Fight Acne Naturally

by Jaime McLeod | Monday, August 16th, 2010 | From: Healthy Living

acne is a part of life. Nearly everyone experiences acne outbreaks at some point during his or her life, particularly during adolescence. While most people's complexions clear up during their early 20s, some people struggle with acne well into adulthood. For others, acne flare-ups can occur during particularly stressful times. Though acne is simply a medical condition, like any other, many people feel embarrassed by breakouts. This social stigma can be one of the worst aspects of dealing with problem skin.
The most severe cases of acne will require attention from a dermatologist, but there are some simple household remedies for this most common ailment.
One of the most effective natural remedies for fighting acne is tea tree oil, an essential oil obtained from the narrow leafed tea tree, a member of the myrtle family native to Australia. Tea tee oil has bacteria-fighting properties that can help to cure acne and other skin disorders, such as dandruff and psoriasis. Unlike benzoyl peroxide, the most common commercial treatment for acne, tea tree oil won't cause the skin to dry out, peel, or flake. Just place up to 10 drops of tea tree oil into about a cup of warm water and use it to rinse off the face with a soft washcloth twice daily.
Here are some other effective home remedies to promote healthy skin



:
In the Kitchen
A number of everyday foods around your house can be used to help cleanse the skin and fight acne outbreaks. One of the most popular is lemon juice, applied to the face with a tissue or cotton ball before bed. Many people also swear by rubbing raw garlic on their faces once or twice a day. Eating plenty of raw garlic – up to three whole cloves per day – can also cleanse impurities from your body to prevent future outbreaks. Be careful, though, because garlic, whether used internally or externally, can cause your body to give off a pungent odor. Pastes of either grated cucumber or tomato pulp, applied for about a half an hour before bathing, can also help.
In the Medicine Cabinet
Many vitamins and minerals can help to promote clear healthy skin from the inside out. Among those most recognized to promote healthy skin are Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Zinc. The gel found inside the leaves of the Aloe Vera plant can also help to fight acne. Aloe Vera has both anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, to both fight the cause of acne and soothe the skin. Drinking Aloe Vera juice can also remove impurities from the digestive tract, which will in turn reduce the amount of bacteria exiting through the pores.
Other Things to Consider
Always drink at least 64 ounces of water per day and eat plenty of fresh fruit and leafy green vegetables. Be sure to get regular exercise and a full night's sleep every night. Find productive ways to manage stress. Avoid touching your face as much as possible, and keep your hair clean and out of your face. Never pick or squeeze pimples and blackheads. Avoid oily lotions or make-up. If you must wear make-up, keep it light and choose a brand that is hypoallergenic and/or made from natural ingredients.










Jaime McLeod is a contributing editor for the Farmers' Almanac. She is a longtime journalist who has written for a wide variety of newspapers, magazines, and websites, including MTV.com. She enjoys the outdoors, loves eating organic food, and is interested in all aspects of natural wellness.