Natural Acne Treatments

• Acne breakouts are among the most common skin conditions
• Hormones and acne are directly related, which is why both teenagers and adults can experience acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. Normally teenagers are the most affected victims of this condition. The figures show 90 percent of males and 80 percent of females have experienced this problem at least once in their adolescence. However, adults can also have acne problem.

A rise in the level of the hormone, Testosterone, leads to acne and pimples. However, genetic factors can be regarded as initial reasons of acne. Psychological disturbances, stress and improper dietary habits also play a major role.

Acne lesions begin with black heads and white heads forming under the skin and then turning into small pinkish bumps called pimples. These pimples are red lesions filled with puss. These can cause irritation and they occur mostly on the face, back, shoulders and chest.

Acne can be painful and it needs to be treated. When left untreated and not allowed to heal properly, scarring is the result. There are several medical acute acne treatment methods, but it is always better to go for the natural acne treatment. Some of the best and simple natural acne treatment methods are noted below:

Tea Tree Oil

One of the most popular natural acne remedies is Tea Tree oil. Tea Tree oil is derived from the Melleuca alternifoliais tree, which is found in Australia. It is one of the most effective natural treatments for acne and contains Terpenes that help in fight the bacteria on the skin. Tea Tree oil can be found in most natural food stores.

Tea tree oil should be topically applied with a cotton ball onto the acne lesions avoiding the eye area. The Tea Tree oil has great healing properties and also soothes the skin. It has a mild tingling effect on the skin but should be applied sparingly as too much can cause dryness or irritation to the skin.

Zinc

Zinc is another natural acne treatment and can be very useful in strengthening the immune system and repairing the skin. By regulating the oil gland activity, it helps prevent acne. The appearance of acne can be a sign that the body has a zinc deficieny. Most modern diets are deficient in zinc, but it can be found in meat sources such as pork, lamb, beef and chicken. Additional food sources are peanuts, legumes and peanut butter. If you eat a diet high in refined foods, it may be wise to supplement with zinc. Check with your healthcare professional to determine the dosage that is right for you.

Water

Water is necessary and important in natural acne treatment. Water helps in releasing toxins from the body and you should drink plenty of water each day. Drinking a minimum of 4 pints of water daily is recommended in order to keep the body clean inside and well hydrated. It is recommended to gently wash your face twice daily using a natural soap or cleanser. Be sure you have removed all soap residue as this can remain on the skin and clog the pores. Removing the excess oil from your face will greatly reduce the formation of pimples and acne. Using an astringent is not recommended unless the skin is extremely oily.

Exfoliate

Blackheads and acne goes hand in hand. Blackheads are caused due to the excess dead skin cells that are shed very often and then get plugged in the pores of the skin. Exfoliation is necessary in the treatment of blackheads. You can use any exfoliating scrubs or natural home made scrubs for this purpose. Exfoliate on a regular basis, but not everyday, and you will notice the difference. However, exfoliation is not recommended if the pimples are already infected. Irritating the infected areas can lead to scarring of the skin.

Proper Diet

Your diet has a great impact on your health and that has a direct link with your skin. Your skin is directly affected by what you eat. Although it has been stated that acne does not stem from eating “bad” foods including fried food, eating and maintaining a wholesome diet will have beneficial effects in keeping the skin nourished. Fresh fruits, vegetables and foods rich in minerals, vitamins, essential oils and natural antioxidants will contribute to healthy skin and total body health.

Honey Mask

Honey has natural antibacterial properties and when applied to your skin, will help fight bacteria and germs. As a facial mask, the honey will act as a natural killer of the bacteria that builds up on the skin. When the bacteria becomes abundant and gets trapped in the pores of the face, the sebum or oil reacts with the other substances in the skin resulting in pimples. A specific honey, known as Manuka, contains all the antibacterial properties in other types of honey, however, Manuka displays antioxidant properties that can keep the skin supple and help prevent wrinkles.

Use anti-acne soap for washing your face

Natural soaps containing sulfur are especially good for treating acne. You can use these soaps twice everyday for washing your face as these are mild soaps. Always wash gently and do not scrub roughly because this can lead to an overproduction of the secretion of oil or sebum, thus providing the environment for pimples to errupt.

Chromium diet

Chromium is highly known to be a part of diets related to weight loss. Chromium has excellent properties and can reduce skin infections as well. Chromium helps to regulate the activity of the oil glands in the skin. The normal form of chromium in foods is not easily absorbed and is lost during processing. A diet high in refind sugars can cause the body to lose chromium. Taking chromium supplements everyday can help aid in the fight against acne and you should consult your doctor to recommend the proper dosage for you.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A with carotenoids helps in strengthening the skin’s protective tissues. Vitamin A reduces the formation of acne by reducing the production of sebum. The tissue that mucous membranes and the skin are made of is maintained and repaired by the properties Vitamin A provides. A potent antioxidant, Vitamin A helps protect the skin cells in releasing toxins caused by free radicals.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.