Natural Remedies for Acne
Saturday, May 31st, 2008In most cases acne has been caused because the sebaceous glands, which are found at the base of the hair follicles on the skin, are secreting far too much sebum (oil). Once too much of this produced the pores on the skin can become blocked and spots begin to appear. Doctors may prescribe medications that can help to treat the condition but can cause some side effects. However an alternative would be for those who wish to is use some kinds of herbal remedies for acne instead.
In this article we take a look at some of the various different types of herbal remedies that you yourself may want to consider using for treating your acne. But if you do it is important that you actually speak with your doctor first in case there is some other underlying medical condition causing your problem.
1. Aloe Vera - Of all the kinds of herbal remedies available for treating acne this is an effective one. As the plant contains both anti-bacterial and astringent properties which can help to fight off the bacteria causing the acne to erupt. Plus it also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the swelling.
2. Calendula - This particular herb contains properties that can help to promote healing qualities in the tissue of a person’s skin as well as containing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Normally in order to treat acne the herb is made up into a cream, which can then be applied directly to the skin, or it can be infused in water and then used as a facial wash. Another way of allowing this particular herb to be absorbed by the skin is by placing it in hot water and then placing your face above the bowl and letting the steam rise up towards the skin.
3. Lavender - Just like all the herbs that we mention in this article this particular one contains both anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help to fight the bacteria that are causing the acne. As with all treatments we mention here this needs to be applied topically (directly) to the affected area and the essential oil should be mixed with water or carrier fluid before it is applied.
4. Tea Tree Oil - This is a very effective remedy for acne as it contains antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which can help to treat the acne bacteria. In most cases it is most effective when the essential oil is mixed with water or a carried fluid and then applied directly to the areas of skin that have been affected by the acne.
As well as the herbal remedies that we have mentioned above there other natural ones that you may want to consider trying as well. There is walnut leaf, which has good astringent properties and is most effective when used as a wash on the skin. Whilst witch hazel is another effective treatment as it like many of the others contains both anti-bacterial and astringent properties.
What is important to remember however is that these herbal remedies for acne help to treat the condition from outside. You therefore also need to look at what is actually causing the increased production of the oil (sebum) in the first place. Generally dietary and lifestyle habits can be a reason for a person who is suffering from this skin condition. So making changes to both their diet and lifestyle can further help to improve the problem.