Acne is a condition involving the formation of pimples on the skin, generally on areas such as the face, back or shoulders. There are many natural remedies for acne, including topical treatments, herbal and nutritional supplements and lifestyle-based therapies.
Topical Treatments
Topical acne treatments directly affect the skin to shrink pores, dry excess oil or reduce inflammation. Tea tree oil and glycolic acid can be effective in treating some forms of acne. According to Mayo Clinic, solutions containing 5 percent tea tree oil are as effective as those made from equivalent amounts of benzoyl peroxide--a common over-the-counter acne medicine. Glycolic acid speeds removal of dead skin cells, unclogs pores and improves the appearance of scars.
Other topical treatments such as honey, lemon juice and witch hazel may also be helpful in decreasing oil and other factors that can aggravate acne.
Oral Supplements
Oral acne treatments work indirectly by treating the underlying conditions that contribute to pimple formation.
Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin. According to MedScape, a deficiency of vitamin A can cause skin symptoms including pruritis (itching), dry skin and follicular hyperkeratosis, a skin disease that causes clogging of hair follicles and skin papules. Vitamin A is abundant in yellow and orange foods such as pumpkins, squash and carrots and can be taken safely in doses of up to 700mcg. daily, according to Medline Plus.
According to Mayo Clinic, zinc supplements may also be helpful in speeding wound healing and treating the inflammation that leads to acne. Other potentially effective supplements include Echinacea, garlic and milk thistle.
Side Effects
Like all treatments, natural acne remedies can cause unwanted side effects. Topical acne treatments are generally associated with minor irritation, dry skin and temporary worsening of acne. Substances with astringent properties such as tea tree oil and lemon juice can cause excess drying of skin and a mild burning sensation; oral supplements are more likely to cause gastrointestinal effects including nausea. Oral supplements have a broader range of possible side effects and shouldn't be taken without a doctor's supervision.
Lifestyle Modifications
Diet and hygiene factors can play a major role in the treatment of acne. Although no direct link has been established, excessive consumption of foods high in sugar, saturated fat and sodium is associated with an overall worsening of health, which can include the condition of skin.
In some instances, infrequent washing of skin and hair can worsen the oiliness that leads to clogged pores and pimple formation. Wash your face and hair two to three times daily, but don't over-wash. Too much washing causes excess drying that will aggravate the condition. Avoid picking at pimples to help prevent these symptoms.
Considerations
According to the National Institutes of Health, endocrine disorders including polycystic ovary disease, acromegaly and Cushing's disease can cause acne in some people. So can medications such as lithium, testosterone and estrogen. In such cases, treating the underlying condition or discontinuing the offending medication may be necessary for improvement.
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