Health: natural methods to treat acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease that affects many teens. And while it usually begins in adolescence, acne can persist into adulthood. Excessive production of sebum leads to the appearance of lesions which can be painful, on the face and on certain parts of the body, such as the shoulders and the back.

Doctors refer to minor acne when a few blackheads and whiteheads appear on the face. Average acne concerns people who, in addition see red pimples appear on their face and other parts of their body. Finally, severe acne is characterized by nodules and cysts coming on top of other lesions and causing scars.

These rashes are influenced by hormones, but they do not always explain the appearance of acne. Other factors like genetics, stress, pollution, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), unbalanced diet, or hypothyroidism can cause it. In some patients, the causes remain unknown. But how is this disease treated?

The treatments administered depend on the intensity of the acne, and its cause. Dermatologists can prescribe a treatment to apply topically or treat acne systemically. For severe acne, hormonal treatments or antibiotics are delivered by the doctor. Nevertheless, there are also natural solutions that can relieve inflammation and can limit or even stop it.

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Honey is a natural healer that can be used on minor to moderate acne. It absorbs excess sebum that clogs skin pores with its antibacterial properties. It can be used in the form of a mask to be applied to the face, by mixing it with a little lemon juice for example.

Aloe vera is a plant that has anti-inflammatory and purifying properties, which make it very effective against acne. Gels and creams made with aloe vera are excellent natural remedies for the skin. Before applying it to your face, remember to clean it well. To make an aloe vera mask, mix aloe vera gel with a vegetable oil, such as hazelnut oil.

Baking soda is an old-fashioned remedy used to treat pimples. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties reduce redness and eliminate spots and pimples caused by acne. You can use it in a mask, by mixing it with water, to apply on your skin. But be careful not to abuse it, because this substance can irritate the skin and affect the pH of the epidermis.

Jojoba oil has virtues that help regulate sebum production and soothe irritation and inflammation. It is a natural ally for treating skin problems such as acne. Apply jojoba oil to your skin ideally in the evening, before going to sleep, to allow it to act in depth on the epidermis.

Chamomile is effective against excess sebum and bacteria that promote the appearance of pimples. It soothes inflammation of the skin, and purifies it. Steep chamomile in hot water for 15 minutes. Wait for it to cool then use a compress to pat the preparation on your face.

This essential oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory that has soothing and healing properties. It can therefore relieve and limit acne on your skin. With a cotton swab, apply a drop of pure lavender essential oil to each pimple, morning and evening.

Please note that essential oils should not be used on children and pregnant women.

This natural ally is one of the most popular for treating acne. Tea Tree essential oil is a powerful antibacterial and antiseptic, which dries pimples and purifies the skin. To use it correctly, pour 2 drops of essential oil on a cotton swab, and tap each pimple with it, morning and evening.

Please note that essential oils should not be used on children and pregnant women.

Burdock is a plant whose properties are excellent for treating acne. It limits the proliferation of bacteria, inflammation and excess sebum. A cure of burdock, taken orally with herbal teas or cutaneously with creams, can relieve an outbreak of acne.

According to a study carried out by Japanese researchers, a green tea-based cream would be as effective on acne as certain medications, and would cause fewer side effects (such as drying of the skin). A result which would be explained by the presence of an antioxidant in green tea, which would limit the formation of acne pimples. In addition to creams, do not hesitate to drink green tea regularly, generally good for your health.

Colloidal silver is a solution of purified water containing small particles of silver in suspension. It has antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties that relieve inflammation, irritation and reduce redness and pimples.

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With purifying and antiseptic properties, spearmint is effective against acne. It limits sebum production, tightens pores and promotes healing. Mint is used in several forms: mask, mint hydrosol, peppermint essential oil. According to some studies, mint tea would also be a good remedy against acne!

Powerful antioxidant and natural antibacterial, lemon promotes the healing of lesions and limits the formation of new pimples and blackheads. Before going to sleep, pour lemon juice on a compress and then pat it on the acne-prone areas of your face. Then rinse with clean water.

Apple cider vinegar is very good for oily skin. It cleanses the skin without drying it out, and helps eliminate toxins. It also has a soothing effect, reducing inflammation. Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, shake the preparation and apply it on the acneic areas.

A natural remedy for acne, clary sage essential oil reduces inflammation of the skin. Mix 2 drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba oil, and apply the home remedy with a cotton ball on your face.

Please note that essential oils should not be used on children and pregnant women.

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects on our skin and can help treat acne. Prioritize a diet rich in omega-3s by including products such as salmon, sardines, tuna, nuts, chia seeds, or flax seeds in your meals.

If you want to treat your acne with natural remedies, we advise you to make an appointment with a naturopath. This specialist in natural health therapies will be able to advise you on the most suitable method for your skin problem, depending on its intensity and characteristics. Your naturopath will accompany you in a regular follow-up, until the expected results are obtained.