Acne is a chronic skin condition that usually affects teenagers, although it can also affect adults in some cases. Acne occurs when the hormones act on the sebaceous glands underneath the skin and is not restricted to the face alone. It can occur on the neck, arms, back and even extend to the shoulders and arms. Acne can occur due to one’s feeding habits, especially irregular meal times, overconsumption of starch, fatty, greasy food and too much sugar. Constipation can cause acne too and this is because the inability to discharge waste from the bowels poisons the blood stream with toxic matter. Dust, grime and pollution are also capable of aggravating acne as they clog the pores and can give rise to blackheads and whiteheads.
Herbal treatment for acne is preferred over medicated ointments as they are safer for the skin.
- Wash your face with warm water and while still wet, apply a mixture of plain unflavoured yoghurt and oatmeal onto the face. Wait till it dries and wash off with warm water. Pat your face dry and if you wish, you may rub an ice cube over it, to close the pores.
- Another herbal treatment for acne includes making a paste by mixing a little honey and powdered cinnamon till you have a thick even paste. Apply onto the face and leave overnight. Wash it off first thing in the morning and dab try with a soft towel. Allow a few lettuce leaves to saturate in water. Use it to rinse your face twice a day.Alternatively you may soak fenugreek leaves in water overnight and use the water to rinse your face in the morning.
- Mash a ripe tomato and apply the pulp all over your face. Wash off in fifteen minutes. Mix a teaspoon of rose water and an equal amount of lime juice. Apply this after washing your face every night. Leave it on for half an hour before using lukewarm water to wash it off. Gently pat dry afterwards.
Do not squeeze any of the pimples and drink plenty of water and fruit juices to make sure that your skin is hydrated and that toxic matter is easily flushed out of the body. Avoid greasy junk food, alcohol and smoking. Eat a healthy balanced diet consisting of fresh green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meat and fish. While preparing food, use as little oil as possible and keep away from fatty food.