In general, over-the-counter acne treatments and traditional prescription medications have proven effective in the reduction and virtual elimination of acne, there are other less traditional ways to approach the treatment of acne. When delving into non-traditional medicine most are dealing with approaches such as acupuncture, herbal medicines, homeopathic medicine, mind/body medicine, Ayurveda and Kampo as well as dietary and nutritional considerations. The following takes a look at each of these areas as they relate to acne.
Acupuncture: The use of acupuncture in the treatment of acne has not been scientifically evaluated but there have been reports that two acupuncture procedures have reduced the symptoms of acne: auricular acupuncture (acupuncture applied to the ear) and electro-acupuncture (acupuncture using a mild electrical current).
Herbal medicine: Some herbs are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and, for that reason, they may be helpful in the treatment of acne (as well as other skin conditions):
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
Licorice root...