What have you been told about how to get rid of acne? Were you told it was because of bad hygiene or just wash your face more often? At the Neeley Center for Health, we have some information you might find interesting. We will look at the treatments of western medicine versus Traditional Chinese Medicine for acne treatments.

Acne affects 85 to 100% of the population in both men and women. Most common around the time of puberty, but can stretch into the mid to late 20’s. ·
Though the causes are unknown, it is believed to be caused by a rise in androgen levels. Rising androgen levels increase oil production within the skin, therefore breaking down the cellular walls within the pores making it a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

Genetics are also believed to be a big factor in the development of acne caused by a rise of androgens in the body, which increases oil production; causing pustules, blackheads, and whiteheads to appear.

Can be embarrassing because of placement of breakouts. Breakouts can occur on the back, face, arms, and stomach

How to get rid of acne from a western medicine perspective

• Treatments are usually medication based
• Including antibiotics and Estrogen/Progesterone based oral contraceptives
• Lancing and extracting pustules and blackheads are also another effective ways to treat acne
• Popular prescribed medications are Accutane and Retin-A that are used to help decrease oil production and therefore decreasing the size of pores
• Because acne is caused by a change in hormones, addressing the hormonal issue is number one in treating acne
• Acne is NOT caused by bad hygiene
• Because it is caused by an overproduction of oils, constantly washing your face will not alleviate the issue
• Addressing the hormone imbalance and overall size of pores is a great combination in treating acne

TCM perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we treat symptoms. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs do not cover the symptoms; we get to the root of the symptoms, therefore treating the overall issue.

• We treat dampness and heat using malice and promoting homeostasis in the body. This includes acupuncture as well as Chinese herbs
• The technique  “Surround the Dragon” method if the breakouts are secluded to one specific area through the use of acupuncture
• Some suggested  types of topical treatments including pearl creams and seaweed soaps
• The use of Chinese herbs as well as probiotics are a powerful combination
• 999 creams is also another safe and effective anti-inflammatory cream that helps with the overall itching and pain induced by acne

Acne- look inside physically and emotionally

1. Doing a colon cleanse is helpful. Not just for acne but for the whole body. Cleanses will clear inflammation in your body, give you more energy and much, more. Cleansing helps with depression too!
2. There are different types and levels of cleanses. You can colon cleanse by receiving colonics as well as beginning with an herb cleanse. Start where you are comfortable.
3. Probiotics are essential. Take separately from the detox and cleansing formulas
4. Juicing green veggies is also an option for the colon

For those of you who are interested in the emotional expression of acne, you can get the book Feelings Buried Alive Never Die and it will give you a list of feelings associated with acne. You can use the list to journal and ask yourself honest questions. If you need help in this area you can go to our website and schedule an appointment with Cindy Neeley. She can help you clear the root of your conditions, physically and emotionally.

Conclusion

Though Western Medical treatments for managing acne are extremely effective, some people experience more side effects from the medication than they would hope to. With Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, our main goal is to clear the body of heat and bacteria all while returning the body to homeostasis (balance within the body).

If you have any questions feel free to give us a call. To book a session

In best health,

Mike and Cindy Neeley 256-716-4048

Find an acupuncturist in your area

TheNeeleyCenterforHealth@gmail.com