Best Way to Treat Acne and Spots

Anyone who has ever suffered from acne will know that having a face full of spots is depressing and demoralising. Contrary to popular perception, this common skin condition doesn’t only affect teenagers: acne can flare up in the twenties, thirties and even during the menopause, triggered by stress and hormonal changes. If you have more than just a few spots, to prevent being left with permanent scars, seek help from your doctor or a dermatologist.

Treatment

• Diet: rethink your diet. Start by avoid fatty and sugary foods, citrus fruits, caffeine and alcohol. Drink plenty of water, eat garlic and onions (for their antibacterial properties) and high-fibre food (to prevent a sluggish digestive system).

• Skincare: keep your skin scrupulously clean and do not squeeze spots (unless they are ready to burst). Avoid overusing antibacterial products and spot remedies containing alcohol or hydrocortisone, because if the surface of the skin dries out, sebum will become trapped and the acne could get worse. Instead, use a gentle spot zapper. Try to leave your skin free to breathe, concealing only the spots and scars. If you must wear base, use a powder-based or oil-free foundation.
• Natural remedies: herbal and homeopathic remedies can be effective in treating mild acne. Natural supplements that are known to help acne include evening-primrose oil (to help balance hormones); echinacea, propolis, burdock, purple cornflower, vitamin C and zinc (to help fight infection); and vitamin B (to slow down the rate of oil production).

• Other treatments: acne which has been caused by a hormonal imbalance can respond positively to certain types of contraceptive pill such as Dianette. The vitamin-A-derived oral drug Roaccutane is claimed to cure acne permanently in as many as seventy per cent of cases. However, due to the risk of side effects -including extremely dry, flaky skin and liver damage – it is only used as a last resort to treat serious conditions. Antibiotics tackle acne superficially but, as they only suppress the problem rather than cure it, the spots normally return once the patient has stopped taking the drugs. Topical antibiotic lotions are an alternative, albeit temporary, solution. The topical vitamin-A derivative, Retin-A, which is also used to reverse sun damage, was originally used to treat acne. But, because it can cause peeling and irritation, some dermatologists are now reluctant to prescribe it for acne.