How do you treat your acne? Whether you suffer from occasional but severe flare-ups or prolonged outbreaks of pimples, you are not alone. Research shows that more than 85% of people deal with pimples at some point in their lifetime.
Acne can ruin your self-esteem, affecting your everyday life from relationships to work, and treatments can sometimes be expensive. The internet may be full of remedies, but which ones will actually work?
How to manage and cure your acne
Know the cause
Do you have a rough idea of what could be causing your pimples? There are a few things you could double check to learn the root of your skin problems:
- When are the pimples worse? Do you flare up during certain days of the month? Do you usually wake up with new pimples? Could you be having more pimples after a wild night or weekend out? Does your skin feel irritated after some time in the gym?
- In which part of your face are the pimples most severe? The Chinese face map could help you know the cause of your pimples, judging by their location. For instance, while pimples on the chin are usually hormonal related, a cheek flare-up may stem from allergic reactions.
- What other symptoms accompany your pimples? Do your pimples itch? Is there extreme redness?
- Do other members of your family suffer from acne? Sometimes, the cause of pimples is genetic.
- Are you under stress? Are you often under mental pressure?
Clear away all your face products and cleaners
The first step is to stop using all your current products and soaps — time to start anew. Throw away your make up brushes, face towels and face creams.
Go for natural remedies
Ancient Egyptians have a reputation for having the best skins ever. It’s incredible how they maintained healthy and smooth skins with purely natural solutions.
- Honey and Cinnamon mask
Both honey and cinnamon are effective antioxidants. According to legend, Cleopatra used to apply honey to her face daily, and the results were amazing.
Applying cinnamon and honey can even be more effective in reducing pimples than benzoyl peroxide and retinoid. Honey and cinnamon can also reduce inflammation and fight skin bacteria.
- Apply green tea
The tannins and flavonoids in green tea have been proven to help in reducing inflammation and fighting bacteria. Applying concentrated green tea extract will also help to reduce sebum production.
- Aloe Vera
Try natural-based products with Aloe vera gel to treat rashes and inflammation. These also contain sulfur and salicylic acid, both potent remedies for pimples.
Buy over-the-counter medicines with the following ingredients:
- Sulfur – Kills skin bacteria.
- Retin-A – Unblocks pores and regenerates cells.
- Resorcinol – Breaks down whiteheads and blackheads.
- Salicylic acid – Reduces swelling and inflammation.
- Benzoyl peroxide – Kills bacteria, speeds up healing and prevents over-production of sebum.
- Azelaic acid – Stops sebum production, kills bacteria and strengthens skin.
People with oily skin are advised to use alcohol-based products.
Oral contraceptives
Oral contraceptives can prevent acne by improving the hormonal balance in women, and thus reducing the occurrence of pimples. Contraceptives might not be fit for women with migraines and blood clotting disorders.
Zinc and Omega 3 supplements
Omega 3 will help to manage oil production, keep you hydrated, reduce inflammation and prevent pimples. Zinc boosts cell regeneration, metabolism and the immune system.
Severe remedies
- Isotretinoin – To treat severe cystic pimples.
- Corticosteroid injection – To speed breaking down of cysts while preventing scarring and inflammation.
- Laser surgery – A high-intensity light is directed onto your skin to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, speed healing and promote rejuvenation.
- Chemical surgery – To gently exfoliate and clean your face.
Lifestyle changes
- Exercise often to promote blood circulation, hormonal balance and stress relief.
- Cut back on dairy and refined sugar.
- Manage and reduce your stress levels.
- Get enough sleep (7-8 hours daily).
- Use face products for sensitive skin and remove all make-up before sleep.
- Clean and change your pillowcases and other bedding regularly.
- Clean your glasses, mobile phone and headphones.
- Wash your hands regularly, especially before applying make-up or lotion.
- Avoid sunburn by using a strong sunscreen.
- Avoid touching your face or popping pimples with your fingers.
- Style your hair away from your face.