Affordable Acne Treatments

At one time or another, almost everyone has suffered from acne. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous gland (glands in the skin that secrete an oily substance) of the face, the neck and back. When the sebaceous glands become stopped up with the oily material they create, the buildup results in pimples. There are several forms of acne, but the most common is acne vulgaris, found primarily in adolescents.

Factors that contribute to acne include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional factors include allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants, cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle.

The skin helps get rid of a fraction of the body’s toxin waste by sweating. If the body holds more toxins than the kidneys or liver can successfully release, the skin takes over. In fact, some doctors call the skin the 3rd kidney. As toxins escape through the skin, they create issues that disrupt the health and integrity of the skin.

Recommendations for Wellness

Note: Some of these recommendations may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements are experienced.

Apply distilled white vinegar (can be diluted if too strong) to the face and affected areas. Allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.

A great natural exfoliate, that removes dead skin cells that may clog the pores, is either lemon or any citric fruit. Apply the juice of a lemon (or desired citric juice) to the face, as you would with the white vinegar. Let it dry for about 10 minutes, and then wash off with cold water. When applied the lemon juice can cause you to feel a mild stinging or burn. Diluting the juice is acceptable.

Increase water consumption. Water helps transport nutrients in the body and helps flush out toxins.

Eating a properly balanced diet can ensure proper nutrition. To make up for nutrients missing in today’s foods take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement.

Echinacea or Oregon grape, both can be used to enhance the immune system and fight acne-causing bacteria.

Dandelion, Burdock or red clover can help to keep the liver clear of toxic overload.

Another way to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce acne is by herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshine’s Ayurvedic Skin Detox, and BP-X.

Large amounts of vitamin A have been effectively used to treat severe acne. Large amounts, however, can be toxic and should only be used when working with your health care provider.

Think about adding extra zinc to your diet. Zinc helps heal tissues and assists in preventing scarring. It helps the body resist infection and inflammation.

To clear and heal the skin, try a homeopathic acne remedy. It can help to dry up pimples & prevent future outbreaks.