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Acne: Acne: Foruncular Natural Treatments

Sufferers of severe acne may not be familiar with the word "foruncular." However, they probably know what foruncular, or nodular, acne looks like. It is the type of serious acne that usually drives sufferers to seek a stronger, better, or different treatment than those that can be purchased over-the-counter. This is one reason that foruncular natural treatments for acne have become very popular.

Foruncular acne appears as very large lesions. They are much larger than the ordinary pustules which most people associate with acne breakouts. This type of acne is very difficult to treat, partly because the lesions grow under the skin. They may remain for weeks or even months. If left untreated, or if treated improperly, they can produce ugly scars which may last for a lifetime. People with this type of acne often suffer bouts of depression along with the scars. Teens may suffer from self-esteem problems. Often, nodular acne does not disappear with adulthood as other milder forms do. It's no wonder that thousands of people in North America are searching for a cure.

In their quest for a cure, many sufferers are advised to try prescription drugs. While some people find success with medications like the commonly prescribed Accutane, it is not always without a price. Prescription treatments are often accompanied by serious side effects. Though rare, these drugs can even lead to suicidal thoughts. They also can cause severe birth defects if a woman becomes pregnant while taking them.

Because so many acne sufferers prefer to avoid the complications associated with prescription medications, many have sought out foruncular natural treatments. Every person's skin is different, of course, and it may require trying a few different types of treatments. A person may even need to use a combination of treatments. The following are some of the most popular non-drug, natural treatments available.

* Light therapy. There are a few ways to treat acne with light therapy. First, UV lamps, such as the type you would find in a tanning salon, can sometimes provide effective acne relief. Naturally, though, there are health concerns associated with the use of tanning-type lamps. Although it only takes a few minutes of daily exposure to produce results, no one is really sure what amount, if any, of UV exposure is considered "safe." A better choice for acne treatment is probably a broad-spectrum lamp with no ultraviolet light. Again, just a few minutes of exposure per day may produce satisfactory results. In recent years, experts have begun to recommend the use of blue light therapy. This type of treatment exposes the skin only to blue light. Blue light specifically targets the type of bacteria that causes severe acne. It also reduces the risk of side effects. In fact, many people experience no side effects with the use of blue light.

* Tea tree oil. This derivative of the meleleuca tree has dozens of health applications, including treating acne. It can be used in a variety of forms. Acne sufferers may want to try cleansing twice daily with tea tree oil soap. Tea tree oil can also be applied directly to blemishes, but should be used very sparingly.

* Licorice root extract. This herbal remedy is more commonly known as an anti-nauseant. However, some acne sufferers find success in treating acne by taking licorice root internally. This is because it is believed to have anti-inflammatory qualities, as well.

Sometimes a consultation with a homeopathic practitioner can help you find exactly the right natural treatment. Since everyone's skin is different, what works for one person may not be as effective for another. A professional homeopath can help determine what treatment your particular skin type may respond best to.