Managing Acne in a Natural Way

At one time or another, almost everyone has suffered from acne. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous gland (glands in the skin that secrete an oily substance) of the face, the neck and back. When the sebaceous glands become clogged up with the oily matter they produce, the accumulation results in pimples. The most common form of acne is found mainly in adolescents, and is called acne vulgaris.

The exact cause of acne is not known, but factors that contribute to this condition include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional factors include allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants, cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle.

The skin functions to eliminate a portion of the body’s toxic waste by sweating. The skin takes over if the body has more toxins than the kidneys or liver can successfully release. Some doctors call the skin the 3rd kidney. As toxins escape through the skin, they can disrupt the health and integrity of the skin, creating issues.

Recommendations for Wellness

Note: Some of these recommendations may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements are experienced.

Apply distilled white vinegar (can be diluted if too strong) to the face and affected areas. Let this sit on your face for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.

A great natural exfoliate, that removes dead skin cells that may clog the pores, is either lemon or any citric fruit. Apply the juice of a lemon (or desired citric juice) to the face, as you would with the white vinegar. Let it dry for about 10 minutes, and then wash off with cold water. When applied the lemon juice can cause you to feel a mild stinging or burn. If so, diluting the juice is suitable.

You should increase water consumption. Water helps transport nutrients in the body and helps flush out toxins.

Eat a properly balanced diet to ensure proper nutrition. To make up for nutrients missing in today’s foods take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement.

To help boost the immune system and fight against acne-causing bacteria use echinacea or Oregon grape.

Dandelion, Burdock or red clover can help to keep the liver clear of toxic overload.

Another way to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce acne is by herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshine’s Ayurvedic Skin Detox, and BP-X.

Large amounts of vitamin A have been effectively used to treat severe acne. Large quantities, however, can be hazardous and should only be used when working with your health care giver.

You should consider adding additional zinc to your diet. Zinc aids in the healing of tissues and assists in preventing scarring. It is also important for the body in resisting infection and inflammation.

To help heal and clear your skin, try a homeopathic acne remedy. It can help to dry up pimples & prevent future outbreaks.