Natural remedies and OTC solutions for acne treatment and prevention

Acne is the most common problem among teenagers. Let us understand more about acne causes and remedies for this problem in this post.

Understanding Acne: Causes and Types

Your skin’s overproduction of sebum, a thick, oily substance, leads to acne breakouts. There are two primary types of acne: acne vulgaris and cystic acne. Acne vulgaris appears as blackheads, whiteheads, or red blemishes on the face, chest, shoulders, or back. Cystic acne presents as painful cysts or firm, painless lumps.

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, or due to birth control pills often increase sebum production and trigger outbreaks. Other contributing factors include emotional stress, friction from clothing, certain medications, and genetics.

Acne (Image Courtesy: Kjerstin Michaela Noomi Sakura Gihle Martinsen Haraldsen from Pixabay)

Over-the-Counter Solutions: Benzoyl Peroxide and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids

To combat acne, over-the-counter creams or gels formulated with benzoyl peroxide are effective. Benzoyl peroxide mildly irritates the skin, encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells and clearing clogged pores. Additionally, it eliminates bacteria that infect the blocked pores.

Another option is alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid, which can be found in creams, lotions, or gels. These acids exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, preventing pore blockage and maintaining clear pores. Look for products with 8% glycolic acid for optimal results.

Quick Fixes: Ice Compress and Aspirin

When a pimple emerges, using an ice compress can provide immediate relief. Wrap an ice cube in plastic wrap and apply it to the affected area at least twice a day, or ideally every hour (for up to five minutes each time). The cold temperature reduces redness and inflammation.

Another quick remedy involves taking aspirin. By consuming one or two 325-milligram tablets up to four times a day, you can help calm an acne outbreak by reducing inflammation. However, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before using aspirin regularly.

Natural Alternatives: Tea Tree Oil, Chasteberry Tea, Vinegar, and Honey

Nature offers several remedies for acne treatment. Tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial properties, can be effective in fighting acne. Dabbing a drop of tea tree oil on blemishes three times a day helps discourage infection and accelerates healing. For those who experience acne flare-ups during the menstrual cycle, consuming one to two cups of chaste berry tea daily may help regulate hormones.

Vinegar and lemon juice can be dabbed on pimples to flush out pores, as their acidic properties cleanse the skin. An old folk remedy involves combining spice and honey. Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon of powdered nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of honey to the pimple, leave it on for 20 minutes, then wash it off. While there is no concrete evidence of its efficacy, honey possesses antiseptic properties.

Additional Remedies: Aloe Vera and Zinc Supplementation

Aloe vera gel has shown promising results in healing skin sores caused by acne. In a study, 90 percent of participants experienced complete healing within five days. Zinc supplementation may also be beneficial, as individuals with acne often have lower-than-normal zinc levels.

High doses of zinc, between 200 and 600 milligrams daily, have been shown to visibly improve acne in approximately one-third of people who take them. It’s essential to consult your doctor before starting zinc supplementation.

The Power of Prevention: Proper Skin Care Habits

Preventing acne requires proper skin care habits. While it’s important to keep your skin free of dirt and excess oil, overcleaning can actually lead to more oil production.