Acne is a common problem among many teenagers, young adults, and some older adults. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), 17 million people in the United States have acne somewhere on their body.

Most acne is found on the face, chest, neck, back, and shoulders. Factors may include heredity, oily skin, stress, cosmetics, and hormonal lifestyle. Sara Urevig, LAc, herbal dispensary manager for the Minnesota College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine at Northwestern Health Sciences University, says, “Traditional Chinese medicine views acne as an external manifestation of an intense imbalance.”

There are a variety of things a person can do to minimize the appearance of acne and even eliminate the problem. One approach Urevig suggests is acupuncture to help treat acne. “A Chinese medical practitioner will perform a differential diagnosis to determine the underlying cause of the acne. The location and appearance of the acne is considered as well as the overall state of the individual’s constitution and lifestyle,” she says.

Other recommendations Urevig suggests for treating acne include

• Using cosmetics without oil
• Increasing water consumption
• Regular sleeping habits
• Eating a properly balanced diet.
• Consuming fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, pears, watermelon, and carrots.
• Taking an herbal supplement as advised by a professional herbalist.
• Avoiding excessive touching of the face where the breakouts and acne occur.
• Using a mild cleanser to keep skin clean.