Skin Care

Dealing with acne is a common skin concern, affecting about 85 percent of young adults worldwide. While conventional treatments like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and benzoyl peroxide are effective, they often come with side effects such as dryness and irritation, leading many to seek natural alternatives. 

According to a 2017 study, 77 percent of acne patients have tried home remedies. Although some lack scientific evidence, there are several natural options worth exploring. This article consists of 5 popular home remedies for acne, offering an understanding of their potential effectiveness.

What is Acne?

Before discussing the natural home remedies to cure acne, first, we need to understand what is acne. Acne arises when skin follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, presenting a common challenge for many. While often associated with teenage years due to increased oil production, acne knows no age limits, with adults in their 40s and 50s also experiencing its effects.

Causes of Acne

Acne originates from the blockage of skin pores by a combination of oil and dead skin cells. Each pore is linked to a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum, an oily substance. Excess sebum can clog pores, promoting the growth of bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, also known as P. acnes. When these bacteria are attacked by white blood cells, it triggers skin inflammation and acne. While the severity of acne varies, common symptoms include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.

Various factors can play a role in the onset of acne, such as genetics, diet, stress, hormonal fluctuations, and infections. While conventional clinical treatments remain the most reliable for acne reduction, home remedies can also be attempted, although their efficacy requires further research. Below, we present 5 natural home remedies for managing acne.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Treatment

Apple cider vinegar is crafted through the fermentation of apple cider, which is the unfiltered juice extracted from pressed apples. Its antimicrobial properties have been recognized in research for combating various types of bacteria and fungi. Notably, apple cider vinegar contains citric acid, which, in conjunction with zinc oxide, has been observed to eliminate P. acnes, a bacteria associated with acne. 

Additionally, studies from 2017 suggest that the lactic acid present in apple cider vinegar may aid in diminishing the appearance of acne scars. Despite these potential benefits, there is currently insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar in treating acne. Moreover, some dermatologists caution against its use due to the potential for skin irritation.

Benefits:

Cost-effective, readily available, enhances the look of acne scars. 

Drawback:

May cause skin irritation.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Acne?

• Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water (recommended for sensitive skin).
• After washing your face, carefully apply the mixture to your skin using a cotton ball.
• Leave it on for 5 to 20 seconds, then rinse with water and pat dry.
• Repeat this procedure at least 1 to 2 times daily, as necessary.

Keep in mind that applying apple cider vinegar directly to your skin can cause burns and irritation, so it’s important to use caution. Most dermatologists do not recommend this method. If you decide to try it, start with small amounts and dilute it with water.

Honey and Cinnamon Mask

In 2017, a study revealed that combining honey and cinnamon bark extract demonstrated antibacterial effects against P. acnes.

Recent research from 2020 suggested that honey alone can inhibit the growth of P. acnes or even eliminate it. However, this doesn’t guarantee that honey effectively treats acne. A study conducted in 2016 involving 136 individuals with acne found that applying honey to the skin after using antibacterial soap didn’t show significant superiority in treating acne compared to using only soap.

Although honey and cinnamon possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help alleviate acne, further research is necessary to establish their efficacy conclusively.

Benefits:

Antibacterial properties, sample preparation

Drawback:

Lack of extensive research to support claims

How to Apply Honey and Cinnamon Mask for Acne Treatment:

• Combine 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to create a paste.
• Apply the mask evenly and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes once you clean your face.
• Remove the mask thoroughly and gently pat your face with a towel.

Tea Tree Oil for Acne Treatment

Tea tree oil, derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree in Australia, has garnered attention for its potential acne-fighting properties.

Recent research from 2018 suggests that applying tea tree oil topically may help reduce acne. A small-scale study conducted in 2019 compared the effects of tea tree oil ointment with benzoyl peroxide, a common acne treatment. Participants using the tea tree oil reported less dryness and irritation, along with greater satisfaction with the treatment.

Additionally, a study from 2017 suggests that tea tree oil could serve as an alternative to topical and oral antibiotics, which may lead to bacterial resistance with prolonged use. Given its potency, it’s essential to dilute tea tree oil before applying it to the skin.

Benefits:

Economical usage, suitable for overnight application, natural

Drawback:

May cause dryness, Essential oils lack FDA approval

How to Apply Tea Tree Oil for Acne Treatment:

• Dilute 1 part tea tree oil with 9 parts water.
• Apply the mixture to the affected areas.
• Optionally, follow up with moisturizer.
• Repeat this process 1 to 2 times per day, as required.

Remember, tea tree oil is highly potent, so always dilute it before applying it to the skin.

Aloe Vera for Acne Treatment

Aloe vera, a tropical plant renowned for its clear gel extracted from its leaves, is widely incorporated into various skincare products like lotions, creams, and soaps. This natural remedy has been traditionally utilized for treating a range of skin conditions such as abrasions, rashes, burns, wounds, and skin inflammation.

Moreover, aloe vera contains salicylic acid and sulfur, both recognized for their acne-fighting properties. A study from 2017 demonstrated the efficacy of salicylic acid in reducing acne.

Furthermore, another study from 2018 suggested that combining aloe vera gel with other acne-fighting substances like tretinoin cream or tea tree oil may enhance its effectiveness in treating acne.

Despite requiring more research to definitively establish, the direct anti-acne benefits of aloe vera show promise.

Benefits:

Aloe Vera is natural and versatile, commonly available, and can be combined with other remedies

Drawback:

Limited scientific evidence, potential additives in store-bought products

How to Use Aloe Vera for Acne Treatment:

• Extract the gel from the aloe plant using a spoon.
• Apply the gel directly onto clean skin as a moisturizer.
• Repeat this process 1 to 2 times daily, or as needed.

Alternatively, you can purchase pure aloe vera gel from stores, ensuring it contains no additional ingredients.

Low Glycemic Diet for Acne Treatment

The glycemic index (GI) of a food indicates how fast it can raise your blood sugar levels.

Consuming foods with a high GI can lead to a rapid increase in insulin, potentially triggering higher sebum production. Consequently, these high GI foods may directly impact the occurrence and severity of acne. In a recent study from 2018, 66 participants followed either a regular or low glycemic diet. After just 2 weeks, those on the low glycemic diet showed reduced levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone associated with acne development.

In a study from 2017 involving 64 participants, it was observed that individuals with moderate to severe acne tended to consume diets with higher carbohydrate content and a greater glycemic load compared to those without acne.

These preliminary findings suggest that adopting a low glycemic diet could potentially benefit individuals with acne-prone skin. However, further extensive and prolonged studies are necessary to validate these findings.

Processed foods like white bread, sugary drinks, cakes, doughnuts, pastries, candies, and sugary cereals can worsen acne due to their high glycemic index. On the other hand, acne-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains have a lower glycemic index.

Benefits:

Lowers insulin, beneficial for health 

Drawback:

Difficult to monitor, limited scientific evidence

At some point, we all engage in habits that can harm our skin. 

While the repercussions of a late-night outing may show up on your face by morning, prolonged stress tends to have subtler effects. 

It gradually disrupts your skin barrier, leading to irritation and manifesting in one of these four issues:

Breakouts

It’s not just about the comfort foods like pasta, wine, and baked goods during emotional moments (though they can contribute to pore-clogging inflammation). 

There’s also a physiological aspect at play: “When your emotions are high, your cortisol levels spike and trigger your oil glands to produce more oil.” 

That oil can then feed acne-causing bacteria in your skin, leading to, yes, acne.

While you can’t magically alter your body’s response, you can help reduce cortisol levels through a quick meditation or workout session. 

If you anticipate a period of stress, consider fortifying your skincare routine with gentle measures, like using a sulfur-based face mask or a cleanser with salicylic acid. 

These steps can help keep your pores clear even when cortisol levels are on the rise.

Face Picking

Ever find yourself picking at your face, especially after a bout of stress or tears? There’s a notable connection between your emotions and this behavior. 

Picking can be a way for your brain to assert control during moments of anxiety. It may offer a fleeting sense of command over stressors, but in reality, it stems from anxiety. 

Chronic stress can also heighten nerve signaling that triggers itching, making you more susceptible to scrutinizing and picking at your face.

To resist the urge, consider using pimple patches like the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch. 

These patches not only maintain cleanliness but also act as a protective barrier, preventing further harm caused by your fingers. 

If necessary, apply multiple patches to safeguard your skin. And, perhaps, temporarily set aside those magnifying mirrors until the stress subsides.

Dryness

In moments of stress, your body’s natural response kicks in, reminiscent of caveman instincts. When facing a threat, adrenaline surges, and cortisol levels rise to redirect blood flow to vital organs for survival. 

However, this ancient survival mechanism can adversely affect your skin. During stress, your skin, not deemed a vital organ in fight-or-flight situations, may experience dehydration and a compromised barrier.

While you can’t instantly control your emotions, you can provide extra care to your skin by increasing moisturization. Consider using a hydrating serum like Neocutis Hyalis+ Intensive Hydrating Serum both morning and night during stressful periods.

We’ve all experienced it: The morning of a significant date or a crucial meeting, you glance in the mirror, and what greets you? A breakout.

Whether it’s a single pimple or a collection of blemishes, acne is a prevalent issue affecting individuals of all ages—causes of acne in women, men, boys, and girls may vary.

Acne, scientifically known as acne vulgaris, emerges when the skin’s glands produce an excess amount of the natural oil, sebum.

The combination of sebum and dead skin cells can obstruct pores, leading to the development of acne. 

Additionally, the intrusion of bacteria, specifically Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), into these pores can further contribute to inflamed acne.

Signs and Symptoms of Acne

Acne, a prevalent skin condition in the United States, affects around 50 million Americans, primarily in their teenage and young adult years. 

Roughly 85 percent of teenagers will experience acne at some point. This encompassing term refers to diverse breakouts, each exhibiting specific symptoms. 

• Whiteheads: Formed when a closed pore traps oil and dead skin cells, resulting in a white bump on the skin’s surface.
• Blackheads: Occur when a pore is partially clogged and remains open, turning black as oil and dead skin cells react to oxygen.
• Papules: Tiny, red, and hard pimples formed when bacteria are trapped in a pore.
• Pustules: Similar to papules but containing pus made of dead white cells.
• Nodules: Large, inflamed lesions formed when a pimple extends into the deeper layers of the skin.
• Cystic Acne: A severe type akin to nodules, where the deeper skin layer becomes inflamed, and cysts containing pus develop. These soft, painful red lumps often require dermatological intervention due to their challenging treatment. The severity of acne varies based on its type.

Causes and Risk Factors of Acne

Understanding the mechanics of acne (oil + dead skin cells = clogged pores) might leave you wondering why some individuals consistently maintain clear skin while others experience breakouts. 

Various factors can contribute to the worsening of acne or increase the risk of its occurrence including some acne treatment products.

• Changes in Hormone Levels: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those during puberty or menstruation, can prompt sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum.
• Cosmetics or Hair-Care Products: The use of oily cosmetics may lead to pore blockages, making the skin more susceptible to breakouts.
• Family History: There seems to be a genetic connection between acne and family history. If your parents struggled with acne, there’s an increased likelihood that you may, too.
• Some Medications: Acne may be a side effect of certain medications, such as corticosteroids or lithium (Lithobid).

The Significance of Consistency in Acne Treatment

Effectively managing acne requires a sustained commitment, extending beyond the duration of a breakout. 

It’s crucial not to discontinue acne treatment without your doctor’s approval, as ceasing prematurely may lead to another breakout just as your skin begins to show improvement.Neglecting treatment may result in enduring breakouts and the potential for scarring. Furthermore, a 2018 review highlights the correlation between persistent acne and heightened levels of anxiety and reduced self-esteem. Consistent and comprehensive acne care is essential for promoting lasting skin health and well-being.

As the world around us undergoes its annual transformation, our skin, too, experiences the effects of changing seasons. The delicate balance of temperature, humidity, and sunlight plays a pivotal role in determining the health and appearance of our skin. In this blog, we delve into the significance of seasonal skincare and the art of tailoring your routine to harmonize with the ever-shifting weather patterns.

As we explore the diverse challenges each season poses to our skin, we’ll uncover the key ingredients and strategies to keep your skin resilient and radiant throughout the year

Understanding Seasonal Impact on Skin:

Our skin, the body’s largest organ, is a dynamic entity constantly adapting to its surroundings. Whether it’s the biting chill of winter winds, the bloom of rejuvenating spring blossoms, the scorching rays of summer, or the crisp embrace of autumn, each season brings unique challenges that leave an imprint on our skin. Navigating these changes necessitates a thoughtful skincare approach, acknowledging the evolving needs of our skin as the climate shifts.

Winter: Hydration is Key

The winter season often arrives with a sharp drop in temperature and plummeting humidity levels, resulting in the skin losing its natural moisture. Dryness, flakiness, and discomfort can become prevalent issues. Combatting these challenges requires a focus on hydrating products enriched with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Employing a thicker moisturizer and integrating a gentle exfoliator can assist in shedding dead skin cells and fostering a smoother, more supple complexion.

Spring: Renew and Refresh

Spring heralds a period of renewal, mirroring the blossoming of nature. Your skincare routine should echo this sentiment, emphasizing products with antioxidants to counteract any oxidative stress accrued during the winter months. Transition to lighter moisturizers and incorporate gentle exfoliants to invigorate the skin, unveiling a refreshed complexion as you embrace the warmer days.

Summer: Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

With the sun reigning supreme, safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays becomes non-negotiable. A daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is imperative. Lightweight, water-based moisturizers can prevent clogged pores, and a gentle cleanser will effectively remove sweat and excess oil without compromising your skin’s natural balance.

Fall: Repair and Prep for Winter

As temperatures begin to descend, it’s time to repair any sun damage incurred during the summer and fortify your skin for the impending winter. Products featuring ingredients like vitamin C can illuminate your complexion and address sun-related damage. Introducing a richer moisturizer helps hydrate the skin and establishes a protective barrier against the encroaching colder weather.

Adapting Your Skincare Routine

Monitor Your Skin’s Response:

Remain vigilant to your skin’s reactions as the weather changes, adjusting your routine based on its evolving needs. Dryness, redness, or other concerns may signal that your current products require modification.

Invest in Multi-Seasonal Products:

Seek out skincare products with versatile formulations capable of addressing a spectrum of seasonal needs. Products featuring adaptive ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera can deliver continuous hydration, adapting seamlessly to the evolving weather.

Consult with Skincare Professionals:

If uncertainty surrounds the selection of products or adjusting your routine, seek guidance from dermatologists or skincare professionals. Their personalized advice, tailored to your skin type and the climate of your region, can prove invaluable.

Wrap Up:

In navigating the intricate dance between our skin and the changing seasons, we unlock the secrets to sustaining vibrant and resilient skin throughout the year. By tailoring our skincare routines to accommodate the unique challenges presented by each season, we stand better equipped to nurture the health and radiance of our skin. As you embark on this journey of seasonal skincare, it’s worth noting that the evolving Fits alert is not only your companion in offering valuable insights into adapting your routine but also your guide to the latest trends, tips, and inspirations in the world of beauty.

Stay connected for a continuous stream of informative blogs that will empower you to make informed choices, ensuring your skin not only survives but thrives in every season. Your beauty is our priority, and Fits alert is here to accompany you on your path to skincare excellence.