Special Considerations for Blemished Skin

Chronic blemishes/scarring, whiteheads, or blackheads, overactive oil glands.

Blemished skin needs individual attention. There is no one way to deal with it. We would recommend seeing a herbalist or homeopath.

The sun can be therapeutic for blemished skin but only in moderate doses. Too much will aggravate oil production and can cause burning, which will trap oils underneath the top layer of skin.

Repeated taking of antibiotics can develop acne because of the disruption of the 'good' and 'bad' bacteria in the intestines. If this occurs take a probiotic supplement and minimize sweet foods to help re-establish the beneficial intestinal flora. Prolonged antibiotic use should be avoided wherever possible.

Bowel sluggishness or constipation can cause skin breakouts. Seek herbal or homeopathic help and increase water and fibre intake.

Chinese medicine maintains that the area of the face where blemishes have appeared is a clue to internal imbalances:

• Forehead = intestines 
• Cheeks = lungs   
• Around the mouth = reproductive area
• Between eyebrows = liver
• Shoulders = digestive system

Acne must be approached with internal considerations such as diet, vitamins, and exercise, as well as external care. Creams and lotions will only be one part of the solution.

Do not use abrasive sponges or exfoliating cleansers which can be irritating and can spread infection.

Smoking aggravates a blemished condition  because it restricts the circulation of vital nutrients to the skin and slows the healing process.

Do not cover blemished skin with make up on a regular basis if at all possible because it can clog the pores, irritate the skin and make the condition worse.

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