HOME REMEDIES FOR TREATMENT OF ACNE VULGARIS

By Emmanuel Chukwu

First of all I would start by explaining briefly the meaning of acne vulgaris.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition. It occurs on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. It involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles and commonly occurs during puberty when the sebaceous glands come to life. These glands are stimulated by hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and female. Acne is found too affect mostly teenagers and youths than the elderly and aged. This is because youths produce more hormones than the elderly.

The skin as we all know has lots of tiny holes called pores through which a small hair called follicle grows. The function of these tiny holes (pores) is to excrete dead skin cells from the body.

Therefore when these dead skin cells are being prevented from leaving the body as a result of blocked pores, the dirt accumulates in the pores which lead to an inflammation called ACNE.

Acne also known or referred to as pimple is not as dangerous as people term to regard it; although it can leave ugly scars if not treated properly.

CAUSES OF ACNE

·        STRESS

Stress has always been a part of us, though we try hard not to let it get in our way and instead dwell on happy thoughts everyday. Studies have shown that when one feels anxious and tense, the body releases hormones particularly cotisol which in turn increases the production of skin oil, which also increases the chances of acne.

·        FOOD/DIET

Studies have shown that sugar and foods that have high glycemic index do cause acne. This is because too much sugar can boost one’s insulin level, increasing sebum production and thus clogging the pores.

HOME REMEDIES FOR TREATMENT OF ACNE

·        Applying sugar scrub

Applying sugar scrub can also help you control acne. The sugar granules work to exfoliate the skin. The grains work to dislodge any dead skin and also to clean out the pores. It is always a good idea to rinse with cool water, because it helps the pores to close back up.

·        Applying grated potato

Another method of acne treatment is the use of grated potato. Potato has been used for years to draw out infections and it works great to absorb all the dirt and oils that are on your skin. Grated potato also helps remove dark circles around the eyes, puffiness and it even helps diminish wrinkles and blemishes.

·        Applying Cinnamon mixed with Honey

The use of cinnamon and honey is another effective way of treating acne. Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties and honey adds beautiful glow to the skin.

In this case it has to be proportioned for effective result. The proportions to apply are 1 cinnamon part to 3 parts of honey (ratio 1:3). The treatment should be left on the skin overnight and then rinsed off with warm water in the morning.

·        Applying orange peels

This method is much simpler as well as effective and suitable for persons who don’t want to go through a lot of prep work. All you have to do is grind the orange peels (sun dried peels) and mix with some water to form a paste and apply it on the affected area. Allow it to sit for 25 to 30mins and then rinse it off.

The vitamin C and citric acid contained in the orange are great for acne and they also will leave your face refreshed.

·        Wash your face regularly

Washing your face regularly helps clear up your skin pores, and this really helps in preventing and removing acne. You can also use a regular face wash with scrubbers to dislodge dirt from your skin pores.

·        Watch your diet

Your diet plays a huge role in your health, and a good diet helps prevent all sorts of complications and illnesses. As pimples can often be caused by vitamins deficiencies, remember to take foods rich in vitamins. Such foods include carrots, oranges, lemons, spinach, liver, eggs and marine fish.

·        Drink water regularly

This is also known as water therapy. Drinking up to three (3) litres of water a day is an absolute must for anyone looking to be healthy and free from health complications. Sometimes acne can be a symptom of chronic dehydration.

Drinking lots of water helps your body get rid of toxins which has a direct impact on your pimples.

·        Another home made solution is the application of Aloe-Vera mixed with glycerin on the affected spot. This can be used as treatment for acne as it reduces its size.

·        Finally the application of lemon juice mixed with rose water on the affected area is also a home remedy for acne.

In conclusion I’ll advice you try as much as possible to avoid rubbing your face with dirty hands as you will transfer dirt and bacteria to your face which will end up blocking the pores and causing acne.