| - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - General Acne / Pimples Information
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when oil and dead skin cells get trapped in the pit of the hair follicle. Bacteria then begins to multiply and the area becomes inflamed producing pimples, blackheads and whiteheads on the face and upper body. Acne affects 80% of the population at some time between the age of 12 and 44, making it the most commonly treated skin condition. Although acne affects more than 20 million teenagers, it is appearing in adults in increasing numbers. Most acne cases are in the mild to moderate range, but severe acne can cause serious cosmetic problems, which often leads to emotional stress and low self-esteem.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Possible Causes of Acne / Pimples
In the surface of normal skin, sebum oil passes through the hair follicles to the skin surface. When acne is present, sebum (oil) which normally drains to the surface of the skin gets blocked and bacteria begins to grow. | 
The Beginning - Micromedone
Both whiteheads and blackheads start out as a microcomedone, which is the oil blocked in the hair follicle. The picture to the left is a microcomedone. After the microcomedone forms either a blackhead or a whitehead develops. | 
The Whitehead
A whitehead is formed when the trapped sebum and bacteria stays below the skin surface. | 
The Blackhead
A blackhead occurs when the trapped sebum and bacteria reaches the surface of the skin and opens up. |
Acne blemishes may be a message that something is wrong with your bodys chemistry, diet or method of skin care. Acne often occurs with pubescence (puberty) because the sebaceous glands are stimulated by androgens, the male hormones. These hormones stimulate the production of keratin protein and sebum oil. Sebum is often secreted in a faster rate then it can be excreted from the pores - creating an acne blemish - that supports bacteria growth and infection. Acne may be caused by hormonal changes or hormonal imbalances, heredity, oily skin, monthly menstrual cycle, candidiasis, allergies, stress, and the use of certain drugs, such as birth control pills or steroids. Acne may also be caused by allergic reactions to foods or dairy, a nutritional deficiency or a diet high in saturated fats, hydrogenated fats and animal fats. Other causes may include environmental conditions and pollutants that can clog the skin pores. Low body pH levels foster the growth of bacteria that may cause acne to develop (see Acidosis). Poor kidney and liver function may also play a role in acne development.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Possible Symptoms of Acne / Pimples
Acne appears as whiteheads and/or blackheads on the face, shoulders, neck and chest. Acne can range from mild to severe and can last a few weeks, months, years or can come and go throughout life. If a blemish becomes infected, a pimple can result. Severe acne can be painful and can cause serious scars if not treated.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Possible Lifestyle Changes for Acne / Pimples
A diet high in raw vegetables and fruits is beneficial. Avoid all forms of sugar, alcohol, butter, caffeine, cheese, chocolate, cocoa, cream, fat, fried foods, margarine, hydrogenated oils, soft drinks, iodized salt and processed foods. Sugar may impair immune function and promote the growth of bacteria and candida. To determine if you have an allergy that may be the cause of acne, eliminate food, such as dairy, for at least one month and slowly return it to the diet to see if the acne returns. The face should be kept free from oil by washing with an herbal cleanser or with lemon juice three times per day. Hair should be kept clean, as well. Friction makes pimples more likely to erupt, so not over-scrub or touch the affected area whenever possible. Avoid tight clothing and do not wear makeup whenever possible. When makeup must be worn, use water-based, hypoallergenic products without harsh chemicals, dyes or oils. Do not squeeze the spots as this may increase the growth and development of bacteria, worsening the condition and increasing the chance of scarring. Many dermatologists recommend 15 minutes of sunshine, regular exercise and sufficient sleep every day.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - In accordance with FDA regulation, we do not make any therapeutic claims for any Dietary Supplements in accordance with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. Beneficial Dietary Supplements
Alpha-Sterol helps open the blocked pores releasing the excess oils from the skin.
Tea Tree Oil is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic.
Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Vitamin B3 improves circulation to the surface of the skin surfaces and helps repair skin conditions.
Acidophilus Probiotics help replenish natural good body bacteria to reduce acne outbreaks.
Chromium Picolinate aids in reducing skin infections.
Colloidal Silver is considered a natural antibiotic and may be applied topically and taken internally.
Essential Fatty Acids helps keep skin smooth, repairs tissue and dissolves fatty deposits that block pores.
Potassium and Zinc helps heal tissue and prevent scaring.
Garlic improves blood circulation, destroys bacteria and enhances immune function.
Burdock Root, Dandelion Leaves, Milk Thistle and Red Clover are powerful blood cleansers when taken internally.
Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex Agnus Castus) may be taken internally to aid in reducing acne breakouts related to hormonal changes from PMS.
REFERENCES: Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition, Phyllis Balch, CNC; James F. Balch, M.D. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - -
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