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Acne is an inflammatory condition
of the skin marked by pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.
It is caused by a problem with the sebaceous glands, the
oil-secreting glands that lubricate and moisturise the skin.
These are found in large numbers on the face, chest, and
back. As a result of hormone shifts associated with adolescence,
(which is why it is common in teenagers) there is an increase
in the number of sebaceous glands, with a consequent increase
in the production of oil, or sebum. Normally, sebum passes
through glandular canals to the surface of the skin, but
when the glands are suffering hormonal overload, an obstruction
or hardening of the oils in a glandular canal can occur,
preventing sebum from reaching the surface of the skin and
resulting in a blackhead or whitehead.
Acne sufferers deserve serious attention and prompt intervention
in order to avoid the pockmarks and scars that can occur
when the condition is untreated or treated incorrectly.
*Acne is so common among teenagers it should be considered
normal, concluded a recent Australian study. Researchers
found 90 per cent of 16 to 18 year olds had clinically confirmed
acne, a quarter had scarring and nearly half reported negative
feelings because of their spots. As if that isn't bad enough,
the most effective treatment to date, Roaccutane (Accutane)
(link here), is no longer being prescribed by some doctors
following reports of depressive illness and even suicides
among users.
* British Vogue (June 1999) |
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The exact cause of acne is not known, but
factors that contribute to the condition include heredity,
oily skin, androgens and hormone imbalances. Other factors
are allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs (especially
steroids, lithium, oral contraceptives), exposure to industrial
pollutants, the use of unsuitable cosmetics, monthly menstrual
cycles and excessive exfoliation and rubbing of the skin.
*A diet high in sugar and highly refined carbohydrates and
low in protein and vegetables is often a contributing factor
to acne. High levels of sugar weaken the immune system,
enabling bacteria in the skin to spread. In addition, a
vegetarian diet is more likely than a meat-based one to
be high in essential fatty acids and low in saturated fats.
It maybe of interest to note that acne is almost unknown
in subsistence societies of the Amazon and Papua New Guinea,
where refined starches are not eaten. The Inuit of Alaska
never got spots until they adopted a western diet of refined
carbohydrates.
(Source: A study at the Colorado State University). |
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Acne
is the most common skin disease in the United States …
4 million adults are suffering from it. |
It is important to realise that most often
acne is not a result of poor hygiene. All the washing and
scrubbing in the world will not alter the underlying condition.
As previously mentioned, acne can be aggravated by many
commonly used cosmetic products, which clog the pores from
the outside. Lack of sleep, not drinking enough water (link
to water) an unbalanced diet, skipping meals, too much caffeine
etc, in general will all affect the skin’s condition.
During stressful periods, there is more oil production and
more hormonal fluctuation. It you have a predisposition
to acne stress can make it worse or cause a flare-up. It
is estimated that 50 percent of professional women –
who experience a great deal of stress juggling work and
family – experience outbreaks triggered by stress.
When people are going through problems in their life, acne
becomes exacerbated. Try to reduce stress by incorporating
stress management techniques – meditation, yoga. Ensure
you get sufficient exercise. Walking, swimming, cycling
can help relieve anxiety and tension.
If there seems to be no “reason” for acne occurring,
it is likely to be genetic. Whatever the cause, the Sher
System is highly effective in treating acne. |
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Supplements can be very helpful. In particular,
Evening Primrose Oil, Vitamins A, B-complex, C (with bioflavinoids),
Vitamin E and Zinc. (Take as directed by a practitioner).
As an alternative to taking these supplements, The Sher
System has recently launched a Skin Support Formula, which
provides a carefully balanced program of vitamins, minerals,
herbs and probiotics for full skin support.
It works by helping to maintain normal digestion, blood
sugar balance, skin nourishment and good elimination.
(link to Skin Support Formula).
*(The Complete Self-Care Guide to Holistic Medicine
(Putnam 1999 Robert S Ivker, D.O.President of the American
Holistic Medical Association) |
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