Our skin has tiny pores that are often blocked by oils, pollution, and bacteria. When the pores get blocked, the sebum (oil) produced there gets trapped; that, along with accumulated dead skin cells, shows on the skin as pimples, otherwise known as acne breakouts. Acne can affect anyone at any age and can be annoying and painful – but don’t despair: there are many remedies that can help! Read on to learn about caring for acne: home remedies to try.
How it looks and what causes it?
Acne can appear as various types of blemishes; some are more common than others, and they can range from mild to severe. Here are typical types of acne lesions:
- Closed clogged pores (whiteheads)
- Open clogged pores (blackheads)
- Small red bumps (papules)
- Papules with pus at their tip ( pimples)
- Large solid, painful bumps (nodules); they usually, have dead accumulated skin cells beneath
- Painful, pus-filled lumps (cystic acne)
There are four main contributors to acne:
- Overproduction of skin cells, which are trapped in the pores
- Increased oil production
- Excess bacteria in the pores
- Skin irritation causes can be various, the reason being trapped oils and dead skin.
These contributors have many causes, some of which are:
- Hormonal changes during puberty
- Certain medications like birth control pills
- Too much sugar, carbohydrates, and bread
- Genetics
How to take care of acne at home
Acne can be controlled with simple self-care steps,
- Keep your skin clean: use a mild medicated cleanser at least twice a day
- Keep your hair clean: consider an anti-dandruff shampoo and keep the hair away from your forehead
- Don’t squeeze or pick pimples, to avoid spreading bacteria and increasing irritation.
- Don’t touch your face and avoid heavy clogging makeup (especially those with silicone/dimethicone)
- Use skin care products especially formulated for acne, such as those created by Synergie Skin.
6 Home remedies for acne to try
While the benefits of cosmeceutical skin care formulated to treat acne are well proven, there are also other home options to make for yourself. Here are our top picks to treat acne at home,
Apple cider vinegar
The unfiltered, fermented juice from apples, as apple cider vinegar is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and can help with reducing redness and swelling. By killing bacteria it can prevent them from infecting again.
How to use it?
- Mix one part of vinegar with 3-4 parts of water
- Dip a cotton pad into the solution and apply it over the affected area
- Wash immediately if the skin burns; otherwise let it sit for a minute, rinse with cold water and pat dry
- Repeat this 1-2 times a day
Honey and cinnamon
Both these ingredients are a great source of antioxidants and have remarkable antibacterial properties. Honey is also very soothing for the skin and provides ample hydration without making the skin too oily. The combination can effectively fight the acne-triggering bacteria and is usually considered safe for all skin types.
How to use it?
- Mix two tablespoons of honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon, to make a mask
- Apply it all over your face for 10-15 minute; wash immediately if it itches or burns
- Rinse your face and pat dry
Baking soda for acne
Many people use baking soda to cure acne problems. The sodium bicarbonate in it can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. It’s also been used to treat sunburns too. The primary reason for its effectiveness is its alkaline properties; since our skin tends to get acidic during a pimple attack, the baking soda can counteract the situation and calms the skin immediately.
How to use it?
- Mix a tablespoon of it in your regular shampoo and clean your hair as usual
- Mix a pinch of the soda with your cleanser while washing your face
- A blob of toothpaste with a little soda can calm that zit right away
Witch hazel
This beneficial herb contains tannins, which have antibacterial properties. It works fantastically for treating a range of problems like dandruff, burns, bruises, and insect bites as well. It is safe for sensitive acne-prone skin and can help to bring relief quickly.
How to use it?
- Mix 3-4 drops of the undiluted oil to a cup of water
- Apply it with a cotton pad on the affected skin; discontinue if hurts
Aloe vera
The clear gel from aloe vera leaves is added to multiple skincare products; the plant contains salicylic acid and sulfur, and the ingredients are safe for use on any skin type. The salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce acne scars; the sulfur reportedly helps speed up healing.
How to use it?
- Scoop the fresh gel out of the leaves and apply it directly over the affected area
- Keep it on your skin until it’s dried; wash and pat dry your skin afterward
- Repeat this twice a day to see effective results
Fish oil
Rich in omega 3 fatty acids, fish oil has multiple health benefits and amazing anti-inflammatory properties. Taking 250-500 mg daily by mouth can gradually but visibly reduce acne and scarring. You can even pinch a capsule and apply the oil directly to soothe irritated skin.
Acne can be due to many factors; it’s important to treat all of them, but even home remedies can help, though they may take a little time to produce changes. In addition, there are multiple skin care products available to reduce acne; look for a line that has clinical-grade ingredients with proven efficacy, such as Synergie, available at online at Skin Elegance. In case of severe irritation, consult a dermatologist.
Author Bio:
Jennifer is a proficient writer who firmly believes in age-old remedies and holistic medicine as a primary cure for several diseases. After graduating she embarked on a journey to find the truth about holistic and natural remedies.
Source:
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/acne
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-simple-and-natural-ways-get-rid-acne-fast.html
Photo by Seksak Kerdkanno at 123RF
