Helpful ways to heal acne

What causes Acne? It is thought that the increased production of the Testosterone hormone and natural oils in the body during the teenage years is responsible for the formation of pimples. However other physical and genetic factors may also play a role. Stress, psychological disturbances, and irregular living habits can also bring on Acne.

Acne is never caused by “dirty” skin. It can however be made worse by not having proper hygiene practices. Cleansing the face with a chemical free cleanser 2 times a day is strongly recommended to remove excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. You CAN over clean the skin, which can bring on more break outs. If you feel that you need to clean more than twice a day, use a light non chemical and alcohol free toner, or clean with plain water. This way, you do not strip the moisture barrier and the body will not need to compensate by producing more oil. Over cleaning and over scrubbing, can, and will often lead to a vicious cycle of break outs.

Here are a few ways you can harness the power of nature to heal your skin…
Tea Tree Oil Tea Tree Oil is obtained from the Melaleuca alternifoliais tree from Australia. It is very effective against Acne, as it contains bacteria-fighting substances called Terpenes. Acne is often caused by bacteria and the Terpenes either outright kill them or weaken them enough to be destroyed by protective antibodies.  Tea Tree can tingle when applied topically. Use a qtip and apply only to affected areas.
Aloe Vera The watery gel from Aloe Vera plant is also a highly effective natural cure against Acne. The enzyme-rich gel has very soothing anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It can also be taken internally and helps clean up and detox the digestive tract. This in turn can help clear up the skin.
Zinc Zinc is taken in the form of capsules. It helps to strengthen the human immune system and to repair the skin.
Vitamin A Vitamin A tablets are also a natural and effective Acne cure. Vitamin A promotes healthy skin.

Vitamin E Vitamin E also helps in countering Acne. It is a natural antioxidant and beneficial for the skin. Vitamin E comes in soft gelatin capsules that contain Vitamin E, Soybean Oil, Glycerin, and Water.

And finally… REDUCE STRESS.. or atleast learn to manage it. Stress raises the levels of cortisol(stress hormones) in the body and  this can cause acne.

Meditation and taking time to care for yourself can help your skin glow better than almost anything you can do topically!