Over the centuries, acne has been attributed to many causes from poor hygiene to a faulty diet. But these things don’t really cause acne though they may aggravate it. The primary cause of breakouts is hormones. That’s why we have our worst flare-ups in our teens and it generally subsides as we age. Don’t want to wait that long? Follow these suggestions and natural solutions for acne for immediate relief:
Diet is one of a few natural solutions for Acne
Only radical change will produce results. Some people saw a vast improvement in the condition of their skin after eliminating sugar, white flour, and all unhealthy fats from their diets. Not up for this? Neither was I. Here’s what you can do instead:
Natural Supplements for Acne
Although there are many supplements touted to alleviate acne, zinc is the most effective breakout preventer and healer among them. I use zinc gluconate, so I know that works, but there are other forms available. Take 15 milligrams daily. Zinc should be taken separately from copper as they interfere with each other’s absorption. Also, if you decide to take more than 15 mg a day, you will need to take a copper supplement as well to avoid creating a deficiency of this mineral.
Maca is a root vegetable grown in the Peruvian Andes. It is dried, powdered, and sold loose in bags or capsules. Maca root contains zinc and many other minerals. It’s an effective hormone balancer that will improve skin appearance within days.
Start with one capsule or half a teaspoon per day and increase gradually until you get the desired results. There are no harmful side effects associated with the use of maca. If you take too much too soon it may have a stimulant effect much the same as too much caffeine would. This will subside in a few hours.
Hygiene
Acne does not result from poor hygiene; but anything that irritates the skin, or coats it, will aggravate acne. Wash your face with soap just strong enough to remove the excess oil but not harsh enough to strip your skin as this will only cause it to produce more oil. Avoid moisturizers. The proprietor of a natural body care shop in the Virgin Islands once told me that If you use the right cleaning product, one that is not too harsh, you won’t need them. She was right. I switched to cleansing milk for a while and that solved my problem.
Be careful what kind of make-up you use. I find that, with my sensitive skin, I can’t use any on more than an occasional basis or I break out. Whatever you use, be sure to thoroughly remove it before bedtime.
A toner or clarifying agent can be used when you want a “deeper” clean. Don’t use straight alcohol, it’s too drying. Try witch hazel. Burt’s Bees Wild Lettuce Toner is nice too.
Keep your hands and your hair away from your face as much as possible to avoid transferring oils and bacteria from them onto your skin.
If you follow these tips, you should have clearer skin in no time.
