Pimpernels

Acne’s Long and Fascinating History

Many people believe acne is a relatively modern ailment, brought on by pollution from factories, rail and road transportation, processed and highly spiced foods which are common today but non-existent a few centuries past.

That is a myth without foundation, for the following main reasons:

* Ancient Egyptian writings suggest several pharaohs suffered acne.

* The word acne derives from the ancient Greece for ‘point’ or ‘peak’.

* In ancient Rome acne sufferers believed that bathing in hot mineral water would ease their complaint.

* 19th century doctors used sulphur to treat acne.

* In the 1930s laxatives were used to treat some forms of acne.

* The advent of antiobiotics in the mid-1900s brought relief to many acne sufferers.

* In the 1990s laser treatment was introduced to cure acne and help prevent flare ups.
 

All information at this site is provided in good faith and is researched to the best of our ability and knowledge.  No information provided at this site is intended at definitive and does not seek to replace advice available from qualified doctors, lawyers and other appropriate professional advisors.