How to Get Rid of Acne Naturally
Acne is a common skin issue that many of us have dealt with at some point in our lives. And while over-the-counter treatments can be helpful, they often come with unwanted side effects. Luckily, there are plenty of natural remedies you can try. But first, let’s dive into what causes acne and why it can be so stubborn.
“The environment, hormonal changes, and our diet can greatly impact our skin health, including the formation of acne,” explains Dr. Mayor Boss, Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Why Do I Get Acne?
The appearance of acne often seems like a mystery. You might be wondering why your skin gets inflamed and irritated. The main factors are excess oil production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria, and hormonal changes.
“When your body produces too much oil, it can clog your pores. This, combined with dead skin cells, forms a perfect environment for bacteria to grow, thus leading to skin conditions like acne,” notes Dr. Boss.
How to Get Rid of Acne Naturally
There are numerous natural remedies to try when combating acne. Here are some methods that can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine to get rid of acne naturally.
Healthy Diet
Consuming mostly whole, nutrient-dense foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can significantly improve your acne symptoms.
“Drinking lots of water and consuming foods with high water content can also help keep your skin hydrated, which can prevent oil overproduction,” says Dr. Boss.
Here’s a table highlighting some foods that may help get rid of acne naturally:
| Food | Reason It Helps |
|---|---|
| Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines) | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for reducing inflammation, which could help reduce the severity of acne. |
| Avocados | High in healthy fats and Vitamin E, which promotes skin health. |
| Broccoli | Contains many vitamins and minerals important for skin health, including zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C. |
| Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries) | Packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can promote skin health. |
| Green Tea | It contains antioxidants known as catechins, which reduce inflammation and can thus help with acne. |
| Nuts and Seeds (Almonds, Walnuts, Chia Seeds) | They are rich sources of skin-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. |
| Turmeric | It contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit skin health. |
| Bell Peppers | Especially red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C – an essential nutrient for skin health. |
| Sweet Potatoes | High in beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in the body, a nutrient known for maintaining skin health. |
| Tomatoes | Rich in vitamin C and all major carotenoids, especially lycopene. These have been shown to fight acne. |
| Quinoa | Whole grains are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. |
| Dark Chocolate | It can improve skin health due to its high content of antioxidants. |
| Probiotics (Kefir, Yogurt, Kimchi) | Probiotics promote a healthy gut and balanced microbiome, which can help with skin health. |
Tea Tree Oil
Based on current scientific research, tea tree oil has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a few drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil can help reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria.
Green Tea
Drinking green tea or applying it topically can have numerous skin benefits, thanks to its high antioxidant content. It can help reduce inflammation and decrease oil production.
Honey and Cinnamon
Both honey and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants and have powerful antibacterial properties. You can create a mask using these two ingredients to soothe your skin and fight off acne-causing bacteria.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is another powerful natural remedy that can help combat acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can also soothe irritated skin and promote healing.
Preventing Acne Naturally
Preventing acne is equally as important as treating it. Regular skin care, a healthy diet, and certain lifestyle changes can help keep acne at bay.
Regularly Cleanse Your Skin
Regular cleansing can significantly remove excess oil and dead skin cells that can clog your pores. But remember not to overdo it, as overly aggressive cleansing can irritate your skin and cause more acne.
Don’t Pick or Pop Your Pimples
It might be tempting, but it can cause more inflammation and potentially lead to scarring. “Resist the urge to touch your face frequently, as it can spread bacteria and oil, contributing to more breakouts,” advises Dr. Boss.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet can result in acne. Ensuring you’re getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and managing your stress levels can significantly improve your skin health.
Sun Protection
While the sun can initially dry out pimples, it can also damage your skin and cause it to produce more oil, which can lead to more acne in the long run. Always apply sunscreen when you’re going out, even on cloudy days.
Acne is a common skin issue, but with a combination of these natural remedies and preventative measures, you can significantly improve your skin’s health.
Further Reading: 5 Foods That Cause Acne
