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    dermatological

    Acne Vulgaris

    Also known as: acne, pimples, blackheads, cystic acne, breakouts

    Acne causes blackheads, pimples and sometimes deeper cysts, most often on the face, chest and back. Effective conventional treatments exist (topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and for severe cases oral options via a GP). Chinese medicine treats acne through Lung-Stomach Heat, Damp-Heat with Phlegm, or Blood stasis patterns.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Effective treatments exist — see the GP early rather than waiting for scars.
    • •Wash gently twice daily; harsh scrubbing makes acne worse.
    • •Use non-comedogenic (won't-clog-pores) skincare and makeup.
    • •Evidence links high-glycaemic diets and some dairy to acne — a trial reduction is reasonable.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •Cystic or scarring acne needs medical treatment early; don't manage with Chinese medicine alone.[,]
    • •Isotretinoin and certain acne medicines interact with herbs — check before prescribing.[]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review every 4–6 weeks with photos. Track lesion count and scarring. Refer to GP/dermatology for cystic acne, scarring, or no improvement in 8–12 weeks.

    Explore more diseases

    Achilles tendinopathy (adjunctive care)Acid reflux (GERD)Acne vulgarisAcute and Chronic DiarrhoeaAcute bronchitisAcute cystitisAcute gastritisAcute lumbar sprain

    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Acne — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. Acne vulgaris — NICE CKS
      NICE · 2023
    3. Acne — Australasian College of Dermatologists
      ACD · 2024
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.