Naturopathic acne treatments use the least invasive, least toxic and natural therapies available, according to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. The remedies enhance your body's ability to heal itself. While treating your body as a whole unit, not individual parts, these remedies can help to restore your skin to a healthy level. Be patient, since naturopathic treatments take six to eight weeks to show results, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Zinc
The trace mineral zinc plays a role in healing your acne inflammation and wounds, according to the Mayo Clinic. Use oil-free skin care products that contain zinc as an active ingredient to help your acne. Consume zinc in supplement form, as part of a multimineral and vitamin, or a la carte. Talk with your doctor prior to taking zinc supplements if you are taking any acne medications. Supplements may interfere with your medications. Eating a variety of zinc-rich foods is another way to nourish your skin. Zinc-rich foods include those rich in protein, according to the National Institutes of Health. Animal products such as beef, lamb, pork, fish and poultry contain the largest amounts of the nutrient. Plant-based sources such as legumes, peanuts and peanut butter contain zinc, also.
Stop Eating Harmful Foods
Stop eating foods known for aggravating acne, according to healthcommunities.com. These include processed foods, nut butters, fried foods, fast foods, junk foods, margarine, caffeine and dairy products. Determine what foods you are sensitive to and avoid eating them.
Tree Tea Oil
Tree tea oil may reduce your acne symptoms, according to both the Mayo Clinic and the University of Maryland Medical Center. Topically applied, this herb may help lessen your acne's inflammation and bacteria levels. Tree tea oil, in a 5 percent solution, can be as effective as lotions containing benzoyl peroxide, an over-the-counter acne treatment.
Use Good Skin Care Techniques
Using good skin care techniques will help your acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Treat your skin gently to avoid irritating your acne. Stop vigorously scrubbing or rubbing your face. After washing your face, gently pat-dry with a towel. Let the towel absorb the moisture. Wash your skin once or twice daily with a mild cleanser, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Stop picking, popping or squeezing your acne. These behaviors will increase your acne's inflammation and, potentially, leave permanent scars. Remove makeup prior to bedtime. Decrease the amount of time you spend touching your face. The more you touch your acne, the more likely your symptoms will flare and worsen. Keep your hair clean and away from your face. Shower after exercising to remove excess sweat. Sweat and humidity increase acne symptoms, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Avoid Certain Products
Watch what you put onto your skin. Avoid using exfoliators and other scrubbing particle-based products. Stop using oil-based cosmetics and facial creams, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Oil-based skin care products clog your pores, worsening your acne. Do not apply rubbing alcohol to your acne. Rubbing alcohol can irritate and increase your symptoms. Stop using oil-containing and greasy hair care products. These products can clog your skin pores by dripping onto your acne. Avoid heavy makeup foundations that can clog your skin pores.
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