Acne Understanding

Acne, in one way or another, is formed. This helps in developing a proper treatment since understanding the cause of any condition helps define why it occurs.


Causes of Acne

Acne is due to hair follicles blocking from oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. There are several causes that trigger the acne, including but not limited to:

  • Change in Hormone: The fluctuations of hormones usually increase oil productions like when one is at puberty, menstruating, and pregnant.
  • Diet: High sugar and carbohydrate diets often activate acne.
  • Hormonal causes: The hormonal fluctuation is a new common problem which might trigger the onset of acne attacks.
  • Weather: Changes of seasons, particularly during winters, tend to cause dry skin and overproduction of oil.

Types of Acne

  • Whiteheads: Pores that are closed appear as tiny small white bumps.
  • Blackheads: Oxidation of the pores when they have been opened, so they appear black in color.
  • Papules: Red small bumps inflamed and sensitive on touch
  • Pustules: Just like papules, but it has some pus
  • Cysts: Deep swellings under the skin which are painful; can scar

Natural Home Remedies for Acne

 

1. Tea Tree Oil

Also, due to the reasons of containing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory nature the tea tree oil is used for treatment of mouth ulcers and acne at home.

 

Application

  • Dilute the tea tree oil in a ratio of 1:9 mixed with any carrier oil including coconut oils or JoJoba oil and the solution formed can be applied as a massage on the acne affected areas.
  • Apply the mixture with a cotton swab on to the affected areas.
  • Leave it on for 30 minutes and wash

2. Aloe Vera

The cooling and curing elements of aloe vera decrease the redness and inflammation caused due to the breakout.

 

How to Use:

  • Apply the gel directly on the acne infected part
  • Leave overnight and wash it in the morning

3. Honey and Cinnamon Mask

Both honey and cinnamon have a degree of antimicrobial that kills break-out causing bacteria.

 

How to Apply:

  • 2 tsp. honey mixed with 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • Apply the mixture on face, especially on the spot of acne
  • Apply it for 10-15 minutes on the face and rinse with warm water.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

And as discussed already in this paper, ACV regulates the skin pH also the ACV has antibacterial properties on the skin.

 

How to Use:

  • Mix 1 part of ACV with 3 parts of water
  • Apply with cotton ball on the skin
  • Let it sit on the skin for 10-15 minutes before washing off. Perform this treatment 2-3 times a week.

5. Green Tea

This is actually good tea beverage prepared with green tea; they contain antioxidants which work to reduce inflammation and consequently acne on your skin.

 

How to Apply

  • Steep a cup of green tea and allow it to cool
  • Apply it directly to the face by cotton ball or put it in a spray bottle and spray it
  • leave it for about 30 minutes then wash it off

6. Neem Leaves

The broad application of Neem leaves through traditional medicine is due to its wide ranging use as an antibacterial and anti-inflammation agent.

 

Preparation

  • Boil neem leaves in water then cool it down
  • Apply the cooled-down neem-infused water on to clean your face
  • Or use neem paste on fresh neem leaves and apply it on your body. Let it be on your body for 30 minutes, then remove.

7. Turmeric Paste

Curcumin is soluble polyphenol flavonoids Compounds present in turmeric that exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and has antimicrobial activity.

 

How to Use It

  • 1 tsp. of turmeric powder mixed with water or yogurt to form a paste and put it on your skin and let it be on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Warm water only. Perform this remedy 1-2 times a week.

8. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has some natural astringency properties which can help to reduce oiliness and acne.

How to Use: apply via cotton ball to all places affected.

Apply to the area for about 10 minutes or so, then wash off. Note :keep away from direct sunlight once applied as it will cause heightened sensitivity.

 

View More: Chest Acne 7 Ways to Get Rid of It


9. Oatmeal Mask

Oatmeal Absorbs excess oils and calms irritated skin.

 

How to Apply:

  • Boil oatmeal, let it cool.
  • Apply it on the face once cooled and keep on the face for 20-30 minutes
  • Wash off with warm water.

10. Baking Soda

  • Dead skin cells could be wiped out with baking Soda, and it will effectively work at absorbing excess oil. How to Apply:
  • 2 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with some water, making a paste.
  • Apply to the affected areas and leave for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing.

11. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is a mimic of your skin's natural oils and can better help to stabilize your oil production.

 

Use

  • Just a drop or two on your face after washing your face with its regular cleanser.
  • Apply it at night, rubbing it gently into your skin.

12. Dietary Changes

The health of your skin depends solely on what your diet puts in your skin. The consumption of these foods may enhance the management of acne:

  • Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids. This includes foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. These have been implicated in reducing inflammation as the best treatment.
  • Consumer Products and Antioxidants: Fresh fruits and vegetables with a lot of antioxidants include berries, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
  • Dietary modifications: It might decrease the incidence of insulin spikes that is one of the acne causes due to the sugar-based food and other refined carb intake.

Pre-winter Acne prevention program

 

1. Moisturize

Basically every individual requires moisturization in the skin during winter. To avoid dryness, moisturize your skin with a non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for your skin type.

 

2. Steer Clear of Harsh Products

Avoid harsh scrubs and astringent products since these are upsetting to your skin and aggravate the acne. Hydrating products are preferred instead.

 

3. Non-Comedogenic Makeup

If you have makeup, ensure it is non-comedogenic so that it will not clog pores.

 

4. Hydrate Within and Without

Drink plenty of water so that you are hydrated within and outside your skin. Herbal teas and broths can be helpful too.

 

5. Fewer Hot Showers

Hot showers, very cozy for a winter evening are quite stripping off your skin's oil glands. Try lukewarm water instead.

 

6. Stress Management

Stress can do its part of influencing your hormones as well. Pitiful acne situation can be aggravated by hormonal failures. Take time to learn stress coping mechanisms for example; doing yoga, taking some time off to meditate or even practice deep breathing techniques.

 

7. Sleep Adequately

Spend 7 to 9 hours on your bed every night. It is important to get some sleep when you want to maintain healthy skin and keep your skin well-nourished.

 

Bonus Tips for Your Skin

 

1. Patch Test New Remedies

Before trying any new remedy, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for adverse reactions.

 

2. Be Consistent

Most natural remedies take some time to show their effects. Consistency is the key, so stick with the remedies you choose for a few weeks.

 

3. Consult a Dermatologist

 Consult a dermatologist if your acne remains or worsens following the above remedies. There is still professional advice and other forms of treatment in waiting for you.

 

Conclusion

Winter doesn't need to be the war of acne. Through natural home remedies and even preventive measure, you would easily conquer acne thereby keeping the skin healthy and hydrated. Take your time with your skincare routine because the result of natural remedies takes time to be seen. Through dedication and care, now get that clear and radiant skin even in the freezing months. The winter glow and nourishment of your skin from the blessings of your future self!


Please book an appointment with the Best Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.