search results for benzoyl peroxide

Are there any herbal or alternative therapies for acne?

Some people have tried herbal treatments for the treatment of acne including tea tree oil (Nourish Skin, Pure Tea Tree Oil, Desert Essence Blemish Touch Stick with Eco-Harvest Tea Tree Oil) and arnica. Unfortunately, these herbs have not been proven to be effective for acne. Tea tree oil is thought to have anti-bacterial effects that may improve acne. One study compared tree tea oil to an over-the-counter medication called benzoyl peroxide. They found that tea tree oil is less effective than benzoyl peroxide, but also less irritating to the skin. Arnica is thought to improve acne due to its anti-inflammatory effects. However, there are no studies documenting the effectiveness of arnica for acne.

Some people also believe that applying zinc to the skin can improve acne. There are several small studies showing that zinc in combination with erythromycin antibiotic lotion, may improve acne. However, oral zinc tablets have not been proven to improve acne.

Sources:
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
Herbal Medicinals: A Clinician’s Guide. Pharmaceutical Products Press, 1998.
Robbers, J.E., V.E. Tyler. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. The Haworth Press, 1999.
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pharmacists Letter Inc., 2000.
Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach. Appleton & Lange, 1999.
Diseases and Conditions, "Acne." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 12/20/2006.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.

This answer prepared 11/3/2000.
This information updated 12/20/2006.

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