Acne is something that most, if not all of us, have had to deal with at some stage in our lives – at least, as teenagers when our hormonal levels are undergoing a drastic change. These hormones cause increased levels of sebum to clog our glands, leading to unsightly outbreaks of spots. While these outbreaks are not regarded as something that can be fully “cured” as such, there is a wide and diverse range of treatments available that can help reduce and significantly mitigate the severity of this ubiquitous and often psychologically debilitating skin condition.
The most common and readily available treatments can be found in chemists and drugs stores. Often salicylic acid can be found in the most effective commercial remedies – this is an ingredient that helps reduce sebum levels, thereby keeping pores unclogged. Salicylic acid also has antibacterial properties to help keep the skin clear.
Benzoyl peroxide is another common treatment. Often suggested by doctors for serious outbreaks, it works by dealing with the bacteria that is widely regarded as playing a key role in the development of spots and comedones.
There are, however, various natural products that many people afflicted with acne recommend above all else. It would perhaps be wise, therefore, to first of all try some of the wide variety of natural alternatives – especially before seeking out the prescription-only remedies that the medical establishment may offer to resolve the most troublesome of cases.
Coconut oil is quickly becoming one of the most popular dietary supplements and its topical uses are also extensively documented. Raw, organic and extra virgin coconut oil is believed to be the best form and can be found at very affordable prices online and from health shops. While many people report that coconut oil has in fact made their outbreaks even worse, this is actually a sign of the oil working by cleansing the skin and removing impurities. This aggravation can be expected to subside within around a week or so, after which skin should look and feel much improved.
Hemp oil is another great natural skincare product. Its efficacy in dealing with acne is believed to be related to the fact that its composition is incredibly similar to sebum. Using this oil on the spot-prone parts of your skin helps to inhibit sebum production as the skin is already saturated with a very similar substance. Hemp oil also cleanses and noticeably tightens pores for added benefit.
Should these remedies fail to work, prescription-only antibiotics such as oxytetracycline, tetracycline and doxycycline are also available through medical consultation. These treatments can be combined with the aforementioned products to attack the problem from all possible angles. Be aware, however, that these antibiotics can cause a wide range of side effects including dizziness, stomach upset and improper formation of teeth. They are also not recommended while pregnant or lactating.
