cure for acne

Since the majority of the worlds population suffer from acne at some point in their lives
there is no surprise that such efforts are invested in finding out how to it. While there have been some definitive answers on whether acne is hormonally induced (yes)
and what can be done to prevent it (prescription drugs
certain herbal remedies
etc)
there are still many unknown factors that cause acne.

However
of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to
the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.

Historically
diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion
and this in turn would create acne breakouts.

However
as time went on
science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat)
and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores
there is no such thing as “extra oil secretion”. So
for at least the last 15 years
western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.

However
a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the “diet causes acne” argument
and this time
with a bit more heat.

This study
conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung
states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is
Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones
and what breaks down fatty acids.

The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So
if there is a shortage of B5
there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A
the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones
not break down fatty acids.

So
you can see where this is going…more fatty acids
more sebum production
more acne.

Now
the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 )
and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3
sebum production was reduced
and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne
a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day)
and treatment was prolonged to see an effect
sometimes up to 6 months.

So
while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne
it may well be worth considering
particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne
and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide
or other prescription acne treatments.

As with any medical treatment
it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.