their physical appearance. This ‘flaw’ may seem minor or not even be perceived by others. However, the person concerned feels so bad that they avoid many social situations.

Although their acne is mild, some people unfortunately suffer from dysmorphophobia. Even when they don’t have a real outbreak of pimples, they have the impression of being riddled with acne. In fact, they may experience several of the psychological and social symptoms listed above.

Is herbal medicine effective in treating acne naturally?

The use of phytotherapy to treat acne has been studied in various research studies, highlighting the benefits of certain plants and natural compounds.

1. Cell Line and Experimental Studies Research has shown that several plant compounds, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils, phenols and tannins, are effective against acne. For example, diterpenic acids and phenylpropanoid glycosides have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities in animal studies. Camellia sinensis extract has also been found to have 5α-reductase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory properties, while Commiphora mukul oleoresin shows an antibacterial effect.
2. Herbal Therapy vs Conventional Treatments A comparative study examined the efficacy of herbal extracts (tea tree oil) versus 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, commonly used in acne treatments. These studies help to assess the viability of herbal treatments by comparing them with conventional options.
3. Role of Green Tea in Acne Treatment Green tea, specifically the epigallocatechin-3-gallate found in Camellia sinensis, has been the subject of several studies. A systematic review and meta-analysis of various randomised clinical trials were carried out to assess the effects of green tea on acne vulgaris. In fact, topical application of green tea extract is beneficial for the treatment of acne without causing any significant adverse effects.
4. Aloe vera as a complement to conventional treatments The efficacy of aloe vera gel, used in combination with tretinoin (a conventional acne treatment), was tested in a randomised, double-blind study. The aim of this approach was to explore how natural treatments can complement standard therapies for greater efficacy. The study concluded that the combined use of topical retinoids (treatments applied directly to the skin) and Aloe vera gel was well tolerated by patients and significantly more effective than the use of topical retinoids with a placebo product for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris. In short, the addition of Aloe vera gel to the usual retinoid treatment considerably improves its effectiveness in combating acne.

These studies highlight the growing importance of plant-based treatments in the management of acne, offering alternatives or complements to conventional therapies. They highlight the potential of natural remedies, while underlining the need for further research to gain a more in-depth understanding of their efficacy and safety.

Natural treatments to support acne sufferers

Here are some naturopathic tips you can use to cure your acne:

1. Black radish: Rich in sulphur, black radish helps to detoxify the liver.
2. Seafood: Rich in trace elements, particularly zinc, seafood contributes to endocrine and immune system balance.
3. Dandelion: A gentle colon regulator, dandelion helps to balance bowel movements.
4. Offal: An excellent source of vitamin A, necessary for detoxification.
5. Essential fatty acids: Genuine skin protectors, they also have a very strong anti-inflammatory action.
6. Hops: Regulates the production of androgens, the male hormones responsible for the overproduction of sebum.
7. Lapacho: Lapacho, a South American plant, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that could help combat acne. It can be taken as an infusion or decoction. However, caution is advised due to possible side effects at higher doses. Always consult a health professional before starting any herbal treatment.
8. Clay application: Clay has absorbing and purifying properties that make it an ideal treatment for acne. It works deep down to remove excess sebum, impurities and toxins from the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of pimples and blemishes. In addition, clay has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the redness and irritation associated with acne. It can also help to tighten dilated pores, reducing sebum production and preventing future breakouts.

Is evening primrose oil effective for acne?

Yes, this plant oil can be effective for acne. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help calm the skin inflammation associated with acne and prevent bacterial infections. In addition, the essential fatty acids found in evening primrose oil can help regulate sebum production, which can also help reduce acne and blemishes. It’s important to note that results can vary from person to person and that evening primrose oil should be used regularly and in conjunction with a proper skincare routine to achieve the best results.

Basic acne treatment

• On an empty stomach: one scoop of Copper Gold Silver one phial of Zinc one phial of Desmodium
• Midday and evening: 20 to 25 drops of Burdock mother tincture diluted in a glass of water
• When the psyche is disturbed, take Lithium, Magnesium and Phosphorus, morning and evening.

Preventing acne

As well as natural treatments, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene and adopt healthy habits to prevent acne.

Skin care routines

To look after your skin and reduce the risk of acne, it’s important to follow a few key steps in your daily routine. Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and use skincare products that are suitable for your skin type.

When choosing a cleanser, look for gentle, soothing ingredients such as chamomile extract or aloe vera. Avoid cleansers containing irritants or artificial fragrances.

After cleansing, apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser to maintain your skin’s moisture balance. Don’t forget to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Avoid touching your face and popping pimples, as this can spread bacteria and make acne worse. Change pillowcases regularly and clean objects that come into contact with your face, such as glasses and mobile phones.

Diet

A healthy diet can play an important role in preventing and managing acne. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. Fruit and vegetables contain vitamins and antioxidants that can help protect the skin from oxidative damage and promote healing.

Limit dairy products, sugar and processed foods, which can contribute to acne by increasing inflammation and upsetting hormonal balance. Try to include foods rich in omega-3, such as oily fish and nuts, as they have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne.

Drinking enoughwater is also crucial to maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Water helps to eliminate toxins from the body and keep the skin hydrated.

Read more:

1. Fitoterapia. 2012 Dec;83(8):1306-17. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2012.03.026. Epub 2012 Apr 10.
   Phytother Res
2. . 2021 Jan;35(1):374-383. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6809. Epub 2020 Aug 19.
3. J Dermatolog Treat. 2014 Apr;25(2):123-9. doi: 10.3109/09546634.2013.768328. Epub 2013 May 6.
   Effect of Aloe vera topical gel combined with tretinoin in treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind, prospective trial
4. J Cosmet Dermatol . 2019 Dec;18(6):1767-1775. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12962. Epub 2019 Apr 23.
   A comparative study on the efficacy of herbal extracts vs 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris