Homeopathy takes a whole body approach to health. For those looking for a homeopathic remedy for acne, it's important to realize that treatments vary from one individual to another because treatment is based on stimulating the body to heal itself. This means that the treatment that worked for your friend or cousin may not be the remedy for acne in your case because each person is unique right down to the reasons behind their acne.
Homeopathy Remedies and Regulations
While some people may view homeopathic treatments as "home remedies," according to the law they do follow guidelines set down by the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States. This means they are regulated in the same manner as over-the-counter and non-prescription remedies, but because there are little or no active ingredients, homeopathic remedies are not put through the same type of safety and testing procedures as their over-the-counter counterparts. As long as the homeopathic remedy claims to treat minor health problems or "self-limiting" conditions like acne or a cold, they can be sold without a prescription. However, the FDA does require they meet certain requirements. Labels must include:
- At least on major indicator as to the purpose of the product (such as treatment for acne)
- Dilution
- List of ingredients
- Safety instructions
Homeopathic Remedy for Acne
When taking a homeopathic approach to clear up acne, a homeopathic practitioner takes the patient's entire health into consideration to discover the underlying cause of the acne. Treatment is more than a topical product used on the skin's surface because holistically acne is viewed as an internal disorder that manifests itself externally with skin eruptions. A homeopathic approach works to stimulate the natural healing capabilities of the body to help clear up acne from the inside out. This is accomplished by administering therapeutic doses of diluted substances; a method originally introduced at the end of the 18th century by a German physician by the name of Samuel Christian Hahnermann.
List of Acne Homeopathic Remedies
- Antimonium tartaricum: Antimonium tartaricum is also known as tartar emetic. This salt of antimony and potash compound, is most often recommended for patients who suffer with large, painful pustules or inflammatory acne.
- Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is used for infrequent acne breakouts as well as for other skin conditions including eczema and some scalp conditions.
- Hepar sulphuris calcareum: This remedy includes equal parts of oyster shell and flowers of sulphur. It is thought to help the skin heal and repair itself.
- Pulsatilla: Pulsatilla is derived from the Windflower and is used to help treat dry cracked skin, rosacea rash, and acne breakouts associated with menstrual cycle.
- Silicea: The silicea remedy is prepared by mixing extract of silicic acid (powdered form) in water. It is thought to heal skin inflammation, blemishes, scars and dandruff along with a host of other ailments. Silicic acid is found naturally in herbs such as horsetail.
- Sulfur: Sulfur is an ancient acne medication. It is found in skincare products used to treat acne including face cleansers, soaps, masks and moisturizers. Some products with higher sulfur content require a prescription.
Lifestyle to Better Skin
While acne is a condition associated with adolescence, it is also a problem that afflicts adults. Reasons for acne breakouts vary but can be triggered by stress, hormone fluctuations, and exposure to environmental triggers including certain foods. When it comes to dietary changes, your homeopathic doctor will help you gain awareness as to what foods to avoid. These usually include:
- Artificial sweeteners
- Butter
- Cheese
- Chocolate
- Iodized salt
- Meat
- Refined foods
- Soft drinks
- Sugar
- White flour products
Supplements Used to Treat Acne
Along with the remedies listed above, some holistic doctors recommend supplements and herbs to promote healthier skin. These include:
- Beta carotene
- Brewers yeast
- Echinacea and goldenseal tea
- Lecithin
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
Seek Professional Help
If you suffer with acne and are desperate to see it gone, it can be tempting to treat yourself. However, a professional homeopath is trained to understand the whole person and takes into consideration more than your problem skin. Instead, they will approach your skin's health from physical and mental standpoints. Make an appointment to set up a consultation. This gives them an opportunity to examine your acne and to ask you questions. Don't be surprised when they ask about things such as your interests, hobbies, things you dislike, how well you sleep, what's going on in your life currently and more. With the whole-person approach, your homeopathic doctor or dermatologist will help you learn to manage stress and give you tips on how to care for your skin from the inside out.
