Natural ACNE treatments
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness and the presence of blemishes that could go from pimples to pustules, nodules and cysts depending on the severity of the condition.
Although home remedies may take longer to accomplish the desired results in treating an acne condition, they are very effective and have no negative side effects as opposed to acne medication (tetracycline has been proven to affect the immune system and lower its fighting capabilities and Accutane is extremely toxic and its use affects the mucus of the entire body for many years).
Acne is caused by an acute hormonal imbalance (high levels of testosterone) that will stimulate an over production of sebum. The excess oil gets trapped into a pore and the normal flow of sebum elimination is impaired. Black heads are formed by the oxidation of the oil trapped into a pore whose shape has been altered by the hardening of the sebum.
A build up of cells debris combined with the stagnant oil will clog the pores and facilitate the proliferation of germs resulting in the formation of a pimple. Hormonal imbalance is also to blame for a reduced capacity of the immune system to fight the germs that cause the spreading of the infection.
When treating an acne condition (whether professionally or at home), the same important steps are to be performed; a) suppressing the sebum production and eliminating the proliferation of germs, b) reducing the inflammation to a minimum, c) restoring the skin's capacity to perform at its maximum potential by stimulating metabolic function.
Keep in mind that only one specific problem at the time can be successfully treated so establishing priorities is essential.
Some of the best home remedies for treating acne are already in your own kitchen; they are inexpensive, effective and easy to use.
A) Regulating oil production and eradicating bacteria
Since the overproduction of sebum as well as bacteria proliferation is the major cause of acne, treating this condition should be the first priority.
Cleanser
For cleaning the skin, a mixture of whole Milk and one teaspoon of Baking Soda (dissolved in very little water) will remove impurities and so will a solution of Buttermilk with Tomatoes juice. Occasionally Milk of Magnesia could be used (it will absorb excess oil from the skin's surface), leaving the skin ready for the next step.
Toner
As a toner use a mixture of 2 parts water, 1 part Cucumber juice and 1 part apple Vinegar (antiseptic and antifungal). This will restore the acidity (pH balance) of the skin; germs only thrive in an alkaline environment, so eliminating the favorable conditions of bacteria growth will result in weakening them and will disrupt their multiplication.
Exfoliation
This procedure is an important step of sebum control. By removing the dead cells accumulated on the skin's top layer we can clear the way for the excess sebum to escape. Best enzyme for gentle and effective exfoliation is fresh Papaya left on the skin for about 10 minutes. Also fresh Pineapple gently rubbed on the skin is a great exfoliator.
Peeling
In order to dissolve the sebum inside the pores as well as to restore the altered shape of pores (that will interfere with the normal flow of oil elimination), a mixture of ripe Tomatoes (rich in salicylic acid) and Sour Cream (rich in lactic acid) should be left on the skin for about 10 minutes and than removed with cold water.
After the pores are being treated with this mixture, it is time now to remove the outer layer by using a mixture of 2 spoons of Yogurt and 6 uncoated Aspirins (pound the aspirins into a fine powder and let them dissolve in yogurt for 30 minutes). This mixture contains a combination of salicylic and lactic acid.
Spot treatment
The most effective spot treatment is fresh Garlic applied directly on the affected area. A natural antibiotic with powerful antibacterial properties garlic could also be combined with fresh Cabbage juice and applied as a compress. Tea tree oil is comparable to benzoyl peroxide and will dry out a blemish without causing severe dehydration.
Masks
The possibilities of making home made acne masks are almost limitless. The base should always be an Egg white (bit up to a foam and mixed with the pulp of any acid fruit, except strawberries in case the person is allergic to it).
B) Reducing the inflammation
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition and the sever redness and possible swelling proves it. The most effective anti-inflammatory natural product is Chamomile. It is also a natural antiseptic with moisturizing properties. Used regularly a concentrated chamomile tea with a few drops of lime juice will alleviate the redness of the skin and bring down the swelling.
The greatest anti-inflammatory and moisturizing natural agent is Honey. Applied directly or used as a base for any facial mask of acid fruit, honey will restore softness and improve blood circulation.
All topical irritants should be avoided (especially alcohol and scrubs). It is also recommended to limit or eliminate the caffeine stimulant found in tea, coffee and chocolate. Although it has been scientifically proven that those foods do not create the acne condition, they are however irritants and will aggravate the inflammation.
C) Restoring and stimulating metabolic functions
In order to help the immune system regain its strength and effectively fight bacteria, the use of aromatic oils is recommended. Lavender oil has a calming effect and massaging the scalp and the back of the neck will stimulate blood circulation while inducing relaxation.
Providing the skin with proper nourishment is also very important for speeding up the healing process. A mask of fresh Yeast mixed with enough Milk to form a paste will provide all the vitamins B necessary to ensure perfect metabolic balance. Another effective nourishing and stimulating mask is Honey mixed with Royal Jelly and Propolis.
When left untreated, acne can scar not only ones face, but could also lead to serious psychological problems as excessive shyness and embarrassment that may last for a lifetime.