Acne is a common, non-contagious skin condition that affects adolescence and sometimes women during menopause. Acne causes pimples to form on the skin. The exact cause of acne is unknown though hormone changes may play a part. There are four different types of acne; blackheads, whiteheads, pustules and papules. These are caused when the skin produces large amount of sebum. The sebum blocks the pores, attracting dirt and bacteria and forming a pimple. There are a number of holistic treatments for acne including herbs and vitamin therapy, here’s a rundown.
Arnica
Topical ointments made from the herb arnica may be used to treat acne. Arnica has antiseptic properties and may stop the buildup of bacteria in the pores which in turn could prevent acne. Arnica also has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
Vitamin Therapy
Taking a daily zinc supplement may help to reduce the inflammation caused by acne and to heal the skin without scarring. The suggested dose is between 30 and 50mg of zinc per day. Taking 50mg of vitamin B6 every day can also help to regulate the hormones.
Tamanu
Tamanu oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and it helps to promote new cell growth and healing. This may make it beneficial for the treatment of acne as it may reduce redness and swelling and help the skin heal quickly without pitting and scarring. You should consult your doctor before using Tamanu oil.
Honey
Honey is beneficial for the skin in general and may be particularly helpful for acne. A honey and cinnamon facial mask can help clear acne, remove blemishes and prevent flare-ups. This is due to honey’s antibiotic and antibacterial properties. It also moisturizes the skin and keeps it smooth.
Toothpaste
This one might surprise you, but toothpaste contains triclosan which is an anti-bacterial agent also found in personal hygiene products like deodorant and soap. Apply toothpaste to the affected area of skin, leave on for about 30 minutes then rinse off and pat dry. Gel toothpaste is not suitable as an acne treatment as it may contain ingredients that irritate your skin.
Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate is not only used for baking but also in many personal hygiene products like toothpaste and shampoo because it helps regulate the pH level of your skin. Mix it with water to form a paste and use it to cleanse your skin. Spread evenly over your skin and rinse off with warm water after a few minutes. It will not only reduce inflammation but also the risk of acne scars.
Egg White
This simple food item found in just about every kitchen could be the cure you’ve been searching for. Rack the egg and separate the white from the yolk. Apply the egg white onto your clean face. Leave for around ten minutes then rinse off with warm water.
What else can I try?
Home remedies and alternative treatments may not produce the desired results for everyone. The results can vary according to the user, some treatments require lifestyle changes and some treatments take a lot of time to respond. Acne sufferers often turn to more conventional treatments for faster and more reliable results. With Acne, there is no one single product that works for everyone, so it is best to look at systems that combine different treatments. Reading through these Proactive reviews and ratings will give you a better idea of the various solutions available, and how each treatment works.
As you can see, there’s no need to rush off to the dermatologist if you’re suffering from acne. Try these home remedies first. There is a wealth of information online for both natural remedies and more conventional treatment options.
