Acne is a persistent problem that people can face at any age, not just the teenage years. There are many types of medicated face washes and topical or oral medications to treat acne, but many people cannot or do not want to use them for various reasons. In that case, there are some natural remedies for acne that might be effective.
Keep in mind that natural remedies for acne do not work for everyone, the same way that medicated treatments do not work well for everyone. Some acne is particularly painful and has the potential to cause scarring; if this is the case, it may be beneficial to visit the dermatologist for more aggressive treatment. In addition, if acne seems to appear suddenly and unexpectedly, it may be a good idea to determine if any new skin products or detergents could be causing a reaction.
One of the best natural remedies for acne is to reexamine the diet. For some people, sugary, fatty foods may cause acne, and dairy products can be a leading cause as well. It might be a good idea to cut back on sugary snacks, deep fried foods, and soda, switching instead to healthier options such as fruit, vegetables, and water; take a multivitamin as well. Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals found in fruit and vegetables can help to heal blemishes. Drinking enough water and eating a healthy diet can make anyone's skin look better and healthier, not just acne sufferers.
In addition, it is important to cleanse the face regularly with a gentle cleanser. Experts generally recommend twice a day. Do not over-cleanse the face, which can actually encourage the production of oil and increase acne. Change pillowcases regularly to make sure they are clean and not transmitting dirt and oil back onto the face. Other natural remedies for acne include simple steps such as keeping the hair off the face, avoiding touching the face, and avoiding pore-clogging makeup as much as possible.
Though it may be tempting, do not pick or squeeze at a blemish. This can cause scarring and make acne worse. Other natural remedies for acne include topical application of natural ingredients. Some people find a face mask made of honey to be effective, as well as the application of tea tree oil directly onto the blemish. Both honey and tea tree oil are effective at killing the bacteria within the blemish. Some experts also recommend taking a zinc supplement, but be sure to follow the directions on the bottle.
