Acne is so common among teenagers — about 80 percent of young men and women develop pimples, half of them severe enough to require physician treatment — it is considered a natural rite of passage. Adolescents get acne because hormones called androgens, which increase the amount of oil the skin produces, circulate at higher levels in their blood.

Contrary to popular misconceptions, chocolate and dirty hair or skin does not cause acne outbreaks, usually, it’s hereditary.

What Causes Acne

Acne is usually caused by some form of kidney, liver, or bowel congestion, heredity, and digestive problems. Hormone imbalances can also be a factor in acne. During puberty Hormones in both boys and girls become unstable causing an increase in secretions by the sebaceous glands of the face resulting in acne. Herbs that aid in general elimination and detoxification through the liver and intestines and increase perspiration through the skin are very useful in the treatment of acne.

home remedies to cure acne

- Use a non-oil based makeup if you are prone to acne.

- Avoid cosmetic products that contain lanolins, isopropyl myristate, sodium lauryl sulfate, laureth-4, and D & Cred dyes. Like oil, these ingredients are too rich for the skin.

- Wash your makeup off every night.

- The less makeup you use the better.

- Do not squeeze pimples or whiteheads. A pimple is an inflammation, and you could add to the inflammation by squeezing it.

- Oregon Graperoot and Golden seal – There are two ways in which these herbs can help treat acne. Number one, they promote good digestion and liver function, which helps the body to get rid of toxins. Number two, both of these herbs contain a substance called berberine, which is a virulent antibacterial.

- Chamomile – This herb contains an anti-inflammatory essential oil called azulene.

- Rose – This flower as we all know is heavenly smelling, but it also has a soothing and antiseptic action. Roses are great for natural skin care. Put rosewater made with real rose essential oil into a spray bottle and spritz your face as often as you like.

- Grapefruit Seed Extract – When it comes to fighting bacteria, there is none better than this potent antimicrobial agent is. Any condition that involves fighting bacteria, reach for grapefruit seed extract.

Anti Bacterial Wash or Paste

These two recipes are good for Acne.

Wash:

2 table spoons chopped dried Oregon graperoot or goldenseal root

2 cups water

Simmer all ingredients for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and cool; use to wash face or soak a clean cloth and use as a compress.

Paste:

1 teaspoon powdered Oregon graperoot or goldenseal root

A few drops of water

5 drops lavender oil

Mix all ingredients. Apply to pimples; let dry. Rinse or gently wash off.

When you should call a doctor for acne

There are four grades of acne, the first is a mild occurence, with a few whiteheads and blackheads. The last and more severe form also known as grade four is in a class all to itself. These cases are always followed by severe inflammation that becomes red or purple. When this happens consider running to your nearest dermatologist.

Severe acne can sometimes result in permanent scarring if it isn’t treated properly according to experts. A dermatologist can prescribe you medications that will take care of the severe acne, including topical creams and lotions that open up the pores and kill bacteria.

If you are experiencing grade four acne — seeing a dermatologist could help save your skin from un-sightly scarring.

Herbal remedies for acne

Tea tree – This Australian tree has a pungent oil that destroys acne-causing bacteria. In treating acne, tea tree oil worked just as well as 5 percent benzoyl peroxide with fewer side effects.

Lavender – Lavender is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and somewhat astringent; it is good to have around because it is good for minor skin irritations and minor burns.

Burdock – This root promotes sweating and urination when taken internally. This helps to cleanse the body, which decreases your chances of getting acne.

Home Remedies To Cure Acne

Dandelion – Dandelion is similar to burdock, it helps the body to get rid of unwanted waste and bacteria. The liver and digestion is also affected by dandelion. It helps stimulate digestion while supporting the liver in expelling toxins.

Calendula – This traditional remedy is used in the treatment of many skin problems. The petals of the calendula herb are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, which can help relieve acne symptoms.

Aloe – Aloe Vera is soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial, which helps to heal wounds of all kinds.