Acne Control The Natural Way: 8 Ways To Say Goodbye To Acne

People who want to prevent acne often spend large sums trying to do so. But, they don't have
to! There are several natural and inexpensive methods for getting rid of those embarrassing
acne breakouts. In addition, these methods can help prevent sudden outbreaks of acne from
occurring. Here's some help for those suffering from acne.

Defining Acne

In most cases, genetic predisposition determines the type and severity of acne breakouts. Acne
is caused by a combination of hormone activity and natural sebaceous activity under the surface
of the skin. Sebaceous, or oil, glands secrete sebum whose purpose is to keep the skin soft and
flexible and it is vitally important to healthy maintenance of the skin. A lack of sebum causes
dryness, rough skin and even cracks and splits. However, hormone activity combined with diet
and other factors, can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more natural oils than is
needed. This excess can block the pores of the skin, leading to blackheads and a localized
infection that we commonly call pimples. Acne breakouts normally occur on the face, neck,
back, chest and shoulders which are the most visible areas of the body and is where the sebum
glands are most densely saturated.

While individual genetics have been shown to play a significant role in the development of acne,
social factors such as daily routines and diet are also major players in causing outbreaks.
Genetics may not be subject to change but an individual suffering from acne need not feel
powerless or hopeless when it comes to treating their acne. Some simple changes in diet and
routine has an enormous impact on controlling and eliminating acne.

Simple Natural Changes to Eliminate Acne

The following is a list of several suggestions for dealing with and eliminating acne:

1. The most important thing to do is probably the easiest, drink LOTS of water. Water flushes
toxins from the body and also aids in the creation of natural skin oils and moisture. The better hydrated a person is the less need for the creation of additional skin oils by the sebaceous
glands.

2. Consume at least four to five servings of fresh fruit and vegetables every day. Nutrition
science has shown that the natural amino acids in fruits and vegetables are important in the
formation and regulation of sebum. Poor nutrition, or a diet heavy in oils, dairy products and
fats, leads to more severe acne outbreaks.

3. Try rose water for facial cleansing. Using a clean cotton ball dipped in rose water, moisturize
and clean the face and other areas prone to breakouts two to three times daily. Rose water is a
natural antiseptic that doesn't strip the skin of natural oils.

4. Avoid using soaps and alcohol-containing products for cleansing. These strip the skin of its
natural oils. Harsh cleansers stimulate the skin to produce more sebum to keep the skin
moisturized, opening the door to more acne outbreaks.

5. Make-up may also cause acne outbreaks because it blocks the surface pores of the skin. In
addition, some types of make-up cause drying of the skin. This stimulates the glands to secrete
more sebum to compensate for the drying of surface oils. Choose cosmetics that are natural
and do not contain alcohol or petroleum based products. Also, use a natural moisturizer to keep
skin soft and pliable without encouraging sebum production. Contrary to popular belief, good
quality moisturizers do NOT cause acne and may actually help to lessen outbreaks.

6. At the first sign of an outbreak, apply ice to the area to lessen the appearance of redness
and irritation. Use a little rose water to cleanse the area, and pat a little cornstarch or baking
soda mixed with water over the area. This will soothe, draw out the infection and ease the
discomfort of the outbreak.

7. Cucumber is an inexpensive and effective acne control treatment when used as a mask.
Blend it with a little water in a blender until a smooth paste is formed, and pat over the face and
other affected areas. Leave it on for approximately 30 minutes and then rinse of with warm
water. Cucumber has been shown to be a good acne treatment that refreshes the skin without
damaging it.

8. Find out if you have any food allergies. Acne is sometimes the body's way of letting you
know that you are allergic to something you are eating. Mild to moderate allergies to cow's milk
and milk products, grains, gluten, chocolate and other foods considered to be a normal part of
diet can lead to acne outbreaks. A simple way to test for a food allergy is: if you suspect you
may be allergic to something, eliminate it from your diet for a few days. If your acne and your
general health begins to improve it would be a good idea to discuss the matter with your doctor.
A simple allergy test will let you know if you are sensitive to a certain food or food group.

Natural Advantages of Natural Acne treatments

The quest to cure acne has spawned a huge treatment industry. Consumer markets are flooded
with products all claiming to eliminate acne, and its often an expensive proposition when trying
to choose the best out of this sea of curatives. Unfortunately, many of the products sold to
prevent acne often make it worse instead of better. For the wise shopper, natural methods
should be the first choice but whether you have tried all the other methods or none of them, its
never too late to try the simple, natural methods mentioned in the list above. They are both time
and money saving. They will improve your overall health and vitality, and they aren't going to
cause the situation to get worse instead of better. So what are you waiting for? A natural cure
for your acne is as near as your cupboard or local grocery store!