The skin plays an important role in the body. Apart from its sensory function, it protects us against harmful bacteria and chemicals, acts as a waterproofing agent and regulates our body temperature. But without proper care, skin can develop various problems. Like acne, which is the most common of them all.
Acne, also referred to as pimples,is a common skin disease caused by inflammation of the glands and hair follicles of the skin. It usually occurs when the hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.Various factors like stress, puberty, poor hygiene and chemicals can cause acne and its resulting scars. To remain acne-free, it’s important you protect your skin.
Natural remedies to fight acne
Natural remedies are a great way to fight acne as they are both time-tested, and unlike chemicals, have no unwanted side-effects.
There are innumerable home remedies for acne. Here’s a look at how effective they are:
Sandalwood oil/ paste: Sandalwood is a great disinfectant; its benefits for the skin have been known since time immemorial. It is one of the best natural remedies for acne scars as well as other skin-related problems.To treat acne, or acne scars, combine sandalwood with honey, turmeric or rose water. Cover the affected area with the paste and leave it overnight for best results. Milk and sandalwood are also an effective combination for treating acne scars.
Also Read: How to get rid of acne and restore your natural beauty
Onion and honey paste: Onion is a great antibacterial agent, while honey is rich in natural antioxidants that have anti-microbial properties. To make the paste, boil one chopped onion and 1 cup in a saucepan until the onion is clear and soft. Then mash it with a fork till it forms a fine paste. Apply the paste to the acne-ridden area for a few days at a stretch; it will help make your complexion clear and sparkling.
Baking soda: This is another kitchen cure known for its anti-bacterial properties. A paste of baking soda and water doesn’t just cure acne and acne scars, but it also acts as a good cleanser.
Also Read: Dealing With Teen Acne Is Now Easy
Ice or ice packs: Both cheap and easily available, ice has a soothing effect on the skin. Rubbed into the skin once or twice, it can ease the irritation and redness caused by acne.
Vinegar: It contains alpha hydroxy acid which is very helpful in oil removal. Apply mild cider vinegar on the affected areas using a cotton swab and let it remain for a couple of minutes before washing it off with a mild soap. Following this regimen for a few days will surely show some positive results.
Tomatoes: It contains a high amount of antioxidants that are good for the skin as well as the whole body. Antioxidants are very effective in lowering the levels of sebum, an oily waxy substance secreted by the glands that can cause bacterial growth.
Also Read: Healthy foods for perfect skin
Tomato pulp can be applied directly on acne-prone skin. It should be left on the skin for about 10-20 minutes before it is washed off, leaving your skin smooth and nourished. You can also combine tomato extract with other ingredients like cucumber or aloe vera pulp to make a paste and use it as a home remedy for acne-scar removal.
Aloe vera: It is one of the oldest natural remedies for acne. Aloe has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and pain inhibiting properties that are very effective for treating acne.The gel or pulp extract from the aloe plant has to be applied to affected areas; it can also be mixed with honey or turmeric to make a paste. After leaving it on for some time, it can be washed off with water. Using this regimen daily will help you get rid of acne quickly.
Conclusion
There are several natural remedies to combat acne. But whatever treatment you choose, give it some time to show results –it can even take3-4 weeks to make a difference. So it’s important to be patient. Most importantly, as all these ingredients can be found in your kitchen, you need not fear any negative side-effects from their use.
