Acne is never a welcome sight; they can be embarrassing, and always seem to pop up at the worst possible time. Teenagers get acne more often than other age groups because of hormonal changes, although adults may have breakouts as well. Menstruation in women can also cause and/or increase acne. Keep reading for some quick homemade remedies for acne:
Makeup
Oil in makeup can make skin breakout more. Wear makeup that does not contain oil. Read the ingredients and look for a water-based or “non comedogenic” preparation. If you don’t need the makeup, skip it! Your skin is better off without it.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C can help fight the bacteria that causes acne, according to Reader’s Digest Vitamins & Herbs. Zinc can be taken with Vitamin C to help reduce inflammation of the skin and to regulate hormones. It is possible for zinc to inhibit the body’s intake of copper, so ask your doctor about a mineral copper supplement if you have been taking zinc for longer than a month.
Fatty Acids & Vitamin A
Oily sebum is what clogs pores and causes acne. Essential fatty acids and Vitamin A will help the body dilute the production of oily sebum. However, Vitamin A could increase the risk of bone fractures, warns The Reader’s Digest Vitamins & Herbs. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not take any more than 5000 IU of vitamin A per day.
Washing
Sometimes soap and water is not enough. Wash your skin routinely with a medicated cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. If you do not possess medicated cleanser, use a gentle cleanser. Even though it may be tempting, never squeeze whiteheads. This will worsen inflammation and possible cause a skin infection. It is common for acne medications to dry the skin. If that is the case, apply moisturizer.
Detox
A Body Detox Plan recommended by Joshi’s Holistic Life Plan requires the avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, fried foods, sugar, and animal protein. This diet targets acne caused by hormonal, stress, and chemicals. Aloe vera juice or spiced teas containing equal amounts of cumin, coriander, and fennel can also help clear up acne, according to the Body Detox.
Blackheads
Unlike whiteheads, blackheads can be squeezed by the skin surrounding it and not result in a pimple. Since blackheads are caused by blocked pores, squeezing the solid material out will help clean the pore. Of course, always be sure that your fingers are clean before squeezing the blackhead!
Try these home remedies for acne to keep your breakouts at bay.