In a world full of pills and chemicals for quick fixes, what place does holistic medicine have for skin care? You might be surprised to find out that holistic medicine can be just as effective as chemicals, and, in addition, heals the body as a whole unit long-term, as opposed to acting like a band-aid that only works to cover up the problem.
When using natural treatments, it is important to use high quality products that are raw and organic, since these produce the best results. Here are seven natural acne treatments you can substitute for your chemical-based products:
Raw Honey
Raw honey has natural healing and anti-bacterial properties, making it perfect to use as a mild cleanser. In addition, it is moisturizing, and can help your body naturally retain moisture. To use raw honey as a cleanser, simply take 1 or 2 teaspoons of raw honey with moistened fingers and spread onto fingertips. Then apply onto a dry face. Note: raw honey alone will not cure severe acne; it is best paired with other natural treatments.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) first became popular when both Scarlett Johansson and Hilary Duff admitted to using it as acne medication. ACV’s wonders are many:
- It naturally balances your skin’s PH
- It has strong anti-bacterial properties
- It will gradually decrease zits, cysts and pimples
- It cleanses and closes pores, allowing your skin to breathe properly
To use ACV to treat your acne, either apply it as a toner (1/2 ACV and 1/2 water), a spot treatment on trouble areas, or as a cleansing wash that you leave on for 10-20 minutes. You can also drink ACV; drinking ACV balances your stomach’s PH and improves digestion.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural plant with a gel-like consistency inside the plant. It has powerful healing properties, and is best used to reduce the swelling and redness from acne. Aloe vera can also help relieve the pain of irritated cysts. To use aloe vera on the skin, either use it as moisturizer, spot treatment or face mask.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural anti-bacterial properties, and is known for absorbing excess oil when applied onto the skin. It has also been shown to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide for mild to moderate acne but with fewer side effects. In addition, it will not strip the skin of essential oils. To use tea tree oil, simply apply to problem areas 1-3 times a day.
Lemon
Lemons are natural disinfectants, making lemons a good solution for acne. Lemons also work well to help fade acne scars naturally. To use lemon for acne or scars, simply apply to problem areas for 10-20 minutes; then rinse off.
Natural Oils
It’s a common misconception that acne-prone skin should avoid moisture. The wonderful thing about applying natural oils onto the skin is they include no irritating ingredients, will not strip the skin of natural oils, and works to nourish the skin in addition to moisturizing it. Some good choices for acne-prone skin include:
- Jojoba oil
- Castor oil
- Avocado oil
- Hemp seed oil
- Grape seed oil
Jojoba oil is particularly for acne-prone skin, since it seems to mimic sebum production, resulting in the body producing less sebum. Whichever oil you choose, make sure the oil is organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined.
Herbal Supplements and Super-foods
Acne is often the result of inner chaos within the body, whether brought on by hormonal changes, digestive problems, or toxicity in the body. Herbal supplements and super-foods are a wonderful way to help your body restore itself. If you suffer from hormonal acne, consider trying maca root. If you struggle with digestive problems, consider wheatgrass or spirulina, both which have been shown to help with digestion and cleansing toxicity.
Healthy Living
It should be a given that healthy living produces good skin, but it is an added element that is often not discussed by dermatologists. Regular exercise, fruits and vegetables, and low-processed food intake will do wonders for both your health and your skin.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, all information in this article is for informational purposes only and should be discussed with your doctor before making any drastic changes.
Featured photo credit: Viktor Hancek via Picjumbo via picjumbo.com
