8 Natural Remedies for Acne Redness
There are numerous home remedies for treating acne that do not involve resorting to manufactured anti acne products, some of which can be expensive. Here are some home remedies to reduce acne and alleviate the bi-product of acne – the inflamed skin that can cause acne redness and acne scaring.
1. Vitamins and Minerals
Firstly it must be stated that any home remedies you apply will be enhanced by maintaining a proper diet rich in the vitamins and minerals. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can affect the skins ability to function optimally and heal itself. The vitamins most important for preventing acne are Vitamin A, B, C, E and the mineral Zinc.
Vitamin A - The American Academy of Dermatology reports that vitamin A is vital to the health of both your skin and your eyes. While dairy products are high in vitamin A they can also contribute to acne. An alternative and rich source of vitamin A can be found in liver. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin A include carrots, tomatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, Apricots, grapefruit and mangos.
Vitamin B - While B6 deficiency is rare the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institute of Health states that inflammation of the skin is one sign of B6 deficiency. Vitamin B6 is high in soy beans, yeast, wheat, and sunflower seeds and walnuts.
Vitamins C and E - Vitamins C and E to protect the body and for its antioxidant properties that are important for healthy skin and preventing inflammation. Most fruits are high in Vitamins C and E
Zinc - A study conducted at Duke University provides evidence that Zinc is an important antioxidant supporting healthy skin. It also facilitates healing thereby reducing acne scaring. Foods highest in zinc include oysters, wheat germ, roasted pumpkin, lamb and peanuts.
2. Cold Compress
Try applying a cold compress or an ice pack on your acne for about 10 minutes. You can also obtain a clean washcloth and wrap it around a few ice cubes from the freezer. Applying something cold on your face will temporarily soothe the irritation and reduce any acne redness.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol which is a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
Just grind and crush some peppermint using a mortar and pestle. Apply the juices
and leave on your skin for a few minutes and then rinse with cold water. This
treatment should help to alleviate inflammation and the pain it causes. While a
negative reaction is fairly uncommon, do not continue if it irritates your skin.
4. Garlic
It may seem strange, but garlic can also reduce acne redness and swelling. Use half a clove of garlic and rub it onto the area affected. If you are not comfortable with the idea of rubbing garlic on your face, you may also use garlic oil. Remember to wash your face afterwards, or you will reek of garlic all day
5. Eye drops
Eye drops do not only clear red eyes but help clear the skin of redness caused by acne. You should only apply a few drops onto the effected areas every few hours.
6. Goats Milk
While drinking milk can result in more acne,
applying goats milk to the skin can alleviate it. The vitamin content and ideal pH level of goat's milk helps neutralize
the effect of bacteria and contaminants, which usually cause skin
infections such as acne. The lactic acid not only
reduces acne redness, but also helps to regenerate skin cells. Milk also contains
protein, which soothes the skin and minimizes irritation. Dip a cotton swab or
cotton ball in goats milk and apply it onto your acne.
7. Lemon juice and Rose Water
Create a mixture of lemon juice and rose water. Apply the mixture on your face and leave it on for half an hour. Afterwards, rinse your face with water. Do this for two weeks. This treatment may take a while, but you will notice a great improvement in your skin.
8. Aloe Vera
Applying a thin layer of Aloe Vera gel on your acne will soothe and heal the skin minimizing acne scaring and acne redness. If you want a cooler sensation, you may also opt to chill the Aloe Vera gel in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
These eight treatments are very simple and can all be done at home. Hopefully, any one of these treatments will reduce acne redness and give you clearer skin.
