Acne & Home Treatment

Acne is a common skin condition in the world that can affect male and female both. It can develop anywhere in the body but particularly on face, shoulders, back, chest and arms. It is a chronic skin condition that can lead to

• whiteheads
• blackheads
• pimples
• cysts

Acne can affect people of all age groups. Small holes in skin are connected to oil glands lying under skin.These glands are responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance. When the holes in skin get clogged with oil and dead skin cells then acne starts. These happened for hormonal fluctuations specially during puberty and pregnancy, oral pills or a diet high in refined sugars or stress.

Cause of Acne

Certain factors can increase the amount of sebum and that leads to acne and pimple developing. Here are some factors:

Hormonal changes: 

Acne is particularly common in puberty because hormone levels fluctuate significantly during this period.

Stress: 

There is a link between stress and outbreaks of acne, but the reasons for this are unclear.

Medication: 

Some types of medication can cause acne as a side effect. Examples include certain steroids, anticoagulants, barbiturates, or lithium.

Hygiene: 

Not washing the hair and face regularly can lead to oily deposits on the forehead and blockages that prompt acne.

Hair products: 

Some hair products, such as gels, oils, or waxes, are linked to breakouts of acne that is known as pomade acne.

Skin irritation: 

Using makeup on the forehead or wearing clothing such as hats, can irritate the forehead and also lead to acne. Frequently touching the forehead can also aggravate the skin and trigger acne.

Remedies of Acne

Balanced diet

A balanced diet, consisting of essential minerals and nutrients, is not only good for your health, but also your skin. Eating junk food, carbs and not eating on time can all have adverse effects on the skin in the form of pimples and breakouts. Occasionally okay to indulge in junk food, try incorporating fruits and vegetables to help regularize your diet. Do not forget to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water daily.

Reduce Stress

A major reason for acne is stress. When under pressure, the sensitive skin produces stress hormones that stimulate oil glands producing more testosterone thereby resulting in increased oil production and clogged pores. Make sure you spend at least 15 to 20 minutes every day doing yoga. This will help revive your body and mind which in turn helps bring down your stress levels.

Right Hair Products

The hair products that you use on a daily basis, from your shampoo, conditioner to sprays, gels, etc. contain products like sulfates, silicons, and other chemical agents that might be harmful for the skin and trigger acne. Try not to let these hair products come in contact with your skin. After using these products, clean your face, neck and chest area and ensure no residue is left behind.

Wash Face Properly

It is important to use good medicated cleansers twice a day, but hard cleansers and washing too frequently can make the acne worse and face drier. Sleeping with makeup on or not washing your face after a sweaty day, also results into an acne breakout. Keep your face clean and wash it once or twice a day with mild soap or face wash. Make sure to wash your face with a cleanser every night before going to bed. In case you have been affected by acne, then skip the facial scrub. Use separate towels for your hair and face after washing.

Change Pillowcases

Dirty pillowcases and bed sheets can very well be the cause of acne breakouts. Dirty bedding can cause dirt to settle on our face and skin and end up in clogging pores. The cleaner your bedding, the happier your skin will be. Try changing your pillow cover once in four days. Moreover, it is best to choose a pillow cover that is made out of natural fabric.

Right Detergent

Some chemicals in your laundry detergent can actually be too harsh for the skin. Your skin might then react to the residue left behind on the fabric, resulting in breakouts on your face and other body parts. If you are puzzled about the cause of your acne, you might want to consider changing your detergent.

Clean After Workouts

Sweating loosens up all the grime and makeup (if applied) on the face and if it is not removed properly, it might clog the pores resulting in acne breakouts. Never skip washing and cleansing your face and body after an intense or sweaty workout session. Just a quick splash of water will not do the trick, instead use a mild face wash.

Right Skin Products

Stick a particular brand once you have found something that suits your skin. Make sure your skin gets to breathe. Refrain from always using makeup to cover up the acne. In case you can not do without makeup, use water-based cosmetics instead. Always look for natural products since chemicals can cause an acne breakout.

Avoid Body Creams

Many body care products can give you acne on your face. This could specifically be the case if your skin is sensitive and the facial lotion you generally use is oil and fragrance-free, and then you reach for a scented and thicker body lotion in the hope to achieve the same hydrating results. Stop using body products over your face. Feel free to use face cream on dry patch of body, but using a body lotion on your face is a big no.

Reduce Dairy Products

Dairy products, especially milk, are all high sources of hormone IGF which in turn causes insulin spike in making the liver produce IGF 1(Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1). This in turn can cause excess sebum production causing more clogged pores and thus, the acne. Try to reduce your dairy product consumption for better results.

Natural Remedies of Acne

• Cut down on caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates, all of which can activate the hormones that encourage your sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which in turn contributes to acne.
• Stock up on fresh fruit and green leafy vegetable, including carrots, celery, apples and ginger. Throw them into a salad or blend them into a smoothie!
• Pomegranate: Loaded with antioxidants that prevent blocking of pores, this fruit can definitely give you clean and clear skin. Eat a bowlful of pomegranate seeds or squeeze them into some refreshing juice that can open up those pores and let your skin breathe.
• Papaya: This fruit contains enzymes which can help rejuvenate your skin. Eat a few slices of raw papaya for breakfast or as a quick snack to help repair the damage done to your skin by dust and pollution.
• Strawberries: These are rich in salicylic acid which helps keep the skin clean and fresh. It’s not for nothing that most face washes have strawberry as their main ingredient. They nip acne in the bud and stop those ugly bumps from imploding all over your face.
• Oranges: These and other citrus fruits are rich sources of antioxidants that help detoxify the skin from deep within by reducing excessive estrogen. Moreover, the vitamin C content in these fruits is also high and helps keep oil and grime at bay, thereby preventing acne at the outset.
• Increase the intake of anti-oxidant rich foods such as green tea, Aloe Vera juice, etc. Try to incorporate at least three portions each of the following into your weekly diet: carrots (for beta carotene), fish (for essential fatty acids), avocados (for vitamin E), and pomegranates (to fortify blood).
• Cut down on metabolism-busting factors like deep fried or starchy foods, yeast products, sweets, alcohol and caffeine. You could substitute white bread for whole-wheat whenever possible.
• Avoid spicy food, fried food, fermented food, salt and citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits.
• Drink lots of water, eight to ten glasses, so that your system is well hydrated and the toxins from your body are flushed out. You can also put it a few leaves of neem or tulsi so that it keeps your stomach clean.

Home Remedies of Acne

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. It is known for its ability to fight many types of bacteria and viruses. Apple cider vinegar contains several organic acids that have been shown to kill acne.

How to Use:

• Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (use more water for sensitive skin).
• After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton ball.
• Let sit for 5–20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
• Repeat this process 1–2 times per day, as needed.

Honey & Cinnamon Mask

Both honey and cinnamon are excellent sources of antioxidants. Studies have found applying antioxidants to the skin is more effective at reducing acne. Honey and cinnamon also have the ability to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, which are two factors that trigger acne.

How to Use:

• Mix 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon cinnamon together to form a paste.
• After cleansing, apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 10–15 minutes.
• Rinse the mask off completely and pat your face dry.

Garlic & Honey

Garlic is known for its antibacterial,  anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. When applied on acne, it helps clear skin.

How to Use:

Mix crushed garlic with honey and dab it on acne. Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash.

Neem & Rose Water

Neem has antibacterial properties and is used in several skin and hair care products. 

How to Use:

Make a thick paste using a handful of fresh neem leaves. To this, add a few drops of rose water. Apply over affected areas and let dry. Wash with a mild face wash and wipe dry. Follow with a moisturizer.

Aloe Vera & Turmeric

Turmeric is an excellent exfoliating agent and contains anti-bacterial properties, on other hand Aloe Vera helps soothe the skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Together, they help in clearing skin and fading acne scars. 

How to Use:

Using a spoon, extract some fresh aloe Vera gel from a cut leaf and add a pinch or two of turmeric. After mixing well, apply directly over the affected areas and leave on for a few minutes. Wash and wipe dry.

Egg Whites

Egg whites contain albumin and lysozyme, which have antiviral and anti-bacterial properties. Additionally, egg whites can tighten your skin and clean its pores, removing excess oil, dirt, and bacteria. 

How to Use:

First you have to separate the egg whites from two eggs, then mix and apply evenly on your skin using a brush. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and wash with cold water.

Milk and Nutmeg

Nutmeg is known to contain essential oils, which is beneficial for the skin. Additionally, it also has antiseptic properties which help fight pimples and acne. Milk, on the other hand helps moisturize the skin.

How to Use:

Take one teaspoon of nutmeg and mix it with one teaspoon of raw milk to make a paste. After 15 to 20 minutes, wash and wipe dry. You can also add a few saffron strands to get an instant glow.

Prevent Acne During Travelling

Dos	Don’ts
Prepare the skin two to three days before you plan to take a trip by moisturizing regularly.	Avoid using moisturizer on your face while on the go as the air will rob your skin of its moisture.
Before leaving home, cleanse your face with a gentle or mild cleanser to help maintain pH balance.	Say no to harsh cleansers that can dry the skin even more.
It is best to leave your skin makeup free while travelling.	Avoid touching the face without washing your hands as everything you touch can get transferred to your face.
Ensure that you eat healthy and drink lots of water along with healthy snacks like fresh fruits and nuts.	Avoid fatty, oil or greasy foods. Cut down on your caffeine and alcohol intake, since the skin is more likely to react to them and become dry and dull.
Get proper sleep by having a good nap on the flight, bus or train to help reduce the travel stress.
Keep dabbing the oil on your face with a soft tissue or wet wipe.
Apply a hydrating serum to help seal the moisture in and not let the skin go dry.

Takeaway

Acne is a common problem with a number of underlying causes. Stress, poor hygiene, hair products, makeup, and skin irritation can all make a person's acne worse. Fortunately, many natural remedies can also be effective. The home remedies listed in this article may not work for everyone, but they just might be worth a try.

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