Home Remedies for Acne

Posted in May 18th, 2010 by admin | Filed under Acne | Comments (0)

Acne can be embarrassing and unsightly pimples seem to pop up on days when they are least welcome. Acne is common in teenagers because of hormonal changes, and even adults may suffer from breakouts. Women who are close to menstruation also may get acne. Here are some fast acting home remedies for acne:

Makeup Choices

Wear makeup that does not contain oil. Look for foundation that is “non comedogenic” or a water-based preparation. Oily makeup will likely result in worsening a breakout, or even cause a future breakout. Better yet, go without makeup. The less makeup you wear, the better off your skin is.

Vitamin C

According to Reader’s Digest Vitamins & Herbs, you can take vitamin C to help fight the bacteria that causes acne. Vitamin C can be combined with zinc to reduce inflammation and regulate hormone levels. If you have been taking zinc for at least one month, ask your doctor about a mineral copper supplement as zinc can hinder the body’s absorption of copper.

Essential Fatty Acids and Vitamin A

Essential fatty acids help the body dilute oily sebum production, which clogs pores and causes acne. Taking vitamin A can also help control the body’s production of sebum. The Reader’s Digest Vitamins & Herbs warns that vitamin A could increase the risk of bone fractures. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should not take more than 5000 IU of vitamin A daily.

Washing

Wash your skin carefully with a medicated cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Use a gentle cleanser if you do not have medicated cleanser on hand. Do not squeeze those whiteheads, no matter how tempting. Squeezing it will just worsen inflammation or possibly cause an infection. Add moisturizer to your skin if it is dry from acne medications.

Detox

Joshi’s Holistic Life Plan recommends a body Detox Plan that requires avoiding alcohol, caffeine, fried foods, sugar and animal protein. The Detox Plan targets hormonal, stress and chemical causes of acne. The plan also states that aloe vera juice or a spiced tea containing equal amounts of cumin, coriander and fennel can help clear up acne.

Blackheads

According to the Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies, blackheads—this will not apply to whiteheads—can be squeezed by the skin surrounding it. Blackheads are caused by a blocked pore and squeezing the solid material out can help clear the pore. The Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies also states that squeezing the blackhead will not result in a pimple. Always do this with clean fingers.