Acne is widespread among teenagers, although a smaller percentage of adults are also known to suffer the affliction. Common acne is characterized by the presence of one or all of the following: whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustule or pimples seen on the face, chest, back, shoulders and neck. Acne usually begins as a mild skin rash along with discomfort, itching and the appearance of pustules that develop into whiteheads of pus. Squeezing and touching will precipitate spots that are further worsened by various soaps/creams, often infecting the area.

Despite the fact that the skin is the largest of our organs, we tend not to think of it as an organ at all. It is connected directly to the brain, and one key function of the skin is to maintain body temperature. Waste products not eliminated in sputum, urine or faeces are eliminated through the skin.

Thousands of oil glands can be found in the skin. The oil glands produce sebum, needed to help the skin stay moisturized and effective in its role as a protective barrier. The face, especially the nose/cheeks and forehead, have the highest density of oil glands. The back and mid-chest are known to have the largest oil glands. This explains why acne most commonly affects the face, chest and back. Acne vulgaris is also referred to as acne lesions. (The word “lesion” refers to physical changes in body tissue brought about by a disease or condition.)

Sebaceous glands are primarily dormant before puberty. During puberty, however, male hormones such as androgens stimulate sebaceous glands into action, producing the natural body oil known as sebum. Acne occurs when there is excessive production of sebum. This excessive output results in clogged skin pores, which in turn attract dirt and bacteria, forming the basis of acne. Teenage acne is almost invariably caused by an increase of hormones during puberty. As in so many medical conditions, though, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause, which is usually a combination of various factors. The following risk factors contribute to acne:

• Cosmetics, especially oil-based products, can clog additional skin pores.


• Emotional stress is a known factor behind acne.


• Personal habits such as picking pimples and over-cleansing, including the use of acid soaps


• Hormonal changes caused, for example, by pregnancies or pre-menstrual periods.

Gender and genetic differences explain why more boys than girls have acne. The hormone testosterone is converted to DHT (dihydrotesterone), which stimulates sebaceous glands to produce extra sebum (it also plays a role in prostate cancer by enlarging the prostate gland). Pregnant women are also known to suffer hormonal acne during their third trimester. Environmental conditions such as pollution and temperature are also risk factors. Drugs such as antibiotics, steroids or oral contraceptives have also been known to trigger acne. Though diet has not been medically identified as a cause of acne, supplementation of various vitamins and minerals, namely zinc and vitamins A, D, C and E are recommended as treatment. In other words, eat more fruit and vegetables.

Cleanliness is important in reducing bacteria at the skin level, but the following steps are also important in preventing or ameliorating acne outbreaks. First, drink a minimum of two litres of water daily. Water therapy is important; you have to stay hydrated enough to reduce clogged-up skin pores. And, as we’ve already mentioned, maintain a healthy diet.

Some beauty products are known to aggravate the skin, even directly contributing to acne. Also keep in mind that over-cleansing your skin may irritate and make the acne worse. Don’t use cosmetics to hide blemishes; this will only make things worse by further blocking skin pores. Instead of using chemical-based products, try using more natural products as facial washes. A few drops of tea-tree oil in a bowl of water can be effective. It’s important to develop good habits that assist in keeping skin pores clear. Try not to leave make-up on your skin when you sleep. Never prick or pick your pimples; this will only further infect them.

It’s important to encourage efficient lung, colon and kidney function, these being other organs of elimination beyond the skin, which is the largest eliminatory organ. The sebaceous glands of the skin are affected by hormonal disturbances, bad breathing habits and colon problems such as constipation. The skin absorbs whatever we apply to it, including cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, sun lotion and perfumes.

A final suggestion: the three-day grape diet makes a wonderful skin cleanser.

Garnett B Symonds DO. LCSP. D.Hom (Med) HMD, is an osteopath and a fellow of the British Institute of Homeopathy. Tel: 076-388 524 Email: info@garnettsymonds.com