Contrary to popular belief acne doesn’t just affect teenagers it can impact people at various stages throughout their life such as times of
- Hormonal changes for example, during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum or as the menopause approaches. It is important to note that hormones often play a key role, especially androgens, which increase oil production.
- Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Stress impacts the skin due to increased perspiration and oil production, especially if there is a genetic pre-disposition to oiler skin.
- Low immunity - for example, following an illness which can also contribute to acne especially if there has been frequent courses of anti-biotics.
Types of acne
There are different types of acne which can vary from person to person but some of the common types are:-
- Blackheads & whiteheads – known as comedones usually caused by blocked pores with oil and dead skin
- Papules - small red bumps that can feel tender and sore to touch
- Pustules - similar to papules but also filled with pus
- Nodules & Cysts – these are deeper painful lumps under the skin, more likely to scar.
Conventional treatment
Conventional approaches may include:
- Over-the-counter creams or washes with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- Prescription antibiotics or retinoids.
- Hormonal treatments such as the pill or spironolactone.
These can be helpful, but they don’t always get to the root cause or clear up the problem plus they can come with side effects.
How homeopathy can support acne naturally
Homeopathy supports the body instead of fighting it and support the individual. When I work with someone with acne I look at the whole picture not just the skin. I will about diet, when the acne started and whether you are on any medication. I gather lots of information that will enable me to find a carefully chosen remedy that is best for you. It is very individualised. Also because the remedies work on the totality of symptoms they help to balance the whole system, helping to reduce inflammation while supporting any hormonal shifts.
There are many remedies that can help with the symptoms of acne. It is also important to consider supporting the liver, kidneys and bowels especially if there has been a lot of medication.
- Pulsatilla - for acne linked to hormonal changes, especially around periods, often with emotional sensitivity.
- Sulphur - for red, itchy, inflamed skin that feels worse from heat or washing.
- Hepar sulph - for painful, pus-filled spots that may be slow to heal.
- Natrum Mur - for oily skin and acne that worsens around menstruation, often with an emotional element of bottled-up feelings.
- Calc sulph - for stubborn, slow-healing spots and scarring tendency.
If acne is affecting your confidence or feels unmanageable, know that you don’t have to struggle. With a personalised approach, homeopathy can offer gentle yet effective support for both skin and hormones.
Alongside homeopathic support, lifestyle choices can also make a big difference to your skin and I’ve written a separate post on simple self-care tips that you can start today and you can read it here.
If you would like to work with me please book a free 20 minute call and we can go from there.