How To Treat Acne Naturally And Effectively
There are lots of over the counter and prescription acne treatments, but many of them contain harsh chemicals that can cause even more damage to inflamed skin. Because of these unwanted side effects, it can be helpful to try natural acne remedies instead, so learn how to treat acne naturally and effectively.
What is a natural acne treatment?
The definition of “natural” is a product that contains no artificial ingredients or chemicals and is created from all-natural things. Typical examples of natural acne skin treatments include face masks made from clay or mud and skin care products from retailers such as the Body Shop.
Why try natural remedies to treat acne?
Prescription medications can be very successful in treating acne, but long term use of antibiotics and topical ointments containing harsh chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide can cause all kinds of side effects, including digestive problems and dry, inflamed skin. Some people also suffer from allergic reactions to over the counter acne treatment, which makes it impossible for the person to continue using them, so their only option is to try treating the symptoms of acne with natural remedies instead.
How can natural acne remedies help?
In many cases, acne is caused by an imbalance of hormones and body chemistry and the external symptoms of spots, oily skin and lesions are a sign that your body is not working at its optimum level. Traditionally antibiotics are prescribed to try and kill the high levels of skin bacteria that cause the symptoms of acne, but it is sometimes better to treat acne from within as high levels of skin bacteria indicate that your body is creating the conditions that allow bacteria to develop.
What natural remedies can help treat acne?
If chemical treatments are not working for you, it is worth trying holistic remedies to reduce your symptoms of acne. Holistic medicines aim to treat the underlying problems from the inside out and they are often longer lasting and more effective than more traditional treatments such as antibiotics and topical creams. Chinese herbal medicine has several products aimed at treating the inflammation and pimples found in acne. They contain herbs and natural ingredients than can prove to be very effective when all else has failed, although you will achieve greater success if you address other issues such as a poor diet at the same time.
How to treat acne at home using natural remedies
Tea tree oil is known for its natural antibacterial properties, so try using natural tea tree oil cleansing products morning and night. Apple cider vinegar has lots of useful health applications, but when applied to the face and body following cleansing, it can help to dry up spots and reduce inflammation caused by acne. Witch hazel and rose water can work as a very effective natural astringent toner. Aloe vera and milk mixed together into a gel will reduce redness and inflammation.
Face scrubs and face masks are useful for drawing out bacteria and toxins from the skin, but many products available from drug stores contain harsh chemicals that leave the skin dry and sore after use, so instead of spending a fortune on expensive brands, make your own face scrubs and face masks using completely natural products. Honey is a great natural healer and is also very suitable for sensitive skin, so make a natural face mask with honey and oatmeal and use twice per weak for maximum effect.
Oatmeal is an excellent natural facial ingredient: mix some with water and microwave until soft. Leave to cool and then apply to the face and leave in place for ten minutes. Rinse off with cold water and the inflammation should be much reduced. Alternatively make a natural face scrub using sugar, lime or lemon juice and oatmeal. Rub the face scrub into your skin gently and then rinse off with clean water: the lime/lemon juice is a natural astringent that closes pores, dries up excess oil and kills bacteria.
Natural moor mud or Dead Sea mud is another proven natural ingredient that can help reduce the symptoms of acne. Natural mud contains high levels of nutrients and antioxidants. It promotes healing and reduces the inflammation caused by acne. When used regularly, results will be seen quickly.
Can natural diet supplements help cure acne?
There is a lot of evidence to suggest that diet plays a big part in reducing the symptoms of acne, so it makes sense to heal your body from the inside. Zinc is a very important ingredient in the diet of acne sufferers and a lack of zinc can lead to more skin outbreaks. Taking zinc supplements can reduce the amount of sebum your skin produces, which in turn helps to dry the skin out and prevent more spots and lesions from forming.
Vitamin A and B6 also play a key role in keeping the skin healthy, so if you are not sure whether your diet contains enough healthy nutrients, consider taking a diet supplement containing vitamin A and B6.
And finally, if your skin is problematic and you suffer from regular outbreaks of acne, make sure you are drinking enough fresh water every day. Water helps to flush out the toxins from our bodies and when we are dehydrated, it affects our skin and leads to further blemishes and spots forming. Drinking plenty of water is the best way to keep your skin clear and healthy, so consume between six and eight glasses of water per day.
