For a year I have had an itchy, sore scalp and ears. Pieces of skin flake off and painful cracks appear. My job is stressful but I have a varied diet and take exercise and vitamins.

You may have seborrhoeic eczema, which usually affects adults aged 20 to 40. When the ear folds and ear canal are involved it is called ear eczema. To be effective, alternative treatments must be holistic - a therapist would need to know all about any other health problems, and assess your physical type and psychological make-up before choosing remedies to restore your body's balance and stimulate self-healing. A cure may not be possible, but you can be helped to control symptoms, relax and reduce stress. Homeopathic treatment can be very successful. To find a homeopath, contact The Society of Homeopaths on 0845 450 6611 or homeopathy-soh.org. Also see eczema.org.

I took Roaccutane for acne for six months, which cleared up my skin. But since I stopped taking it the acne has come back on my chest, back and face. I am keen to try a natural health approach. I am 22, eat healthily and exercise twice a week.

There are many possible causes for your acne. If it is due to a hormone imbalance, Roaccutane will not help and it can trigger traumatic side effects, so should be used only as a last resort. The Sher System is a safe, effective skincare programme. Helen Sher will make a detailed assessment, make recommendations and won't give up until she has done all she can. She works to balance hormones and diet, offers an excellent skin supplement range and a multiple rinse cleansing routine that draws out impurities, oils and bacteria. Visit sher.co.uk or call 020-7499 4022.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following Emma's recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions.

Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.