Acne is a common skin condition that arises when the pores or hair follicles become obstructed by an accumulation of excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This obstruction results in the formation of various skin blemishes, including pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Our skin possesses sebaceous glands that produce a waxy substance known as sebum, which is essential for moisturising and safeguarding our skin and hair.
However, excessive sebum production, primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations, leads to the overproduction of sebum, resulting in clogged pores and the accumulation of dead skin cells. Consequently, numerous skin issues, including acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, can develop. Additional factors that can cause acne include inflammation triggered by hormonal changes such as periods, genetics, dietary factors, and stress.
Acne can be effectively managed through consistent care and lifestyle modifications. Dietary choices and sleep patterns significantly influence acne development. Poor sleep exacerbates inflammation, elevates cortisol levels, and disrupts the body’s natural healing process. A diet rich in sugary foods, processed foods, and dairy products triggers insulin surges, leading to inflammation and increased sebum production. This excess sebum clogs pores. Therefore, it is essential to strive for at least eight hours of sleep per night and incorporate fruits, leafy vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into the diet. Additionally, it is essential to drink ample water and limit sugar intake. These lifestyle adjustments can effectively manage acne breakouts.
Furthermore, there are several homemade remedies that can provide additional support in managing acne. Some natural ingredients possess anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can help reduce breakouts. Here are few natural and easy remedies that can help soothe and manage acne prone skin:
NEEM AND ROSEWATER:
Neem is rich in compounds like nimbin and azadirachtin, which have potent antibacterial properties that kill bacteria responsible for breakouts. Both neem and rosewater have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin and reduce redness associated with active pimples. A neem and rosewater pack will help draw out impurities from the skin and purify it, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and clean.
Take one tablespoon of neem powder and rosewater. Mix the ingredients until a paste forms. Apply the paste to your face and leave it on for fifteen minutes. Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
TEA TREE OIL AND ALOE VERA:
Tea tree oil is an effective ingredient in combating acne. It contains terpinen-4-ol, a natural monoterpene alcohol with anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties effectively target acne-causing bacteria, regulate sebum production, and alleviate redness. Aloe vera, on the other hand, is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and contains glycoproteins and polysaccharides that soothe irritated skin, reduces redness and provides hydration. Tea tree is a germ fighting ingredient and aloe vera heals and moisturises the skin. When used together, tea tree oil and aloe vera pack creates well balanced treatment for acne.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and apply them to the affected areas. Leave the mixture on for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it off.
TURMERIC AND HONEY:
Turmeric contains anti bacterial and anti inflammatory properties, particularly an active compound called curcumin which helps reduce swelling and redness. Honey contains enzymes that create a low level of hydrogen peroxide, which effectively kills bacteria and prevents infection in pores. Honey is also a natural humectant which means it draws moisture into the skin and locks it in. This will prevent the skin from dryness and help heal acne scars.
Take one tablespoon of turmeric powder and two tablespoons of honey. Combine these ingredients into a paste and apply it to your face. Leave the paste on for fifteen to twenty minutes, then rinse it off.
MULTANI MITTI(FULLER’S EARTH) AND APPLE CIDER VINEGAR:
Multani mitti, a highly absorbent and mineral-rich clay, effectively absorbs excess sebum from the skin’s surface, preventing the formation of clogged pores. Apple cider vinegar, rich in acetic acid, possesses antimicrobial properties that eliminate bacteria and fungi from the skin. Both ingredients possess antibacterial properties. Multani mitti functions as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and impurities that accumulate on the skin. Apple cider vinegar’s acidity helps restore the skin’s pH balance and acts as a toner, shrinking pores and tightening the skin.
Combine 2 tablespoons of Multani mitt powder and half a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Aloe vera or rosewater can also be added for hydration. Blend the ingredients until a paste forms. Apply it on the affected areas and keep it on for about 15 minutes then rinse it off gently with lukewarm water.
Prior to applying any of the ingredients to your skin, it is important to conduct a patch test on your wrist or behind your ear to ascertain for any allergies, redness, or rashes. Acne-fighting ingredients are highly potent and may cause inflammation or irritation. Therefore, patch test the home made pack to ensure that the remedy is suitable for your skin type, thereby facilitating the attainment of radiant and healthy skin.
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