Acne is considered one of the most frequent skin disorders in the globe. It usually starts in youth and can last into maturity. Some people do not totally overcome acne, although others do as soon as they reach maturity. Acne is not only uncomfortable, but it can also have a negative impact on one’s self-esteem.
In a society where beauty standards have practically reached impossible heights, coping with acne can be a challenging effort. Acne does not go away easily, and you have to deal with people’s perceptions of you. However, there are excellent acne treatments available, and this article will discuss the top five.
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often manifests as pimples, blackheads, or cysts, primarily on the face, back, and shoulders. Various factors, including hormones, bacteria, and diet, can contribute to its development.
Acne, commonly referred to as a pimple, is a skin condition that arises when the skin follicles become obstructed by oil and dead skin cells. The sebum, an oily substance generated by the skin, combines with dead skin and other debris, leading to clogged pores. The clogged pores lead to a heightened growth of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, which may result in skin inflammation and acne. Acne typically presents with a range of symptoms, including whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples, some of which can be more severe than others.
Various factors can contribute to the development of acne, including genetics, diet, stress, hormonal changes, and infections, often linked to an unhygienic lifestyle.
Five effective home remedies for treating acne
1. Ensure you drink enough water
Addressing acne begins with adjustments to one’s lifestyle. Start by boosting the amount of water you drink each day. It is advised that individuals consume a minimum of eight cups of water each day. Nonetheless, it is not a universal scenario, as individual water intake needs can vary significantly. It is essential to consume an adequate amount of water for your body’s needs.
Maintaining hydration helps prevent dry skin, which can lead to irritation or damage, exacerbating acne issues. Nonetheless, sufficient water consumption promotes the regeneration of skin as your acne improves, significantly lowering the likelihood of a recurrence.
2. Consider using apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is produced using fermented apples along with unfiltered juice derived from apples. It includes organic acids, like citric acid, which has been shown to eliminate P. acnes when combined with zinc oxide. A study conducted in 2017 indicated that the lactic acid found in apple cider vinegar might enhance the appearance of acne scars.
To utilize apple cider vinegar, combine 1 part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water. Carefully apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton ball. Let it rest for 5 to 20 seconds. Next, rinse with water and softly pat dry. Perform the process once or twice each day.
It is essential to recognize that, at present, there is no evidence to substantiate the belief that apple cider vinegar can effectively treat acne, despite widespread opinions to the contrary. Certain dermatologists advise against it due to its potential to irritate the skin. If you have highly sensitive skin, it might be advisable to explore alternative options.
3. Use green tea on your skin
Green tea contains a wealth of antioxidants, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their health. Green tea contains polyphenols that have been shown to combat bacteria and decrease inflammation, both of which are significant contributors to acne. In addition to consuming green tea, applying it directly to your skin may offer advantages.
A study conducted in 2020 revealed that the application of green tea extract on the skin may aid in decreasing sebum production and the occurrence of pimples. You have the option to purchase green tea cream or to create your own from scratch. To create your own green tea cream, just steep the green tea in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes. Let it cool, then use a cotton ball to apply the tea to your skin. A spray bottle can serve as an alternative to cotton balls. Next, let it dry and rinse everything thoroughly with clean water, then gently pat dry.
4. Apply aloe vera on your skin.
Aloe vera is a topical plant that produces a transparent gel. This gel has been shown to be good to the skin, which is why it is commonly used in lotions, creams, ointments, and soaps. Aloe vera can be used to treat acne, rashes, abrasions, wounds, and skin inflammations because it includes salicylic acid and sulfur, both of which are powerful skin treatment chemicals.
To prepare aloe vera for acne treatment, scrape the gel from the plant with a spoon. Apply the gel to your skin as a moisturizer. Repeat the method once or twice daily, and you will see results quite quickly. There are also pre-made aloe vera extracts in cosmetic stores, but it is recommended to use the natural plant because processed ones are often diluted with other components that are not beneficial for your skin.
5. Exfoliate regularly.
Exfoliation is merely the removal of the top layer of dead skin cells. It has been shown to be an excellent treatment for acne. Although current research on the advantages of exfoliation is limited, it has long been a popular approach among skincare lovers. There are many exfoliating products on the market, but it is best to prepare your own at home with sugar or salt.
To make your own, combine sugar or salt with equal parts coconut oil. Gently apply the mixture to your skin and rinse well. Repeat this as often as possible. However, excessive exfoliating can cause skin irritation and damage.