5 Natural and Non-Natural Acne Treatments

 At some point, we have all tried to find ways to get rid of acne altogether. Here are some natural and not-so-natural acne treatments that have proven effective.

1. Witch Hazel Astringent

This astringent comes from the plant of the same name. It is widely distributed from Nova Scotia in Canada to Texas and Florida. Just vaporize the branches of this plant and voila! The extract you get serves as an astringent. However, be sure to refrigerate it. The good thing about this is that it happens naturally and even the process it goes through is completely natural. You can be sure that it is less strong than commercially produced astringents.

2. Commercially produced binders

There is no doubt that the astringents that we can buy without a prescription are also effective. There are many options to choose from with additional ingredients that improve the condition of the skin. The only drawback is that it can be a bit harsh due to the chemicals added to make this formula. Use them with extreme caution as they can dry out your skin.

3. All natural products

The kitchen and acne are two enemies that we may not know about. Find things like oranges and lemons, fresh garlic, and raw potatoes in your kitchen.

- Oranges and lemons just need to be squeezed into cotton balls. Apply the extract on the affected areas and wash it off after about 20 minutes.

- Fresh garlic is much easier to consume. Simply remove your peel and cleanse your face.

- As for raw potatoes, peel them and wipe your face with a flat surface.

The natural extracts from these fruits and vegetables can help reduce redness and lighten skin at the same time.

4. Oral antibiotics

In severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. These medications are taken by mouth to reduce the number of bacteria in and around the skin follicles. They also reduce the irritating chemicals that white blood cells produce. Finally, antibiotics reduce the concentration of free fatty acids found in sebum, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Consult a dermatologist for the correct antibiotic and dosage.

Tetracycline remains the most widely prescribed antibiotic for acne. Most of this antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach. Also, it should not be used by pregnant women and children under 9 years of age. The usual starting dose is 500 milligrams twice daily and is taken continuously until a prescription is given or a significant reduction in rash is noted.

Erythromycin ranks second and can be prescribed to pregnant women. However, it can cause nausea and even indigestion. Compared to tetracycline, which can only kill bacteria, erythromycin has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties. Also, this antibiotic should be taken on a full stomach with food. You can discuss other possible antibiotics with your doctors regarding the effects and side effects of each.

5. Topical treatment

Topical creams have also proven effective in treating acne. However, it does cause dryness and flaking, but is considered the most effective treatment for severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common and effective topical treatments for acne.