If acne is damping your plans, there are a few ways you can resolve those blemishes. First, we need to understand that acne occurs because your skin is producing too much sebum. According to Reader's Digest's 1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems, sebum is "the thick oily substance that acts as a natural lubricant." So check out these tips that will help combat excess sebum and kick acne to the curb.
Read the Labels
According to Viva Magazine, a natural health resource for women, chemicals in skin care products - such as parabens - can cause major irritations. Before you pay for your acne treatment, read the labels and look for natural ingredients such as tea tree oil or aloe vera.
- Tea Tree Oil: According to Aubrey Hampton, author of the Natural Ingredients Dictionary, tea tree oil is an essential oil that has "powerful antiseptic and germicidal properties." Tea tree oil, says Reader's Digest, is actually just as effective as benzoyl peroxide.
- Aloe Vera: Hampton also reports that aloe vera is an effective remedy for sunburns and skin irritations. Reader's Digest explains that "one study found that 90 percent of skin sores were completely healed with aloe vera within five days."
Also try this simple remedy at home: dab vinegar and lemon juice on your zits. Vinegar and lemon juice both contain acids that can help remove build-up dirt sitting in your pores.
Cleansing Routine
Get into the habit of washing your face with a mild cleanser twice a day, advises Viva Magazine. Exfoliation helps slough away dead skin cells, but don't rub your face with a washcloth. A washcloth is too rough and it can actually build up more bacteria if you keep reusing it!
If you have lots of blackheads, use this at-home recipe about a month before prom begins:
- Add 1 tsp of Epsom salt and 3 drops of iodine to a half-cup of water. Bring solution to a boil.
- Let the solution cool. Take a cotton cleaning pad and dip it into the solution.
- Now wipe all over your face to clean the pores.
Wrap Up
Do remember that you can speak to your doctor or dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin. In fact, before you try any new remedy, it is wise to get professional advice - your doctor could help you according to your health history and may even offer prescriptions if necessary. Also, visit the cosmetics counter at your local pharmacy or department store for make-up tips to cover up remaining blemishes.
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