Persistent acne is a common complaint today of a large
number of women and continues well into middle age. Even those women who never had acne during their teen years find themselves with constant flares of comedones,
blackheads, lesions and papulopustules.
Hormones are the main cause of most acne in adult women once you rule out acne cosmetica (acne caused by cosmetics). Based on current science acne is not caused by the lack of good skin hygiene, stress or diet although any of these can certainly aggravate the condition.
In one study a degree of acne was recorded in 231 women and 130 men out of a group of 749 volunteers older than age 25. The acne observed in the volunteers consisted principally of physiological acne but clinical facial grade acne was recorded in 3% of the men and 12% of the women. The prevalence of acne did not substantially decrease until after the age of 44.
According to the Department of Dermatology at the University of California Women account for nearly 60% of all doctor visits for dermatologic complaints.
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St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
An aromatic perennial herb bought to the US by European colonist. Although most of us know of it's use today as a natural anti-depressant it was used centuries ago by the ancient Greeks for wounds, scars, burns and myalgia (muscle pain). It contains many components known to have antioxidant capabilities.
In recent research St. John's Worts primary active ingredient hyperforin has been identified as having anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. In one study it was proven effective in its treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.
In clinical studies photosensitivty was associated with oral use of St. John's Wort when used in high doses over a period of time. This same sensitivity was not seen with topical application.
More studies are needed to further investigate all the potential therapeutic capabilities of St. John's Wort in skin care applications.
