Acne is a skin problem that gives people sleepless nights. A simple outbreak leaves you searching frantically for its cure and often you end up being frustrated by the multitude of conflicting suggestions. Let us have a simple discussion on acne and how to combat them with natural acne treatment.
Causes of acne?
Sebaceous glands, lying just beneath the skin produce sebum, an oily secretion that moisturizer the skin. In certain situations, when sebum is secreted in large quantities, like during puberty, the excess sebum cannot be cleared and it blocks the pores of the skin. This causes acne.
Types of acne
Acne are generally divided into following types
Comedones – Certain other reasons, like too much shedding of cells aggravate the problem and sebum combining with the dead cells creates comedones or plugs or comedos.
Whitehead acne – When the follicle shows up as a whitish small bump it is called whitehead.
Blackhead acne – When the comedo opens up, the top of the plug gets darkened which is known as blackhead.
Pimple – When blackheads or whiteheads get infected by bacteria pimples are formed.
If you unfortunately develop acne do not fret over it as it may worsen the situation. Remember, almost 80% of people in the age group of 11 to 30 suffer from it. Even older people also suffer from acne so there is no reason to panic.
Precaution for acne
Let us first discuss what not to do if you have got acne. Do not pick or scrub them as they may leave scars on your face. Even they may lead to severe infection also.
- Do not pick or scrub acne
How to treat acne naturally or acne remedies.
Clear your oily skin to prevent acne.
- Proper cleaning of your face is must if you have acne. Use a soap which suits your skin. Oily skins are more prone to acne so using the right kind of soap will leave your skin properly hydrated. You can use soaps with sulfur which are specially made for acne.
- Try to avoid make up and if you really have to wear one, ensure that it is water based and do not forget to remove it before going to sleep. Your skin needs to breathe properly.
- Go for lukewarm water while bathing and end it with cool water. The warm water will clear the pores and cool water will shut the pores. Dirt and bacteria will not be able to clog the pores.
- Do not allow your hair to fall on face. Hair contains oil which may lead to acne outbreaks. If you have dandruff get rid of them as they may cause infection to your skin also. Your hair must be washed every day and kept clean.
Healthy diet prevents acne by ensuring healthy skin
- A healthy diet will ensure a healthy skin and bolster the immunity system which can fight off bacteria.
Increase your water intake. This will keep your skin hydrated and make it healthy. Water will flush out toxins from your body. - Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. A healthy diet will ensure a healthy skin.
- Have carrots which are rich in beta-carotene i.e. vitamin A. This vitamin fortifies the protective tissues of the skin and prevents acne. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps in flushing out toxins from the body.
- Chromium works wonder in healing infections. So include this in your diet. You can take supplements also.
- Eat zinc rich food as zinc is an essential element of sebaceous glands. Proper level of zinc in your diet will prevent acne.
Reduce stress as stress triggers acne causing factors
- Stress is a major reason behind acne outbreak. Learn to manage your stress level. Select any form of exercise which you can enjoy. A walk in the neighborhood park, a chat with a friend, a good book can alleviate your mood and lessen your stress.
- Have enough sleep. Those 40 winks will go a long way in rejuvenating your skin and make it look healthy.
Hygiene is best way to prevent acne
- Wash your clothes and towels carefully. Bacteria can accumulate there and cause outbreaks of acne.
- Change pillow covers and bed covers regularly. Your pillow cover absorbs your facial oil and bacteria thrive in it.
Medical treatment for acne
If the outbreak is severe then you may consult a dermatologist. Several good acne products are available in the market which are quite effective. Most of the creams and lotions contain benzyl peroxide which can treat mild to moderate acne. But for severe outbreak you may require topical antibiotics. Your doctor will be the best judge.
I hope these simple tips will help you to fight acne and in no time you will flaunt a blemish less skin to the world.
Possibly Related Posts:
- Types of Acne: An Overview
- After pregnancy hair loss
- Types of acne – causes and acne treatment
- How to get rid of blackheads on nose
- How to treat acne Conglobata – acne conglobata treatment and remedies is possible