You dreaded acne as a teenager, and couldn’t wait to get older so it would go away. What if it doesn’t? According to an April 2008 study by the Mayo Clinic, acne is most likely caused by hormonal changes and can occur throughout a woman’s life. While a dermatologist can treat acne with antibiotics and other medicines, there are certain herbal remedies you can take and make at home to alleviate this embarrassing and sometimes painful condition.
Masks and Cleansers
Mix some natural yogurt with some finely ground oatmeal and apply it as a mask. Once it dries wash it off with warm water, or puree a ripe tomato, apply and leave it on your skin for an hour before rinsing. Another acne fighting mask you can utilize is to blend a cucumber, rub gently into your skin and cover with a very warm wash cloth. Lie back for 15 to 30 minutes and relax, then rinse your face with lukewarm water.
Topical Solutions
Cut a clove of garlic and rub the clove on your blemish, or mix either essential oil of 1/2 oz. tea or lavender with 5 oz. of witch hazel and apply each night before bed. Another home application is to blend 1 cup cabbage with 1 cup witch hazel until it is liquefied, then strain and apply as a lotion. Aloe vera is another traditional home remedy for acne. Simply slit a stem lengthwise and apply the gel directly to your skin.
Diet and Environment
Eat at least four servings each of fresh fruits and vegetables and drink at least 64 oz. of water daily to detoxify your skin. Be sure to avoid oily, fried, spicy and sugary foods. Constipation can cause acne as can stress so avoid both. Try changing your makeup, soaps and lotions to see if a particular brand may be contributing to your acne problem. If body acne is a problem, try switching to an allergen-free laundry soap and softener.
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