DEFINITION

Acne is a chronic inflammatory condition resulting in pustular skin eruptions (pimples) which occur most commonly on the face, neck, shoulders and upper back. The specific cause of Acne is unknown, however it is clear that the bacterial breakdown of the skin's natural oils into fatty substances is involved. These substances irritate the skin, causing lesions such as blackheads, pimples, whiteheads and cysts.

DESCRIPTION

Acne is classified as a disease, however, there is no single treatment which is effective in curing the problem in every case. This may be due to the number of factors which can contribute to the condition e.g., diet, work environment, cosmetics, hormones, smoking, alcohol, moving from a cool to a warm climate, food allergies, certain medications and in some people, stress, can be a trigger for Acne.
Acne often occurs in adolescents around the age of 13 years and usually improves in later teenage years as hormonal levels stabilise. It is estimated that 70% of the adolescent population will experience a type of Acne at some stage during the teenage years.
MANAGEMENT
PIMPLES AND BLIND PIMPLES: Try to keep the skin clean and free from oily build-up by using a cleansing foaming wash in the morning and evening. Using a mild astringent on the skin after cleansing will help to restore the acid/alkaline balance of the skin and constrict open pores which can become clogged with debris. It is best to use a light water-based moisturiser as a thicker, oil-based cream may block the pores and promote the formation of more pimples.
Medicated cover-sticks are available which contain an antibacterial compound to help conceal the pimple while helping it to heal. Try to avoid picking at pimples which does not allow the skin to heal and can lead to scarring. Exfoliating three times a week will help to keep the skin clean and free of blackheads which can develop into Acne.
BLACKHEADS: This requires regular, deep cleansing treatments to remove the blackheads. Wash the skin morning and night with a cleansing gel or foam. Exfoliate three times per week to help remove any oily build-up and penetrate the hair follicles to clean out any debris which may accumulate to form blackheads. Using a mild astringent toner helps to refine the follicles and tightens open pores on the skin. A light, water-based moisturiser will help to minimise the production of natural oils on the skin and if applied to damp skin, may help more oil-free moisture to be absorbed. A clay-based mask can be used twice a week to gently draw impurities out and improve the appearance of the skin.
CLOSED BLACKHEADS AND MILIA: It is not advisable to attempt to remove this type of blackhead at home as the skin surface needs to be pierced with a sterile needle to remove the contents. A Beauty Therapist is trained in the most effective techniques which help to reduce the risk of scarring. The same regular beauty routine that is suggested for blackheads can be followed.
CYSTS: This type of Acne often requires medical attention and prescription drugs e.g., antibiotics. It is best to keep the skin clean and free of oil build-up by following the above guidelines for pimple management. Do not attempt to remove or squeeze a cyst as it can be very painful and may result in scarring.
ACNE SCARS: There are a number of techniques which can help to reduce the visible signs of scarring. A Beauty Therapist will often use techniques such as a glycolic peels and special creams to help soften the scar tissue and improve the texture of the skin. A cosmetic surgeon can also offer a number of options to improve the appearance of scarring e.g., dermabrasion, laser resurfacing or collagen injections. Vitamins A, E and zinc may help to improve scarring. These nutrients can be taken internally and moisturising creams are available which contain vitamins A and E.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Your Doctor should be consulted if the Acne is severe, persistent and/or painful. Your Doctor may prescribe medication to help relieve the symptoms of Acne.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

1) Ask your Pharmacist or beauty consultant for advice about regular skin treatments to remove and reduce the occurrence of blackheads and pimples. Proper cleansing techniques can reduce the risk of scarring.
2) Follow the diet hints.
3) Your Pharmacist or beauty consultant can instruct you on how to use the cleansing and exfoliation treatments to keep the skin clean.
4) It is best to avoid using thick, oil-based creams and cosmetics if your skin is prone to Acne to help avoid clogging of the follicles which can cause Acne. Water-based products may be more suitable.
5) If your skin is sensitive, avoid using highly perfumed soaps and cosmetics. Ask your Pharmacist or beauty consultant about hypo-allergenic skin care ranges.
6) Consider some nutritional supplements if the diet is inadequate. Your Pharmacist can advise you about supplements which may help to improve the skin.

DIET HINTS

See the Acne Diet on the Healthpoint.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
- Vitamin A and zinc may help relieve acne.
- Vitamin B6 and folic acid may aid in acne related to menstrual dysfunction.
- An antioxidant or multivitamin may help if the diet is high in refined foods.
- Vitamin B2 supplementation may aid in acne rosacea.
- It is important to eliminate lymphatic congestion. Echinacea can be taken as a lymphatic herb or fresh lemon juice in water will also help clear lymphatic congestion.
- Ginkgo biloba may help stimulate blood circulation throughout the body, especially to the skin.
- Marshmallow has a soothing, healing and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.
- Calendula may have a soothing and antiseptic action on the skin. Calendula may also stimulate the lymphatic system.
- Sarsaparilla may help balance hormones and clean the blood.

NOTES

Information compiled by Miss Sue Freeborn, Dip BTh, Dip H Med, Principal of the College of Natural Beauty, Brisbane, Queensland.

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