Acne is an ailment that affects many people worldwide. It occurs commonly in skin, especially when pores become clogged. Clogging is the result of oil and dead skin cells building up in the pores until bacteria is able to grow. Once the bacteria makes its entrance, varying degrees of zits or pimples can appear on your skin.
There are natural acne treatment resources available
Acne is not pleasant, and many can attest to its discomfort as well as the unwanted redness and bumps that occur as a result. Fortunately there is a good deal of research concerning this well-known ailment, and there are many natural resources available to diminish the effects of acne.
Tea tree oil to calm acne
A natural remedy that many have used throughout the years to calm acne is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil comes from an Australian tree and has been used in the country for centuries in many forms of medicinal treatment. This oil is known to shrink pores, therefore diminishing oil and bacteria. This oil cannot be applied directly but can be diluted before use.
Picking diluted tea tree oil or a product that implements the oil is a safer and more effective way to benefit from this resource. When applying, be sure to keep the oil away from your eyes, and never ingest this product as it is dangerous to consume.
Witch hazel is a milder alternative to treat acne
Because tea tree oil is such a strong product and must be modified before use, you may be wondering whether there is a milder, natural remedy for acne. Witch hazel can be a wonderful tool when fighting acne and is gentle and affective.
Witch hazel comes from a North American shrub and is full of tannins. These tannins aid in drying out pimples, therefore removing unwanted oil that clogs the pores. Witch hazel fights bacteria and reduces inflammation, taming the redness that accompanies acne. This remedy can be found in many natural products, working well with aloe vera to further soothe and evenly tone skin.
Activated charcoal can treat acne
Finally, those who suffer from acne may want to consider applying activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is made when charcoal is exposed to heat, causing the charcoal to become capable of absorbing toxins and oils. This product is also antibacterial; removing bacteria that builds up in pores and results in whiteheads or blackheads. Activated charcoal can be applied as a mask, absorbing toxins and bacteria as it remains on your skin.
Acne can be frustrating, and its effects are often unpleasant. Yet with a dedicated routine that implements one or several of these natural resources, you may find that the symptoms of acne are diminished and that breakouts become less intense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Acne Remedies
What helps acne go away fast?
Apply a paste of crushed aspirin and witch hazel (or water) to pimples. Applying Pepto Bismal (the pink stuff) as a mask has been known to help clear up acne, but be aware it can be irritating to skin so it's best to do a patch test first before applying all over your face.
How do I know if my acne is bacterial or hormonal?
Indicators such as getting acne flare-ups at the same time every month, or if topical treatments help resolve acne issues, are good ways to tell the difference between bacterial and hormonal acne. If in doubt, an aesthetician or dermatologist can help you determine what type of acne you are experiencing.
Does honey help with acne?
Honey can be an effective natural acne treatment because of its antibacterial properties. The easiest way to use honey for acne is as a spot treatment, applying to individual blemishes. When applied to acne-prone skin as a face mask, honey can also be beneficial. Simply apply a thin layer to the face and let it sit for 15 minutes. Making your own homemade mask with natural ingredients like yogurt, aloe vera, and oatmeal can have additional advantages.
