Blemishes are marks or spots on the skin and can be the result of a number of underlying factors. Acne, blackheads, pimples and clogged pores are all causes of blemishes, and are often referred to as blemishes. There are hundreds of products that claim to treat blemishes and acne, but they can become costly and include harsh ingredients that you don't want to put on your skin. If you are looking for natural products to fight blemishes, you don't have to look further than your kitchen.
Egg Whites
Egg whites not only make a great tasting omelet, they also make a facial mask that helps treat blemishes and remove black heads. Egg whites contain enzymes called lysozymes, and in the December 2005 issues of the "Journal of Dermatological Science," research author F. Niyonsaba, of the Juntendo University School of Medicine in Tokyo, explains that lysozymes help promote healing of skin because of their antimicrobial, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Lysozymes also promote the turnover of cells, including skin cells. Lysozymes occur naturally in human skin, but a treatment of egg whites on blemish prone skin will assist in treating skin issues. Using an egg white on blemishes couldn't be easier. Simply separate the white from the yolk, whisk the white and apply it to your face. To remove blackheads, lay a tissue over the egg white while it is drying. When the egg white is dry, remove the tissue and you will remove blackheads with it.
Baking Soda
Baking soda--sodium bicarbonate--is an ingredient in many recipes for baked goods. As far as its use in treating blemishes, sodium bicarbonate cleanses and exfoliates the skin. Most blemishes are caused by pores that get clogged by dirt, dead skin and oils and using sodium bicarbonate on the skin helps loosen this debris so it can be washed away. To use this to treat blemishes, cleanse your face, or other blemished area, and then rinse with warm water. Put 1/4 cup of sodium bicarbonate in a bowl, and add just enough water to make it smooth enough to cover your skin.
Honey
When you think of treating blemishes, the last thing you consider putting on your face is something sweet and sticky. But honey has properties that make it an excellent acne fighter. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, honey can be used as an antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiseptic agent. Putting a swab of honey on acne, or spreading it over the blemished area as a mask, can help kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin and in the pores. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also soothe the redness and inflammation caused by acne.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is commonly found in many cosmetic ingredients, and for good reason. A report in the November 2008 issue of the "Archives of Dermatological Research" states that oatmeal contains compounds called avenanthramides, and it is these compounds that give oatmeal its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oatmeal soothes the skin, and can reduce the redness, swelling and itchiness that can be associated with acne. It is also an effective cleanser and exfoliate. Put some rolled oatmeal in a mesh bag or washcloth, hold it under warm, running water for 15 seconds, and then run the bag or washcloth over your skin to clean it. Oatmeal can also be put directly into bath water. Put a strainer over the drain to catch excess oatmeal so it doesn't clog the drain.
References
- Love To Know: Skin Care: Egg Whites
- PubMed: Abstract: Journal of Dermatological Science: Protective Roles of the Skin Against Infection; Lysozyme
- Arm and Hammer: Baking Soda Body Usage and Tips
- New Zealand Dermatological Society: Honey
- PubMed: Abstract: Avenanthramides, Polyphenols from Oats, Exhibit Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Itch Activity
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