Acne scars still prove to be bothersome to many people, and people tend to become quite dejected by it. Scientists say if one can control the size of the acne lesion, the deep scars of the acne can be prevented. The large pustules, cysts, nodules, and the papules leave behind some notches which heavily affects the confidence level of any individual. Acne is itchy in nature and causes a lot of irritation.
Stress: A Major Trigger for Acne?
The first step in tackling acne could very well be tackling stress. Researchers believe that there is a vital link between acne and stress. The stress hormones affect the equilibrium of the system in an adverse way. This in turn leads to several changes in the body including weight gain, increased blood pressure, and acne. One of the best ways to fight stress-related acne is to practice some stress management techniques.
Environmental Hazards
If you normally get acne at a particular spot, for example on your right chin or on your left cheek, then environmental factors may be playing a role. Pollution in the atmosphere can increase the chances of developing acne. Acne cysts are a severe form of acne, which results in the development of scars.
Oil Glands and Acne
In every square inch of our skin, there are about 2,000 oil glands in the cheeks and nose. These oil glands toil in producing sebum and oil. The oil that is produced in here flows through the tiny ducts on the surface of the skin and reaches the follicles that are present. The internal lump, which is also called a blemish, begins to form about three weeks before it usually appears on the skin. Usually acne starts out from the sebaceous hair follicles which can be seen through the pores. Pores are tiny holes in the outer layer of the skin.
Clogging of Pores Worsens Acne
A natural skin process, sloughing, causes clogging of pores and worsens the situation further. Sloughing is a process in which the dead skin tissues are being separated from the living tissues. This may not always occur evenly. As a result of uneven sloughing, the dead cells get accumulated, which plugs the sweat and sebaceous glands, similar to that of a cork in a bottle.
Oil and bacteria get easily attracted to this clogged space which results in the formation of a lump. The defense mechanism of the body, our immune system, gets alarmed by this formation and prepares an army of white blood corpuscles to attack the bacterial troop. After a struggle for about two to three weeks, it results in pimples.
Lanolin - the Acne Stimulant
There are many acne stimulants. One such stimulant is Lanolin. Lanolin is a wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep. Lanolin is an essential ingredient in many beauty care products, such as soaps, cosmetics, and ointments. However, it being a waxy substance stimulates the production of acne. Therefore, people who are acne prone should choose products that do not have lanolin in them.
Holistic System for Acne Cure
The certified Nutrition Specialist and Health Consultant, Mike Walden, has come up with a holistic system in order to clear up acne completely. His methods have helped many to clear up acne without taking the help of creams, drugs, and ointments. Some simple self-care measures like washing your skin frequently with a gentle cleanser and restricting yourself from picking or touching acne form part of his regimen. When it comes to acne, facial care demands top priority. You should avoid touching and picking acne because fingers and nails are great carriers of bacteria.
Other objects that are bacteria-breeding grounds and should be avoided are dirty towels, dirty pillowcases, and cell phones. Apart from these, make sure that your hair doesn't fall on your face often, as the dirt and oil from your hair can be passed on to your face and could result in aggravation of your symptoms. Another habit to avoid is squeezing the pimple. This will end up in blemishes and scars.
Diets that Prevent Acne
Some foods that you can incorporate in your diet that will help prevent acne formation are:
- With anti-inflammatory chemical catechins, organic green tea prevents acne.
- Olive oil contains mono-unsaturated fats and essential fatty acids; when regularly massaged, it prevents the formation of acne.
- Berries are rich in phytochemicals which protect skin cells.
- Water is the best hydrant and skin rejoices when it is supplied with enough water, say skin experts. Therefore, drink plenty of water.
Home Remedies for Acne
If your skin is acne afflicted, there are some home remedies which you can try:
- Place orange peel in the acne-affected area to treat acne.
- Mix honey and cinnamon powder into a paste. Apply it before going to bed and wash it off in the morning. This is a good natural remedy!
- For treating pimples, cracked skin, and black heads; mix half a glass of boiled milk with fresh lime and spread it evenly on the affected area.
- Another good home remedy is to apply a paste made from turmeric powder and mint juice. Wash the face after 30 minutes in lukewarm water.
- In the affected area, place a slice of lemon and leave it undisturbed for 10 minutes to see effective results.
- Mix some lemon juice in olive oil and apply it on acne scars. Wash it off with warm water after 15 to 20 minutes. This is effective in helping acne scars fade away.
Although acne is not a life threatening condition, the psychological impact that an acne-disfigured face can have on the individual is something to give a thought to. These guidelines and tips will help you prevent acne and treat the scars and change your skin from looking awful to awesome!
