Acne

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The bane of many a teenager and unfortunately a few adults as well.
Hormone changes in adolescence mean come what may, some teenagers will
suffer.

There are a plethora of skin care products out there, but keeping it
simple and natural would seem to be the best bet. Witch Hazel does
the trick for any spots I get from time to time. Using witch hazel as
a cleanser and also using a witch hazel spot remover is my strong
recommendation. But a word of warning witch hazel can if used
frequently dry the skin so find a product that also contains a
moisturiser. Tea Tree oil is also recommended for treating spots and
it it is well known for its anti-bacterial properties. You can also
try applying lemon juice to the affected areas, but you will need to
dilute.

Skin care products containing parabens have been attracting a lot of
controversy because of a link with oestrogen and breast cancer. At
the moment there is no conclusive scientific evidence to confirm a
link but you may wish to avoid products containing them. Similarly
you may wish to avoid products containing petro-chemicals or
chemicals. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is
widely used in soap and skin care products, although it is known it
blocks the skin pores and, like parabens, has been linked with cancer.

My philosophy on all things health related is to play safe. The body
is very chemically finely tuned and it does not take much to affect
its balance. Science is far from understanding the effect chemicals
can have on the body so why take unnecessary risks. Shop around and
buy natural products but be aware that such is the nature of the
commercial world, that the word natural is highly abused. Most
products will contain some natural ingredients. Be selective and
avoid the ones that also contain parabens, chemicals and petro-
chemicals.

Many doctors will prescribe antibiotics for severe cases of acne but
given the over use of these and the effect they have on the bacterial
flora of the intestines I would not recommend their use. However, if
you are very traumatised by your condition and psychologically cannot
cope, then I would suggest you follow your doctor's advice. Once the
course of antibiotics is over be sure to repopulate your intestinal
flora by taking a good probiotic product.

Paying attention to diet is also highly recommended. Lots of fresh
veg and fruit, eat unrefined carbohydrates (wholemeal bread and pasta,
brown rice, oats etc.) and drastically cut down on fatty, sugary foods
and alcohol. A general detox could also be beneficial. Drink plenty
of water with added lemon juice plus the following herbs: -

Milk thistle - helps the liver in its detoxing function

Raspberries - the juice is believed to cleanse the digestive system.
Additionally it might be helpful in relieving rheumatism, indigestion
and diarrhoea.

Watercress - apparently speeds up the bodies detox processes.

Cayenne pepper - an internal disinfectant, with added bonus that it
speeds up metabolism, so is great for burning fat.

Black Cohosh - it is claimed neutralizes toxins in the blood.

Burdock root - a blood purifier.

Red Clover - another blood purifier. Also is a tonic for the nerves.

Slippery Elm - absorbs toxins and helps with excess stomach acid.

Dandelion - helps the livers detoxifying processes.

That's all for now, but there are other useful herbs out there. If you
know of any let us know.

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