Acne is one of the skin problems most teenagers face today. It can be caused by various risk factors and reasons including stress, puberty, and hygiene. It can be difficult and expensive to treat that is why natural remedies are now becoming popular worldwide for they are equally effective and inexpensive.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne is characterized by the appearance of pimples, deeper lumps and plugged pores that can be found in the face, neck, chest and back.
It usually begins at puberty but can progress until adulthood. In fact, acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States affecting around 40 to 50 million Americans. Almost 85% of people around the world had experienced having acne one time in their lives.
There are treatments available for acne treatment but they can be very expensive. However, there is no harm in opting for natural and chemical-free treatments. Mayo Clinic shares its take on the natural ways to treat acne. First, the application of alpha hydroxyl acid is recommended for the fast suppression of acne. It is an acid that is naturally found in citrus fruits that removes dead skin and unclogs pores.
Another natural remedy is Azelaic acid which can be found in whole-grain cereals and animal products. A 20 percent azelaic acid cream can be as effective as many other conventional acne treatments when used twice a day for at least four weeks. Also, Zinc can be helpful in controlling acne breakouts.
Green Tea Extract is recommended as a potent acne buster as reported by a number of studies that can attest to its efficacy. Aloe vera and brewer's yeast are also effective.
On the other hand, WebMD presents its take on acne treatments including tea tree oil that is deemed one of the most popular alternative acne treatments today. Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of a small tree native to Australia and if used, can result to reduced pimples and breakouts. Also, they recommend using Manuka honey which contains antibacterial and wound healing properties that are best for acne lumps and pimples.
Meanwhile, Prevention Magazine promotes ways and solutions for adult acne which can be dealt with by preventing its occurrence and severity. It reports that eating fewer refined carbohydrates, taking less dairy, blue light therapy, reducing salt intake, managing stress, topical retinoids, birth control pills and salicylic acid are some of the tried and tested methods to solve acne.