Acne is not particularly itchy or painful, but can cause misery to the sufferer.  Although most teenagers do 'grow out of it' as they mature and the hormones find a balance, many people suffer from acne well into adult life.  Long-term acne causes scaring, lack of self-confidence and even depression.

Adult acne can be very difficult to treat and tends to return, especially in times of stress.  All skin problems are made worse by stress.  Acne is worse before and during exams and at other times of emotional stress.  Women can also find their skin is worse when the hormones are out of balance, due to fluctuations in the female cycle and the menopause.  To help balance female hormones try the herb Agnes Castus.

A balanced diet, excluding food sensitivities and adding zinc is useful for acne sufferers.  It is often true that animal fats and refined carbohydrates exacerbate acne, other foods that are known to cause reactions are: pepper, wheat, malt, oranges, alcohol, spicy food, cheese and fermented foods. 

Sometimes too much iodine or kelp in the diet aggravates acne.  Scrubbing the skin and using very hot water often worsens the condition too.  Use an unperfumed, PH balanced skin wash, rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.  Daylight, moderate sunshine (too much sunlight can make the skin break out more), fresh air, exercise, relaxation, meditation and drinking 2 litres a day of pure water all help. 

You could also try drinking Aloe Vera juice.