Linked to hormonal activity, acne mainly manifests itself during adolescence, disappearing or becoming chronic by adulthood. Although in most cases only the face is filled with pimples, other body parts, such as the back or torso, may also be affected. Fortunately, acne can be treated by resorting to cosmetic, pharmaceutical or homoeopathic products.
Without distinction between men and women, hormonal changes catalyse the excessive secretion of the male hormones known as androgens. They are secreted by the ovaries in women and by the testicles in men. This results in huperseborrhoea, that is an increased production of sebum in the hair follicles located under the epidermis. This causes hyperkaratosis. The level of keratin, which is produced in the hair follicles, then becomes too abundant and clogs up the pores, leading to their inflammation, hence the appearance of acne and blackheads.
Thus, acne is mostly caused by hormonal factors, which explains its appearance in two distinct periods of a person’s life; during puberty when acne vulgaris develops and around forty, when acne rosacea can manifest itself. Stress, exposure to the sun, fatigue, or manipulation of the comedones (blackheads) can aggravate the disease and provoke secondary infections. Using cosmetic products that are not suitable for the skin and taking certain medications can also favour the appearance of acne. On the other hand, homoeopathic remedies do not produce such effects.
Common acne mostly appears at puberty and is characterized by red pimples, pustules and blackheads present on the cheeks, face, chin and sometimes on the chest, neck and back. Depending on the skin’s characteristics, acne can last from several months to several years. Indeed, acne does not necessarily disappear in late adolescence and it may even become chronic in some women. The pathology either improves or gets worse, depending on the hormonal changes. In the most serious cases, acne is accompanied by itching and burning.
Acne rosacea, also known as “rosacea” or “adult acne”, is also characterized by the appearance of small red bumps (papules) and redness located on the chin, nose and cheeks. Often, these papules are also accompanied by blackheads, pustules, a pale complexion, oily skin and abundant sweating. This type of acne, mostly chronic, tends to worsen during periods of menstruation, during pregnancy and at the approach of menopause in women.
Acne can be treated by several homoeopathic products, such as Asterias Rubens which is specially adapted to teenagers who have a lymphatic constitution. Thuja occidentalis is effective in treating acne that occurs mainly in the lower part of the face (chin and around the lips), on hyper sensitive and oily skin. However, for those who have dry and rough skin, Berberis aquifolium seems to be the most suitable kind of remedy.
Antimonium crudum is used to treat acne that is accompanied by itching and burning, especially for people who have an unbalanced diet (excess of alcohol and carbohydrates), and suffer from gastrointestinal and emotional problems. Regarding Arsenicum Iodatum, it is used to calm the itching that often goes with acne, but is rather indicated for apathic and skinny patients, who are naturally anxious and nervous.
There are many available homoeopathic products that can be used for treating acne rosacea. Among them, Psorinum not only fights off the appearance of pimples but also limits the itching and sweating caused by the excess sebum. Taking 5 granules of Sanguinaria canadensis 9 CH daily is also effective for fighting off acne rosacea, all the while being suitable for those suffering from hormonal disorders at the approach of menopause or menstruation. This especially concerns patients whose menses are not very abundant or who experience poor blood flow. It is possible to complete the treatment by taking 5 granules of Carbo animalis 5 CH per day.
For those who suffer from acne during periods of fatigue and stress, Sabina is the most recommended form of treatment. It is also adapted for hypochondriacs. However, Sulphur is also an effective remedy for treating chronic acne, and is particularly indicated for people prone to gastrointestinal problems and constipation. The same goes for Belladonna, which is well-suited to people of restless nature and who have a dry and warm skin.
Whether it is used for common acne, acne rosacea or to get rid of blackheads, Selenium metallicum 9 CH is strongly recommended. Take 5 granules a day, along with Eugenia jambosa 5 CH (same dosage) to eliminate blackheads. Nevertheless, it is necessary to take 2 granules of Kalium bromatum per day when the comedones become infected and start to itch and burn. In this case, it may also be necessary to take 5 granules of Sulfur iodatum 15 CH daily to reduce the inflammation.
Acne also leaves scars that be treated with homoeopathy. In that regard, one should take 2 granules of Antimonium tartaricum 9 CH and Graphites 15 CH daily. The first is suitable for treating small scars while the second reduces the size of large swollen scars. Associated with Calendula (15 drops to dilute in a quarter glass of water), both of these products help you recover a healthy and radiant skin.
Homoeopathy is effective for treating acne. However, in some cases, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist. Indeed, if the patient suffers from cystic acne or if large acne scars appear, seeking medical attention becomes mandatory. The same goes for those whose acne problems lead to psychological complexes, a type of situation that is frequently observed among teenagers.
Good to know: Homoeopathy is effective for treating acne. Indeed, apart from reducing surface imperfections on the face and body, it also affects the hormones and reduces stress as well as other factors responsible for acne.
