Acne is the most common skin disease in the world, affecting up to 80% of people aged between 11 years and 30 years. (1) Acne is caused by the pores of your skin blocking up due to excess production of sebum (oil produced by the glands under the skin), and affects the face, back, chest and shoulders. A blocked pore normally leads to the development of pimples on the skin and these can be unsightly, causing embarrassment, scarring and even affect the self-esteem of people who are affected by these conditions. There are several causes of blocked pores and their resulting acne. These include hormonal imbalances, a poor diet, contraceptives and other types of medication, pregnancy and many others. Acne has conventionally been treated using medications prescribed by skin doctors. However, most of these medications are only effective up to a point, have several side effects and do not really solve the underlying problems that cause acne. The best way to stop acne is from the inside out and the following are a few of the most effective natural remedies to help you get rid of acne forever:
There are several causes of blocked pores and their resulting acne. These include hormonal imbalances, a poor diet, contraceptives and other types of medication, pregnancy and many others. Acne has conventionally been treated using medications prescribed by skin doctors. However, most of these medications are only effective up to a point, have several side effects and do not really solve the underlying problems that cause acne. The best way to stop acne is from the inside out and the following are a few of the most effective natural remedies to help you get rid of acne forever:
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Use Omega 3 EFA’s
Omega 3 essential fatty acids have been shown to aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation in the body, thus reducing your chances of breaking out, promoting cell regeneration and ultimately giving you a soft and smooth complexion. Great sources of omega 3’s include fatty fish like salmon, nuts and seeds, hemp hearts, organic eggs, flax and chia seeds, and grass-fed butter.
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Reduce Estrogen Dominance
Estrogen (2) is a hormone responsible for the development of female sexual characteristics such as the growth of breasts and regulation of the menstrual cycle. However, a poor diet, exposure to heavy metals, chemicals in food and beauty products and other aspects of modern life can lead to overproduction of estrogen. Excess estrogen has been shown to increase acne breakouts. Treating estrogen dominance by avoiding processed foods and chemicals will help to reduce acne and give you a clean and clear complexion. Ensure to get good sleep, exercise to help remove toxins from the body, and consume your daily recommended intake of water.
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Lymph detoxification
The lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating wastes and toxins from the body. (3). Using the lymphatic vessels and lymphatic organs, it brings toxins to the body’s surface so that they can be eliminated effectively. However, for the system to work effectively, it requires continuous body movement in order to get everything flowing properly. If the system is clogged, it can result in acne. The best ways to remedy this include getting enough exercise, infrared sauna’s, and the use of special massage techniques such as dry brushing. If you are unfamiliar with dry brushing, learn how and all the benefits in the article here.
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Develop a proper cleansing, toning, and exfoliating regime
A proper skin care regime is necessary for removing dead skin cells to allow for regeneration, getting rid of excess sebum and other impurities such as dust that can lead to pore blockage. Using natural cleansers, toners and exfoliators that are gentle on the skin is the best way to keep your skin clean and clear and ensure that toxins and other impurities are eliminated effectively. If you are looking for a natural at home face mask, give this healthy hydrating face mask recipe a try.
5. Use the right moisturizers
Your skin needs oil in order to maintain its elasticity and keep looking soft and supple. However, harsh cosmetic products often strip the skin of oils completely, leading to an overproduction of serum and its resulting acne. Using the right oils i.e. natural ones which are easily absorbed into the skin as well as those that promote anti-inflammation is one of the best ways to prevent breakouts. I personally love mixing jojoba oil with a few drops tea tree or sage essential oil as a night-time moisturizer.
6. The Carrot Trick
Raw carrots have been found to contain special compounds that bind harmful chemicals such as estrogens and eliminate them from the body. Just one carrot a day is effective in performing this function, resulting in reduced estrogen activity and the prevention of acne breakouts.
Acne can seem like a scourge that wreaks havoc on your looks in addition to severely affecting your self-esteem. However, it is possible to treat this condition naturally from the inside out and ensure a strong skin with a healthy glow that will make you feel like your most confident self.