All people are prone to acne at some point in their life. Young teenagers to working adults often face the discomfort that is acne. On one hand, it’s not a serious health concern but in the other, it triggers the emotional being of a person. In a current generation where a clear skin is another standard to beauty and hygiene, acne can cause your self-confidence to dwindle down.
Another thing about acne is If it is not dealt with properly, it will cause spots and scars that are difficult to get rid of. It is a group of chronic infections that may affect the skin and commonly appears on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulder. They can cause lasting discomfort and often reappears from time to time. It is a tiring and endless battle and could be from a harmful diet, poor hygiene, genetics or hormone.
But before trying to prevent the breakouts, it is important to know where does acne begins?
How does acne begin?
Its appearance begins with the production of sebum secretions from the sebaceous glands of the skin, which leads to the blocking of the small openings of the hair follicles that lead to the blocking of the pores.
If the openings are large, then the plugs take the form of blackheads (small, flat, black spots), but if the openings are small, they take the form of pimples (small and flesh-colored bumps.) Both types work to block the pores, and can develop into swelling, infections, or nodules, and it is associated with severe cases of acne, often known as Cystic acne, which are constant swellings under the skin that become inflamed and hard and requires treatment.
Who are prone to acne?
All age groups can suffer from acne, especially women who are experiencing different stages of hormonal changes that permeate her life such as pregnancy, using and stopping the use of contraceptive pills, and menstrual cycle. Acne usually begins during puberty at ages between 10 and 13 years old, as well as people with oily skin in both sexes. It lasts for five to ten years and often goes after more than twenty years.
What are the causes of acne?
Acne appears out of nowhere. Just like all the effects, acne also has causes. And it’s not just one, not just two, but there are numerous causes as to why they appear. Listed below are the common causes of acne. Find out which could possibly be the reason for yours.
- Hormonal disorders and imbalances in the body which often occurs in adolescents to their transition to adulthood
- Increased androgen levels in the sebaceous glands while taking some medications that contain a large proportion of them
- Beauty products which contain a very high percentage of oils and unclean make-up materials
- Attempting to remove the acne by digging and scratching the skin
- Fatty food and artificial sugar
- Too much sunlight exposure
- Genetic
Home Remedies to remove acne
There are both medical and over the counter prescriptions for acne treatment but in the long run, they may prove to be expensive and time-consuming. For others that might prefer the natural way to remove them, here is a list of acne reducing ingredients just for you. They are cheap, can be done in less than 15 minutes, and are common home ingredients.
Lemon
Lemon has astringent properties that dry out the pimples. It also contains vitamin C that cleans the skin from impurities.
The face should be washed and cleaned well with the appropriate cleanser. Apply lemon juice to the acne-affected area before bed using a clean cotton ball, and leave it until the next morning. Wash the face well with water the next morning. Repeat the process daily at night until the desired result is obtained.
Honey
Honey contains antibacterial properties, as well as antioxidants, which speeds up the healing process from acne, and prevents infection.
Use a piece of cotton dipped in honey and apply on the affected area. Leave the honey for half an hour, and then rinse with water. Repeat the mask twice a week to get the desired result.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and if mixed with milk can help reduce the appearance of acne. Cinnamon can be used with two products: lemon juice and milk.
- Mix equal amounts of cinnamon and lemon juice and apply the mixture to the acne-affected areas. Rinse the face after one minute.
- Mix cinnamon with milk and massage the mixture to the areas that contains acne. Leave the mixture for a period of 5-10 minutes and rinse the face with cold water.
Tea tree oil
Tree tea oil can be used to treat and speed up and the healing process caused by acne because it contains properties that fights bacteria. Tea tree oil can be used after you use your skin lotion and can be applied using a clean cotton ball. Let the oil absorb into the skin.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste mostly contains baking soda, which is considered one of the most important substance that treat acne and dry the pimples. Simply dab toothpaste into the acne-affected area and rinse the product after 20 minutes with warm water.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, like any other types of vinegar, fights different types of bacteria and viruses. It works to dry out the excess oils that cause acne, as it contains acids that eliminate acne. The most important of these acids is Succinic acid which eliminates inflammation caused by acne and prevents scarring.
To use. mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with three tablespoons of water, and in case the skin is sensitive, use more water. Wash and clean the face well then use a clean cotton ball to distribute the mixture to the affected areas. Leave the mixture on the face for not more than 20 seconds then rinse with water. Repeat the method as needed. However, immediately stop using this mixture if you feel any burning sensation and skin irritation.
Tips to avoid acne
- Use a mildly suitable cleanser and avoid using strong and harsh soaps and cleanser
- Avoid stress
- Live healthily by exercising and eating food rich in vitamins and minerals, especially iron and zinc. Avoid food that contains starches and fat
- If you’re starting to notice reddened areas on the skin, put an ice pack to reduce inflammation
- Consult a dermatologist
- Frequently wash your pillow, bed sheets and hair