Acne

Acne is mainly a condition involving papules or pustules on the faces of adolescent males and females, caused by the inflammation of hair follicles. The primary causes include the stimulation of sebaceous (oil) glands by male hormones, along with factors such as constipation, various life stresses, and the presence of bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, which is naturally found in hair follicles. Sweat, impaired skin cell shedding, and blockages or narrowing of pore openings also play a complex role. Additionally, genetic predisposition, a diet rich in sugars and fats, use of cosmetics, menstrual cycles, and lowered physical condition contribute to acne development.Treatment involves minimizing these factors as much as possible, paying special attention to facial cleansing, and avoiding makeup. In Western medicine, common treatments include low-dose, long-term antibiotic use, short-term isotretinoin therapy, and oral vitamin B2, as well as the use of topical creams with antibiotics to remove physical blockages. Long-term antibiotic use is generally effective and beneficial, but it also requires consideration of potential side effects.In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), acne vulgaris is primarily seen as a reflection of internal imbalances that manifest on the skin. TKM identifies several underlying patterns that contribute to acne, mainly involving heat, dampness, blood stasis, and disharmony between different organs. TKM also believes that emotional  factors, such as stress or anger, can lead to stagnation in the circulation function of various bodily systems. In turn, this stagnation can induce heat and inflammation and cause an acne flareup as a result.Treatment Case 1: 27-year-old femaleThe patient is of average build and height, with fair skin and a slightly frail appearance. Since middle school, the patient has had frequent acne on the face, which worsens, especially during the summer, and often forms pustules. Since last summer, the condition has worsened, and the patient has developed photosensitivity. A butterfly-shaped erythema also appeared on the face, and later, contact dermatitis from wearing earrings became common. After healing, there was residual hyperpigmentation. The patient often experiences a sensation of heat and frequent dryness in the mouth. Treatment with herbal medicine to clear heat was initiated.Two weeks after starting treatment, the sensation of heat on the face was reduced by half, and after one month, the formation of new pustules was significantly reduced. Three months into the treatment, new pustules were almost nonexistent, and if they appeared, only one or two formed and healed quickly within a few days. The same treatment was continued for about a year, and acne rarely appeared. When the patient's condition declined, one or two pustules would form, but they healed naturally within a few days.