Part 1 had mentioned in what circumstances does acne need to be treated, what are the consequences of leaving acne untreated etc, if you have not read the last part you can click “here”. Let’s continue to next part.
1. 1. Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Cause More Acne During Treatment?
TCM focuses on adjusting the internal and external balance of the body to enhance the skin’s self-healing ability. Some patients may notice an increase in acne during the initial treatment phase, which is a normal response. Generally, an increase of about 1 to 5 pimples is considered acceptable, and this situation usually improves within 1 to 2 weeks after treatment begins.
Reasons for Increased Acne During TCM Treatment:
- Detoxification:
TCM promotes the elimination of internal toxins through sweating, bowel movements, and diuretics, which may temporarily increase the number of acne lesions at the start of treatment. - Meridian Activation:
TCM stimulates the meridians to promote blood circulation and activate the body’s self-repair functions. During this healing process, previously unhealed acne may become active.
How to Handle It:
- If the increase in acne is bothersome, communicate with your TCM practitioner to adjust the treatment plan.
- Be patient; as treatment progresses, the number of acne lesions will gradually decrease, leading to improvement.
- Adjust your lifestyle by maintaining a healthy diet, regular sleep schedule, and managing stress, which can aid overall effectiveness.
- Practice daily skincare, avoiding harsh products and opting for gentle or natural skincare items.
Summary
An increase in acne during the initial phase of TCM treatment is often a normal part of the body’s adjustment process. With appropriate TCM treatment and a healthy lifestyle, significant improvement can typically be seen over time. Good communication with your physician and a positive mindset are also key to success.
2. Should I Squeeze Pimples During TCM Treatment?
It is best to avoid actively squeezing pimples during TCM treatment! If necessary, consult your physician for safe handling of acne to ensure it does not interfere with the overall treatment effect.
Risks of Squeezing Pimples:
- Infection Risk: Squeezing can damage the skin barrier and increase the risk of infection.
- Worsening Inflammation: Squeezing can exacerbate inflammation in surrounding skin, potentially worsening the acne.
- Scarring: Improper squeezing may lead to scars or dark pigmentation on the skin.
Summary
During TCM treatment, try to avoid squeezing pimples. If you notice an increase in acne, communicate with your physician promptly so they can adjust the treatment plan according to your condition.
3. Will Acne Return After Treatment?
TCM usually focuses on holistic adjustments, but if good lifestyle habits (like diet, sleep, and emotional management) are not maintained after treatment, the risk of recurrence remains, though this varies from person to person.
Possible Reasons for Recurrence:
- Lifestyle Choices:
Diet, sleep, exercise, and other lifestyle factors greatly influence skin health. Poor lifestyle habits, significant stress, and fluctuating emotions can increase the risk of acne recurrence. - Genetic Factors:
Acne can be hereditary; individuals with a family history of acne may be more prone to recurrence. - Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, or pregnancy, can trigger acne again. - Skincare Practices:
Using unsuitable skincare products, excessive cleansing, or habitual squeezing can lead to skin problems resurfacing. - Environmental Factors:
Pollution and climate changes can also impact skin health, raising the risk of acne.
Summary
Although there is a possibility of recurrence after acne treatment, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, employing scientific skincare measures, and having regular medical check-ups can be key to prevention.
4. Do I Need to Avoid Certain Foods During Acne Treatment? Why?
During acne treatment, TCM practitioners may recommend dietary adjustments to avoid foods that could worsen acne. While not all treatment plans require strict dietary restrictions, certain eating habits may affect acne treatment.
Foods That May Worsen Acne:
- High Sugar and High GI Foods :
Foods high in sugar, like cakes, desserts, chocolates, and durian, may cause blood sugar fluctuations, stimulating sebaceous gland secretion and increasing acne occurrence. - Dairy Products:
Some individuals may be sensitive to hormones in dairy products, which could impact hormone levels and contribute to acne. - Spicy and Irritating Foods:
Spicy and irritating foods can induce internal inflammation, which may be detrimental to acne treatment. - Caffeine and Chocolate:
Although scientific studies have not definitively linked caffeine and chocolate to acne, some people might experience breakouts after excessive intake.
Summary
Individual responses to foods can vary, so TCM practitioners typically tailor dietary recommendations to each patient. Generally, adopting healthy eating habits, staying hydrated, and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can help improve acne symptoms.
During the process of treating acne, there are many myths that can lead us astray.
When in doubt, it is advisable to consult a physician, develop a reasonable treatment plan, maintain healthy lifestyle habits, and rationally address our concerns to overcome the confusion and enjoy clearer skin.
此文章还有以下语言版本：
简体中文 (Chinese (Simplified)) 
Melayu (Malay)
