Pimples
Pimples are a symptom of acne, but are not the same condition.
Pimples are defined by clogged pores and may come in the form of spots, blackheads or whiteheads. They’re most common during adolescent years, but can continue into adulthood.
Having spots can also cause mental health concerns, like anxiety, depression, isolation and more. Luckily, there are effective ways to treat pimples, especially in the world of natural health.
If you have spots or pimples, our naturopaths and homeopaths can help find the root cause and treat it at its origin to prevent further breakouts.
Pimples may occur when your skin produces too much oil, or when dead cells or bacteria build up in your pores.
They aren't usually caused by poor hygiene and doctors are unsure why some people develop pimples and others don't.
Risk factors for pimples include hormonal imbalances, a family history of spots, digestive problems, chronic infections and suppressed immunity.
Our naturopaths and homeopaths can help get to the root cause of your pimples so you can achieve smooth, spot free skin.
A visit to your GP will result in a treatment that usually includes topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, and topical retinoids; or oral medications, such as oral retinoids, systemic antibiotics, or hormonal therapy.
Roaccutane has been associated with later development of Crohn's Disease and other illnesses, so it should be avoided if possible.
Cosmetic skin treatments such as dermabrasion and laser treatment can also be used to treat acne and its scars.
The Naturopathic Approach
A naturopathic doctor will support and guide you with recommended treatments, remedies and supplements as well as any relevant diagnostic testing to heal the cause of your spots. We look to treat the underlying cause of pimples, such as dietary factors, allergies, problems with digestion, nutritional deficiencies and hormonal imbalances.
Many supplements and food recommendations are available to treat dietary or nutritional deficiencies that can contribute to spots, including probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, sulphur, beta carotene, and selenium. Vitamin supplements include Vitamins B5 and B6, and Vitamins A, C, and E.
Sometimes pimples can be caused by an unclean colon. The detoxification process used to treat this condition is usually successful in clearing the skin within three months.
Other alternative treatments for spots include herbal medicine, especially to cleanse the colon and lymph systems, or to balance hormones (for PMS-related acne). Tea tree oil is used to manage the problem topically.
The Homeopathic Approach
Homeopathy is another popular holistic system of medicine for treating pimples. Remedies are selected based upon the individual and the presenting symptoms and types of spots. The aim of homeopathy is to not only treat the symptoms but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. The only way complete health can be regained is by removing all the signs and symptoms from which the client is suffering.
Our practitioners will also review a client’s cleansing routines and make recommendations. Though cleaning the skin properly is important, over-washing (more than twice daily) can strip the skin's oils, causing them to be over-produced. Some washes include mild tea tree preparations, which can be useful as a light and natural antiseptic.
Clients will be advised to stop using hair oil as well as any oil-based make-up, as it can aggravate the condition.
What’s next?
If you’d like help preventing spots and pimples, we can help.
Find the support you need with our naturopaths. Connect with us below, and we'll be in touch shortly.