How To Manage Acne Naturally and Effectively

Acne is one of the most common Skin disorders and often tends to cause some emotional distress in those people prone to break-outs.

The Reasons for Acne

In the past, teenagers with acne might have been suspected of having poor Skincare regimens. Fortunately, most people now know that this is not always the case. Teens and even adults in their 30s with good skin hygiene can still experience acne.

The primary cause is often thought to be a change in hormone levels. The hormone called androgen increases around adolescence, and that is often when acne appears. 

This is due to the fact that it triggers a boost in the amount of oil in the glands beneath the skin. This oil is called sebum, and it can often be produced to such an extent that it breaks down the walls of the oil gland and allows bacteria to become trapped and grow.

Many think that this is what triggers acne. There are also some studies suggesting that genetics play a role in acne. For example, if your mother had acne as a teenager, it is likely that you will as well. There are also some who say it is a component of another health issue such as diabetes, allergies, or certain skin and respiratory issues.

Either way you look at it, it is a common concern that affects millions of people between the ages of roughly 11 and 30 each year. In fact, it can hit people well into their 40s! So, it is best to practice some daily skincare steps that can often reduce or even eliminate acne.

The Best Skincare Regimen To Manage Acne

Before getting into the best skincare practices, it is important to mention that you should consider skipping skincare products packed with materials that are known irritants. Harsh chemicals that strip the skin of oils are to be avoided, heavy soaps and anything that will leave a residue behind should be removed from your daily regimen.

The skin needs to be nurtured with gentle moisturizers and cleansers that allows their ingredients to sink into the skin rather than just removing oil that is going to be replaced almost immediately by the skin to prevent it from drying out.

With this in mind, we suggest the following ways to address your acne:

• Cleansing - As mentioned earlier, daily cleansing is the best thing to do, but make sure that you use something that is chemical-free. For example, there is a natural and soap free product known as the Sebamed Cleansing Bar. This uses beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin E to help reduce free radicals, but it also maintains the integrity of the skin as it reduces sebum while moisturizing at the same time. Cleansing twice a day (in the morning and evening) is more than enough for results.
• Toning - Apple cider vinegar can help take care of the pH of the skin when used as a toner. This holds true for those with oily or dry skin, as well as people looking to reduce the appearance of scars associated with acne. 
• Spot treatment - No, not to cure the actual "spots" but to soothe areas where active breakouts are occurring. This too should be pH balanced and use only the finest and most natural ingredients to prevent further irritation to the skin.

It can be very difficult to live with acne. Not only is it uncomfortable and likely to cause you to feel shy or embarrassed, it is something that is frequently misunderstood. Stop using chemical laden treatments, turn to more natural and balanced skincare products, and you will see better results much faster. 

While all skincare regimens will need to be ongoing in order to keep the skin free of breakouts, once you find the right products you can be sure that good looking skin is just around the corner.

By Ellie Haines - Ellie is the Social Media Manager & E-Commerce Coordinator for New Zealand Health Food Company. You can read more content from Ellie on Google+