Acne
Also known as Acne Vulgaris. It is a skin condition that occurs when dead skin cells, bacteria and oils plug the hair follicles on the face. Hormones, high fat diet and too little vitamin A and zinc can also contribute. This leads to the presence of whiteheads, blackheads, large tender bumps and pus-filled pimples. Most teenagers at some point will struggle with it and it can continue well into adulthood. Some teenagers never outgrow it while others again only develop it in later life. Acne may occur not only on the face, but also the neck, shoulders, upper arms, back and chest. Chances are that you have either had, have or know someone that is struggling with acne. So far the medical world mostly treat with diet, medication and aesthetic medical procedures. The lists of holistic/esoteric treatments below are not meant to replace any form of medical treatment but rather to compliment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner.
Aromatherapy oils:
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Lavender and Tea Tree: These oils have bactericidal properties and can help soothe irritated skin.
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Bergamot: Use it as an astringent, but be cautious—it’s photosensitive, so limit its use to winter.
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Geranium: Balances sebum secretion and promotes healthy skin.
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Wheatgerm with Lavender and Neroli: Can reduce scarring.
Facial Oil Recipe (for night use):
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Base oil: Mix 20 ml apricot kernel oil with 5 ml jojoba oil.
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For Women: Add 5 drops Bergamot, 3 drops Geranium, and 4 drops Cedarwood.
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For Men: Add 4 drops Bergamot, 4 drops Lavender, and 4 drops Tea Tree.
Apply the facial oil after cleansing, ideally leaving it on overnight. Cover your pillow with an old, clean cloth to prevent oil staining. Alternatively, leave the oil on for about 10 minutes and then gently remove any excess.
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Flower Essences:
75ml Orange Flower water
25 ml Witch hazel
(10 drops Lavender if the skin is very inflamed)
OR
Rescue Remedy cream with crab apple for oversensitivity and cleaning toxins.
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Reflexology: The full Reflexology treatment should always be given. Using your thumb to put pressure on the reflex and move in a slow circular motion. Extra time could be spend on the following points:
1. Adrenal Glands
2. Thyroid
3. Circulation
4. Gallbladder
5. Liver
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Color therapy: Shades of blues and purples and very calming and cooling. These colors reduce stress and blue specifically has an antimicrobial effect.
Try the following:
1. Blue light therapy
2. Replace a bulb in your lamp with a blue one
3. Meditate on a blue candle
4. Wear a blue scarf or wrap
5. Solarized Water: Make yourself a glass full and mindfully sip it
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Sound Therapy: 285 HZ works excellent with skincare - YouTube is a great resource for music.
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Crystal Therapy:
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Amethyst
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Rose Quarts
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Selenite
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Light Therapy: Blue light has an anti-microbial effect
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Affirmations: Daily use of positive affirmations can be a powerful tool for mental well-being and could indirectly benefit skin health. Try the following to promote a positive mindset:
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Nutrition
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Herbs: Herbs that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties may help in treating acne. Try theses:
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witch hazel
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calendula
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chamomile
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lavender
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rosemary
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Yoga: Add these yoga poses to your daily practice as they can help in managing acne by promoting detoxification and hormonal balance:
Pitta: Red, angry pimples (triggered by stress and anger). Practice these calming poses
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bridge
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shoulder stand
Vata: Whiteheads, blackheads, and milia (digestive issues, fermentation in gut, constipation and toxins) Add these to your practice:
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forward bends
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gentle twists
Kapha: Deep-rooted acne (more hormone related)
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lion pose
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deep twists
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plough
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fish
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Visualization: Visualization techniques can be used to encourage a positive outlook on skin health. Visualizing clear and healthy skin can be a calming practice and may assist in stress management, which is beneficial for acne treatment.
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Biochemical Tissue Salts:
Calc Sulph
Kali Mur
Silica
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Remember, these practices should complement, not replace, medical advice and treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regiment.
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