Acne is a skin condition that affects more than 85 percent of U.S teenagers each year. The condition is usually not serious and tends to affect teenagers more than adults, but adults may suffer from acne as well. It is estimated that almost 50 million people are suffering from acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. If you want to clear up your acne, you need to keep your skin and pores clean. You may need medical treatments, as well. Natural remedies, such as using neem powder, are also considered, but medical evidence to prove they are safe and effective in treating your acne is lacking.
Symptoms
When your pores collect dirt and oil that does not get cleaned out properly, it can result in acne. Acne happens when the pore becomes inflamed and may even develop a slight infection. Acne is sometimes flat on the face, showing just a white or black tip on your pore, or it can be a raised bump that may also be red or purple in color. Most often, acne is present on your face, but it can appear anywhere.
Properties
The neem tree is found in India and surrounding regions. Neem extracts have been used in many medicinal preparations, according to Drugs.com. There are around 700 preparations for neem treatments that involve use of the bark, leaves, stems and fruits.
Uses
Neem has been used as insecticides, insect repellants and oral dentifrices. In traditional medicine, it has been reportedly used to treat conditions such as malaria, worms, diabetes and cardiovascular issues. It has contraceptive, antiulcer and fungicidal properties.
Neem powder can be applied externally to your face as a mask, according to Discover Neem.com, an information site on neem applications. The mask may irritate your skin if left on too long or if it dries on your face. Recommendations are hard to give and individual results may vary. Discover Neem.com recommends starting with a small amount of neem and watch for any skin irritations; you can always increase the dose if you don't have any side effects. There is not enough medical evidence to prove that neem is safe or effective in treating acne.
Warnings
The seeds of the neem are poisonous in larger doses. Infant poisonings have been reported from the use of neem oil. Oral neem use for children cannot be recommended due to reported deaths from this type of use. It has not been tested for safety in pregnant or nursing mothers, so women should avoid use during this time.
Side Effects
In adults, there are no reported side effects associated with neem at normal doses. Side effects for children and infants who have used neem have been reported to be fatal in some cases.
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