A RECENT STUDY by the American Medical Association has revealed that adolescents and young adults with acne are likely to have lower self-confidence, poor self-image, and are less inclined to participate in social activities.This week the focus remains on children as I shine the spotlight on acne and the Barbadian silent doctors available for healing.
Parents, teachers and guidance counsellors need to be fully aware of the role acne plays in the lives of our children. Acne can cause some negatives in the lives of our children.
As a long-standing teacher I have noticed that some children can become depressed “when a bump or two” turns up on their faces. Other noticeable behaviours are absenting themselves from school, low self-esteem, spending extra time in the bathroom during school hours washing their faces, and excessive use of face powder which sometimes soils the school uniform.
Some even deprive themselves of lunch by using their lunch money to buy cosmetics to conceal the acne.
As we continue on this path, it is important for parents to note that how children feel about their appearance can affect how they feel about themselves. Some of them see acne as making them less attractive and not worthy to have friends. As they proceed through the process, some barely make it through school without feeling stressed or having minor panic attacks.
The online medical dictionary defines acne as “a common skin disease characterized by pimples on the face, chest, and back. It occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria”.
Some of the causes of acne include: disease, heredity, hormonal changes, including menstruation or puberty, incorrect diet, some prescription drugs such as antidepressants, personal hygiene, stress, cosmetics and exposure to negative elements in the environment.
Healing can take place with a change in lifestyle that includes a holistic diet, regular exercise, drinking more water, relaxation exercises, positive affirmations, and prayer.
Teas that can be consumed are turmeric, dandelion, basil, ginger, mint, passion fruit and guava.
Silent doctors that can be used are cerasee, almond leaves, yellow dock, neem, moringa and Christmas candle to wash the skin.
Aloe vera can also be used on the external skin.
The website www.progressivehealth.com/acne-herbal-remedies.htm tells us that aloe vera is a great moisturizer and cleanser. It can penetrate the layers of skin to nourish the follicles and soothe skin irritation. It can also speed up the healing of acne scars.
Additionally, it contains at least six antiseptic agents which can provide a broad antimicrobial cover for the skin.
•Annette Maynard-Watson, a teacher and herbal educator, may be contacted via silentdoctors@gmail.com or by telephone 250-6450.
DISCLAIMER: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific claims for any products. Any attempts to diagnose or treat real illness should come under the directionof your health care provider.
