Aspiring Spirit

Many people affected by acne tend to fear the side effects of the harsh chemicals often used in acne skin care products. These chemicals include tretinoin and salicylic acid, and have to potential to leave skin dry and irritated. Herbal acne cures may be a better choice for these people.

When treating a case of acne, the main idea is to have clean skin that’s not dry, to eliminate infectious bacteria, tighten pores which are oversized, and to quickly heal any open sores caused by outbreaks. Herbal acne cures do this using natural ingredients.

One alternative in the herbal acne cures area is a cleansing solution made by boiling herbs. Boil two ounces of strawberry, blackberry, or raspberry leaves in one quart of water, and then use a cotton ball to apply the solution to the skin. The herb basil, as well as tea bags, can also be used for this method. The acids in the leaves will kill off bacteria and also tighten up the pores.

While there are acne solutions that are meant to be applied to an entire area of skin, there are other solutions meant to be applied to single pimples. One of these herbal acne cures is a mixture of one tablespoon of groundnut oil and one tablespoon of lime juice. After the skin has been carefully cleansed, apply the mixture on each pimple.

You can also make a deep cleansing herbal mask from ordinary kitchen ingredients. Mix yogurt and oatmeal into a paste and apply as you would a mask. Let the mixture dry on your skin, then wash with lukewarm water and pat dry. You can also make a mask from honey and cinnamon powder, to use in the same way. These preparations can kill bacteria and soothe irritated skin, aiding healing.

Aloe vera can also assist the healing process. It is used for painful skin conditions, such as burns. The leaves of the yucca plant are turned into a gel, called aloe. In its pure condition it is clear to light green. Some preparations contain additional ingredients in aloe vera, so it is important to read labels very carefully.

There are also internal herbal remedies for acne. People sometimes recommend drinking wheat grass juice to clear up an acne outbreak, or taking zinc supplements to soothe irritated skin. You can locate wheat grass juice and zinc supplements in health or organic food markets.

Since anybody can be allergic to all sorts of things, beware before taking products like herbal acne remedies, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter items. Any of these may cause a negative reaction. Always be sure to check with your pharmacist, naturopath, or dermatologist, and look over the ingredients to ensure you see nothing you know you are allergic to. In addition, apply the product on a small patch of skin and wait a day before placing it on a large area (in case you see any reaction).

People affected by acne seek herbal acne cures to avoid the side effects associated with harsh chemicals found in acne skin care products. The natural acids in some herbs have antiseptic properties that are released by steeping plants or tea bags in boiling water. A paste comprised of groundnut oil and lime juice can be applied to individual pimples. Masks of yogurt and oatmeal or honey and cinnamon can help heal and soothe irritated skin. Aloe vera also speeds healing. Consider skin sensitivities when selecting the best herbal acne remedies for your condition. Consult specialists and test treatments on small areas of skin before expanding to larger areas.

- Tommy Thompson