Penny Povey

Acne Vulgaris

This is a chronic inflammation of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands on the face, neck, chest and upper back. It is characterised by blackheads and whiteheads and there may also be nodules and cysts. Acne tends to be more common and worse in males and typically begins in puberty. Sebaceous glands are found in the highest concentration on the face and upper trunk which explains why these are the areas worst affected by acne. Androgens cause an increase in the sebum production. Although acne is considered to be androgen dependent, it is not necessarily the case that there is an excess of circulating androgens. Rather, what seems to occur is that the skin of some people shows a greater than normal activity of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase which serves to convert testosterone to the more potent dihydrotestosterone which then activates the development of acne.

It is possible to develop acne as a result of exposure to certain substances such as steroid drugs, lithium, machine oils, coal tar derivatives and chlorinated hydrocarbons. There is frequently a pre-menstrual flare up of acne, or a few pimples may occur pre-menstrually even in women who do not normally suffer from acne. This is a reflection of the hormonal component of the problem.

 

Recommendations

Evidence has shown that a cleansing and detoxification program will be effective in removing bowel toxins, decongestion of the liver and drawing toxins away from the skin. The maintenance diet should emphasise fresh fruits and vegetables with meats and saturated fats being kept to a minimum. Any meat or dairy products taken should be from an organic source to avoid the unnecessary ingestion of artificial hormones. All refined sugars should be avoided and also the caffeine foods such as coffee, tea, chocolate and cola.

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