What is Acne?
Acne develops when hair follicles are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne is a prevalent condition, and most individuals must have had it at some point in their lives, especially in their teenage years.
Acne can be challenging to treat in extreme cases and often appears when least expected. The good news is that both over-the-counter and prescription medicines can clear up acne and aid in preventing future acne breakout.
Unfortunately, certain acne medications can have unwanted side effects like redness, discolouration or dryness.
Home remedies to treat Acne
Here's how you can treat acne at home.
Apple cider vinegar
The lactic acid in apple cider vinegar may also lessen the visibility of acne scars. There is currently no evidence to support the use of apple cider vinegar for treating Acne, while some of its components may be helpful.
Zinc supplement
Zinc is frequently recommended to reduce acne's redness and lesions because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics.
However, when using the supplement topically, one can anticipate better outcomes.
Honey mask
Honey has been used to treat skin disorders for hundreds of years because it is rich in antioxidants that can unclog pores.
Honey has unique antibacterial properties, which may aid in getting rid of Acne.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil may be able to eradicate P. acnes (Propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria that causes Acne.
Due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, tea tree oil can also aid in reducing the inflammation and redness of Acne.
The evidence for tea tree oil and Acne was reviewed in a 2019 study. The researchers discovered the antibacterial properties of tea tree oil products reduced the prevalence of acne lesions in people.
Green tea
High levels of catechins, a class of polyphenol antioxidants, are present in green tea.
Certain people with acne have too much sebum (natural body oils) and insufficient antioxidants in their pores. The body breaks down chemicals and waste materials that can harm healthy cells with the aid of antioxidants.
Also, the chemicals in green tea may lower the production of sebum in the skin, decrease P. acnes and decrease swelling.
Lemon juice
Citric acid has been shown to reduce sebum production and thereby reduce greasiness of the skin. lemon antiseptic properties destroy P. acnes and other acne-causing bacteria.
Aloe vera moisturiser
Aloe vera may subside acne and stop breakouts due to its inherent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Aloe vera is a fantastic skin moisturiser and protector since it contains sugar molecules, amino acids and zinc. People who experience dry skin after using other anti-acne solutions should especially consider it.
Glycaemic diet
The glycaemic index (GI) of a food is a measure for how quickly the foods elevates blood sugar levels.
Consuming foods with a high GI cause a rise in insulin, which probably raises sebum production. Therefore, foods with a high GI may directly impact development of acne and its severity.
Those who follow a low-glycaemic diet have reduced insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone critical for acne development.
Reduce stress
The American Academy of Dermatology cites stress as a potential contributor to acne flare-ups.
Androgen levels rise in stressful conditions. Acne risk is increased by androgen stimulating hair follicles and oil glands in pores.
Some suggestions for reducing stress are:
- Speaking with loved ones, close friends, a doctor or other reassuring individuals
- Consuming a healthy and balanced diet
- Exercising
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine use
- Awareness of meditation, yoga or deep breathing
Prevention of Acne
Wash your face
Wash your face regularly to remove extra oil, dirt and sweat which helps avoid pimples.
Use a moisturiser
Maintaining moisture in your skin is crucial, even if you suffer from acne. In order to balance out its dryness, the skin produces oil, which can lead to too much sebum and clogged pores.
Limit makeup
Excess and frequent use of makeup can clog pores and lead to outbreaks. If you do wear makeup, make sure it's fragrance- and comedogenic-free to avoid irritating your skin. Completely remove your makeup, especially before going to bed.
Limit sun exposure
Every pimple originates from a clogged pore. As a result, while most acne sufferers see short-term improvement from sun exposure, in the long run, acne grows worse. It is advisable to limit exposure to sun for maintaining the skin.
Don't pop pimples
You run the risk of infection, severe scarring or bleeding by popping pimples. It could worsen your acne problem by causing more inflammation and clogging nearby pores.
Avoid touching your face often
By touching your face, you risk spreading bacteria and pore-clogging pollutants. Keep your hands off your face to avoid spreading acne.
When to see a doctor?
People with moderate to severe acne should consult a professional to get relief. There are acne treatments available.
It might be time to consult a dermatologist for advice if any of the following apply:
- Tried everything, but it doesn't appear to be working
- Acne that is severe and deep beneath the skin
- Acne that has been present for years has recurring breakouts
- Acne in areas such as your thighs or upper arms
- It may be beneficial to see a doctor frequently, even if you only have a minor case of acne.
Conclusion
There are many different home remedies available for treating acne. However, only some treatments will be effective in some patients or situations.
Numerous home remedies for acne are also not supported by scientific evidence, yet some people may find them helpful.
Before using natural treatments for severe, persistent, deep or painful acne lesions, always consult a doctor. Discuss small acne sores with a doctor if they don't improve after receiving primary care or if they keep getting worse.
FAQs
How to remove acne fast at home?
1. Combine three parts water with 1 part apple cider vinegar.
2. After cleaning, gently apply the mixture to the skin with a cotton ball.
After 5 to 20 seconds, rinse it with water, then pat it dry. As necessary, repeat this procedure 1–2 times daily.
How to clean your skin in 2 days?
1. Avoid popping pimples.
2. Wash face twice daily
3. Avoid touching the face
4. Moisturise
5. Always wear sunscreen
6. Focus on calming products
7. Avoid hot water
8. Use gentle cleansers.
