Acne

WHAT IS ACNE?

Skin disease caused by changes in your philosebaceous units
Severe Acne is Inflammatory
Most common during adolescence affecting more than 85% of teenagers
Manifests itself through open-closed commedones, papules, pustules, nodules
Can cause scarring
Often a chronic condition which requires long term treatment

CAUSES OF ACNE

Develops as a result of blockage in follicles
Enlargement of sebaceous glands and increase in sebum production
Hereditary-runs in families
Stress
Hormonal activity
Use of Anabolic steroids
Exposure to certain Chemical compounds and Halogens

FACTORS WHICH INFLUENCE DEVELOPMENT OF ACNE DIET

High Carbohydrates/High GI
Low levels of VITAMINS A , E in bloodstream
HYGIENE: Not caused by dirt but build up oil in skin blocks pores

CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF ACNE

Open- Closed Commedones
Papules
Nodules
Cysts
Pustules

MOST PEOPLE SQUEEZE OR PICK SOME OF THEIR SPOTS!

May become secondarily infected and may also cause scarring.
No active acne spots only scratch marks, sores and scars.
More common in females than males
Can be a sign of stress or depression.

CHOICE OF CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS

Topical
UVB light
Hormonal therapy
Oral Antibiotics
Oral Retinoid

CHOICE OF CONVENTIONAL TOPICAL TREATMENT

Salicylic Acid
Topical Antimicrobial
Azelaic Acid
Benzoyl Peroxide
Topical Antibiotics
Topical Retinoid

CONTRAINDICATIONS & CAUTIONS FOR CONVENTIONAL TOPICAL TREATMENTS

Topical retinoids are contraindicated in pregnancy
Women of child bearing age should take contraceptive precautions
Direct sun-light & sun beds should be avoided

CONVENTIONAL SYSTEMIC TREATMENTS FOR ACNE

Antibiotics:
Tetracycline
Minocycline
Erythromycin
Doxycyline
Clindamycin
Hormone therapy: ( low progesterone)
Isotretinoin

HOW DO WE HELP WITH ACNE?

Each patient is completely assessed as we believe in an ‘inside-outside' comprehensive approach. Once we assess your condition we discuss with you our approach, which focuses on dietary advice and plant based formulations to balance possible underlying health conditions. We also suggest plant based custom formulations for your daily skin care regime.

SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME DEPENDS ON:

Comprehensive assessment
Regular review
Custom approach
Patient compliance

Acne is common and our customised approach been reviewed by many of our patients as very helpful . Acne needs time to heal and many months of conventional and/or plant based support may be required. Inflamed acne needs to be supported early to prevent scarring. Once the spots are gone, you may require a maintenance plan to keep the spots away.