Alternative Medicine for Acne

Alternative treatments are designed to strengthen the body's natural immune process and speed up healing. A number of different therapies and treatments can be used to treat mild, moderate and severe cases of acne. These may be a valuable alternative for those who are allergic to prescription medication for acne, or for individuals who prefer a holistic approach to skin management and wellness.

Individuals who do not get enough essential nutrients in their diets may experience acne flare-ups on a regular basis. Nutritional supplements that may help alleviate acne and acne symptoms include vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin B6, selenium and zinc. These nutrients directly effect hormone levels which are linked to cyclical breakouts. Other types of alternative medicine for managing acne may include aromatherapy facials and using aromatherapy products, detoxification diets to cleanse the colon, hydrotherapy to tighten up the pores and cleanse the skin, meditation to relieve stress and tension, thereby reducing the risk of acne breakouts and homeopathy treatments that involve sulfur for severe cases of acne.

Aromatherapy facials made with essential oils such as chamomile, junper and bergamot can help to calm down inflamed skin and reduce stress and tension overall. This may reduce the risk of acne flare-ups and make it easier for the skin to heal and recover naturally. Detoxification and fasting diets help to eliminate toxin buildup in the body which in turn may reduce inflammation. Detox diets are often used to treat a number of health conditions that are the result of inflammation, and a cleansing diet may help lower the risk of acne flare-ups and slow down the cycle of breakouts. Hydrotherapy treatments involve using cold water to calm down the skin and draw blood to the skin's surface; increased blood circulation may help with cellular repair, which can help speed up the healing process necessary for clearing up the skin. Meditation that slows down the heart rate and reduces blood pressure may also reduce the risk of acne flare-ups and promote a healthy healing process. Finally, homeopathy treatments that involve sulfur can help to reduce inflammation and cleanse the pores so that the skin is ready to heal.

Natural health practitioners, homeopathic doctors and organic skincare professionals can prescribe a customized acne treatment plan based on an individual's skin condition and goals. However, very few of these practitioners and doctors accept standard health insurance, so patients may be responsible for paying for the visit and all costs associated with the treatment program. Results are not guaranteed, and in many cases, the treatment program may be a trial and error process.

Some people with especially sensitive skin or cases of chronic acne may not be able to tolerate highly potent herbal tinctures and natural remedies for acne. Side effects of herbal medications and topical treatments may include allergic reactions, skin rashes, increased inflammation, excessively dry skin or excessive production of oil which only aggravates the acne problem. Acne sufferers considering taking alternative medicine for their skin condition may need to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to make sure they do not experience unwanted side effects.