Acne can be frustrating and even embarrassing, but it can be a short-term problem. Rather than reach for a medicinal cure, create healthy habits that support skin health from within. Gentle cleaning, comedogenic products, healthy eating and essential oils can all improve and help maintain healthy skin.
Use More Water
Wash, steam and drink yourself to better skin health. Prevent clogged pores, the source of most acne, by washing your face at least twice a day. Be sure to remove all traces of make-up before you go to sleep. Wash gently with warm water, and pat your skin dry. You can also incorporate a weekly steam bath to encourage the pores to open. Boil 2 cups of water, and pour them into a wide glass bowl. Place a towel over your head (to trap the steam) and lower your head to the water. Breathe deeply for about five minutes, then wash with a gentle cleanser and cold water (to close the pores). Lastly, drink more water, and substitute other beverages for water to support your body’s elimination and detoxification.
Change Skin and Laundry Products
Switch skin care products (including sunscreen) to those clearly marked as noncomedogenic (oil-free) to prevent future clogged pores. You may also need to change hair care products, as they may be creating irritations on your skin. The Kids Health website recommends applying hair care products (such as sprays or gels) away from your face, as they may clog your pores. Be sure to wash hair regularly to prevent oil build-up which can leech into the skin. Consider changing hairstyles if necessary, to keep your hair off of your face. Finally, switch to laundry and bath soaps which have no fragrance and dyes or are designed for “sensitive” skin. Be sure to change your pillowcases frequently to prevent re-exposure to bacteria in your sweat and saliva.
Apply Cosmetics with Disposable Products
Use disposable products, such as cotton balls, to apply makeup. Re-using powder puffs and sponges can reintroduce bacteria to the skin. Ideally, seek out skin creams that can be squeezed from tubes, as they provide less risk of contamination. For products in tubs or pots, use a washable applicator to obtain enough product. Do not just dip your finger in and apply it to your skin, because you may be introducing germs to the entire product. Consider using blotting papers during the day to control oil build-up on the skin.
Eat Healing Foods
Eat whole foods with antibiotic properties to support skin healing. Acne occurs when bacteria, trapped within clogged pores, multiply in size. Vitamin C kills bacteria and is crucial for collagen formation, enabling the skin to retain is firmness and elasticity. Try eating more oranges, strawberries, melons or tomatoes, all of which are high in Vitamin C. Cook with more ginger and garlic, as both spices also have antibacterial properties.
Use Essential Oils
Try essential oils to improve skin health and healing, recommends Jeanne Rose, president emeritus of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. Rose notes that lavender oil is both soothing and antibacterial and is able to diminish the redness of acne while preventing future breakouts. She also recommends tea tree oil for its combined antifungal and antibacterial properties. To tame oily skin, try bergamot or rosemary oils, which have astringent properties. Please note that most essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin and may trigger additional skin allergies.
