Complementary, Holistic, and Integrative Medicine: Acne

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder that affects w70% to 87% of adolescents and young adults. (1) The pathogenesis of acne is multifactorial and complex, and is thought to be due to androgen-stimulated sebum production. This production leads to follicular occlusion and hyperkeratinization, with comedo formation, as well as microbial colonization of pilosebaceous follicles by Propionibacterium acnes, leading to inflammatory papules and pustules. Conventional treatments for acne include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics (topical and systemic). However, symptoms may not always improve, and patients may have adverse reactions to conventional treatments and thus seek alternative treatments. Antibiotic resistance in P acnes also has been rising, thus promoting the need to look at alternative therapies. (2). Copyright © 2013 by the American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.