At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective.
1. Witch Hazel Astringent
This astringent comes from the plant with the same name. It is widely spread from Nova Scotia in Canada down to Texas and Florida. Simply steam the twigs of this plant and voila! The extract you get from it serves as your astringent. Remember to cool it though. What's good about this is that it occurs naturally and even the process it has undergone is all natural. You can be assured it is less harsh compared with commercially-produced astringents.
2. Commercially Produced Astringents
There is no doubt that astringents we can buy over-the-counter are also effective. There are lots of variants to choose from with additional ingredients that promote better skin. The only downside is it can be a little harsh because of the chemicals added to produce this formula. Use them with extra care as they can dry the skin.
3. All-Natural Treatments
Kitchen and acne are two enemies we may not be aware of. Scout your kitchen for stuff like oranges and lemons, fresh garlic and raw potatoes.
- Oranges and lemons just need to be squeezed on cotton balls. Apply the extract on affected areas and wash it after about 20 minutes.
- Fresh garlic is used much easier. Just remove its peeling and rub it on your face.
- As for raw potatoes, peel them and rub its flat surface on your face.
The natural extracts from these fruits and vegetables can help minimize the redness at the same time can clean the skin.
4. Oral Antibiotics
For severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. These medications are orally taken to reduce the amount of bacteria inside and around skin follicles. They also decrease the exasperating chemicals that the white blood cells produce. Lastly, antibiotics diminish the concentration of the free fatty acids found in sebum, also creating an anti-inflammatory action. Consult your dermatologist for the right antibiotic and dosage.
Tetracycline is still the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for acne treatment. Most of this antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach. Also, this shouldn't be used by pregnant women and children under 9. Usually, the starting dose is initially 500 milligrams twice daily and is continuously taken until prescribed, or until a considerable dropping off of lesions is visible.
Erythromycin comes close second and can be prescribed to pregnant women. However, it can cause nausea and even upset stomach. Compared to tetracycline, which can only kill bacteria, Erythromycin has both anti-inflammatory and bacteria-killing properties. Also, this antibiotic needs to be taken in a food-filled tummy. You may discuss other possible antibiotics with your doctors regarding the effects and side-effects of each.
5. Topical Treatments
Externally applied creams are also proven effective for acne treatment. However, it results to drying and flaking but it is said to be the most effective treatment for severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one very common and effective topical acne treatment.
Author is the webmaster of Best Acne Treatment. More useful articles about acne: Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment - the Whats, Whys, and Direction for Use and Acne Light Treatment - Light Therapy in Treating Acne.
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Snug Organic Pajamas: My girls get new PJ's each year for Christmas and a favorite in our house are the ultra warm and cozy Snug Pajamas. They are made in the US from natural undyed cotton, contain absolutely no chemicals, and are just so well made. In fact, my youngest daughter (seen above) has been wearing hers for 2 years and they still fit and are like new. (Find them at SnugOrganics.com for $58.00 US)
Green Toys: We love Green Toys, they are some of the only plastic you will find in our home. I love that they are safe (BPA and phthalate free) and eco made in the US from Recycled Milk Jugs. Best of all, kids love them! We have the Green Toys Tea Set and Dishes Set, but I am really loving the Recycling Truck above. (they are currently on sale at Bumblebee toys for 27.95 CAD).
If you are crafty at all (or even if your not) try making toys. My girls completely cherish the toys I have made them. Some past things I've made for the babies on my list are name banners, owl softies, quilts, and tag blankies. I get a ton of inspiration for homemade gifts on blogs such as Wee Folk Art, Made, and One Pretty Thing ( a new fave).
