Should You Choose Traditional Chinese Medicine or Dermatology for Acne?

Is it better to see a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or a Western medicine doctor for acne?

In the past, acne was not a major issue for me, but starting around February or March of last year, it began to worsen significantly for unknown reasons.
I subsequently visited a dermatologist, and by September and October, I started regular treatments.
By December, the doctor told me that my condition had improved enough that I could stop coming in, and to return only if new breakouts occurred.
However, I continued to experience occasional breakouts, though they were not severe or numerous.
In April and May, the breakouts increased again, and my mother took me to see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but it didn't seem to help much, and the severity remained about the same.
Last year, I had more breakouts on my cheeks, with some on other areas; this year, I have a lot of small, dense breakouts on my forehead, which have become inflamed and quite distressing.
Therefore, I returned to the dermatologist for topical treatments (previously, I had both oral and topical medications), but I thought it might not be advisable to combine Western and traditional Chinese medicine, so I opted for topical treatments only.
The dermatologist told me that while he cannot guarantee results for other conditions, he firmly believes that traditional Chinese medicine is ineffective for treating acne.
So, should I continue with traditional Chinese medicine or switch to Western medicine (dermatology)?

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/07/08

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology

Dear Miss Lin,
Acne is a skin condition that can be effectively treated by dermatologists in the vast majority of cases.
However, acne is a condition that tends to recur, especially during adolescence, which necessitates ongoing treatment.
As for the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine, I am not certain.
The most important principles for treating acne are, first, to have patience, and second, to maintain a regular lifestyle and avoid staying up late.

Wishing you peace and may God bless you.

Reply Date: 2002/07/08

More Info

When it comes to treating acne, the choice between Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western dermatology can be quite complex and often depends on individual circumstances, preferences, and the severity of the condition.
Acne is a common skin condition that can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, stress, and genetics. In Western medicine, dermatologists typically approach acne treatment through a combination of topical and systemic medications. Common treatments include retinoids like tretinoin, antibiotics such as doxycycline, and hormonal therapies. These treatments aim to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and combat bacterial growth, which are key factors in acne development.

On the other hand, Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches acne from a holistic perspective. TCM practitioners believe that acne is often a manifestation of internal imbalances, such as heat or dampness in the body. Treatments may include herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary recommendations aimed at restoring balance and improving overall health. While some individuals report positive results with TCM, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for acne treatment is limited compared to Western medicine.

In your case, it seems that you have already sought treatment from a dermatologist, who provided a regimen that initially showed improvement. However, the recurrence of acne suggests that your condition may require ongoing management. It’s important to recognize that acne can be a chronic condition, and many patients experience flare-ups even after successful treatment.
Your experience with TCM did not yield significant improvements, which is not uncommon. While some patients may find relief through alternative therapies, others may not see the same benefits. The dermatologist's assertion that TCM is ineffective for acne is a reflection of the prevailing view in Western medicine, which emphasizes evidence-based treatments.

If you are considering switching back to dermatology, it may be beneficial to discuss your ongoing symptoms with your dermatologist. They can evaluate your current treatment plan and make adjustments as necessary. This could include trying different topical treatments, oral medications, or even light therapy, which has shown effectiveness in treating acne.

Moreover, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent skincare routine and avoid picking at acne lesions, as this can lead to scarring and further inflammation. Lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress management, can also play a significant role in acne management. Keeping a diary of your diet and stress levels may help identify triggers that exacerbate your condition.

In conclusion, while both TCM and Western dermatology offer different approaches to acne treatment, the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the effectiveness of the treatments you have tried. If you find that TCM is not providing the results you desire, it may be wise to return to a dermatologist for a more structured and evidence-based approach to managing your acne. Remember, effective acne treatment often requires patience and a willingness to explore various options until you find what works best for you.

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