REMEDIES FOR ACNE

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne usually appears on your face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. Effective treatments are available, but acne can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up.

Symptoms

Acne signs and symptoms vary depending on the severity of your condition:

• Whiteheads (closed plugged pores)
• Blackheads (open plugged pores — the oil turns brown when it is exposed to air)
• Small red, tender bumps (papules)
• Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips
• Large, solid, painful lumps beneath the surface of the skin (nodules)
• Painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the surface of the skin (cystic lesions)

Cause

Four main factors cause acne:

Oil production

Dead skin cells

Clogged pores

Bacteria

Acne typically appears on your face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. These areas of skin have the most oil (sebaceous) glands. Acne occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.

Hair follicles are connected to oil glands. These glands secrete an oily substance (sebum) to lubricate your hair and skin. Sebum normally travels along the hair shafts and through the openings of the hair follicles onto the surface of your skin.

When your body produces an excess amount of sebum and dead skin cells, the two can build up in the hair follicles. They form a soft plug, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. If the clogged pore becomes infected with bacteria, inflammation results.

The plugged pore may cause the follicle wall to bulge and produce a whitehead. Or the plug may be open to the surface and may darken, causing a blackhead. A blackhead may look like dirt stuck in pores. But actually the pore is congested with bacteria and oil, which turns brown when it's exposed to the air.

Pimples are raised red spots with a white center that develop when blocked hair follicles become inflamed or infected. Blockages and inflammation that develop deep inside hair follicles produce cyst like lumps beneath the surface of your skin. Other pores in your skin, which are the openings of the sweat glands, aren't usually involved in acne.

Remedies for Acne

We all want clear face without any blemishes, but some or the other way, our skin gets infected by bacteria and other exposures, resulting in acne. However, acne can be treated with some home ingredients. Here are some natural and simple home remedies for the treatment of acne.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are known for its antioxidant properties and are rich in Vitamin C, A and K. All these properties help in drying out the acne. For healing acne, take one tomato and slice it. Put one slice directly on the troubled area.

You can also make a paste by grinding a tomato. You are required to apply the paste as a facial mask. For better results, repeat the process as many times as possible.

2. Potato

Potato possesses bleaching properties and is a natural remedy for acne on face. All you need to do is to use a boiled potato on the infected area. This will not only remove the hyper-pigmentation, but also prevent wrinkles and make the skin brighter.

You can use a raw potato also. Slice a potato and put one slice on the acne. Leave it for 10 minutes. The potato will act as an anti-bacterial agent and defeat the infecting bacteria.

One of the other ways to use boiled potato is to mash it and add 2 teaspoons of milk powder to it. Mix it firmly to form a paste. Apply it on the face. After 15 minutes, clean the face with water.

To remove the acne scars, massage some grated potato on the face.

3. Cinnamon and Honey

Honey is known as the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent and is one of the best home remedies for acne. It kills the infecting bacteria and prevents acne. For effective results, use it with cinnamon. Take some cinnamon powder and add honey to it to make a paste. Apply it on the face as a mask, covering the infected area. Leave it overnight. Next morning, wash it off with water. It will help in getting rid of pimples from its roots.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon is a wonder solution for the treatment of acne. The citric acid present in lemon is a natural cleanser that helps in opening the blocked pores and soothing the skin. Take one lemon and squeeze it in a bowl. Now, take one cotton ball and dip it in the lemon juice. Place it directly on the acne.
Alternatively, take a slice of lemon and rub it gently on the face. Leave it for a few minutes and then, rinse it off.
You can also use lemon juice with groundnut oil. Add a few drops of lemon juice in someone tablespoons of groundnut oil. Apply it on the blackheads.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a very good solution for the treatment of acne. It helps in balancing the pH of the skin. Apple cider vinegar is rich in malic and lactic acids. It acts as an exfoliator and softener for the skin. Add vinegar in water in the ratio of 1:3. With the help of a cotton ball, apply the solution on the infected area. Leave it for ten minutes. Rinse the face thoroughly. For best results, practice the method for several times a day.

6. Olive Oil

Can olive oil be a good home remedy for acne? Yes, olive oil is an effective home remedy for healing acne. Olive oil is recognised for its anti-bacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil is used with lemon juice for removing acne. All you need to do is to add 1/8 teaspoon of lemon juice in ¼ teaspoon of olive oil. Apply the mixture on the face directly.

You can also add a pinch of salt in some olive oil. Apply it on the face and wash it off with warm water.

7. Cucumber

Cucumber is known for moisturizing and removing extra oil from the skin. It also helps in removing the dead cells from the skin. Cucumbers can be used as a face wash. Crush a cucumber and add some water to it.  Mix it well and apply it directly on the face.
Cucumber juice, mixed with carrot juice, can also be used to remove acne. Regular intake of these juices also helps in alleviating the problem.

8. Garlic

Garlic consists of zinc, sulphur, allicin, and calcium, due to which, it acts as an anti-fungal and antibiotic for cleansing the skin. For curing acne fast, crush some raw garlic cloves and make a paste. Apply this paste directly on the acne to see the results.

Garlic can also be used as a facial mask. Add some egg yolk in the garlic juice. Stir it well and apply it on face, covering the infected area. Leave it for twenty minutes. Wash it off with clean water and dry your face with a clean towel.

9. Baking Soda

Baking soda acts as a natural exfoliator for the skin. It is known for removing the dead cells and maintaining pH balance of the skin. With its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it is one of the best remedies for healing acne. Take 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder and some drops of lemon juice. Then, add 5 teaspoons of honey. Stir the mixture well. Apply the mix directly on the face. Rinse it off after five minutes.

Baking soda can also be used with water to treat acne. Add some water to baking soda and apply it on the infected area. Leave it for five minutes and then, wash it off. To see the difference, practice this method twice a week.

10. Fuller’s Earth

Fuller’s earth, commonly known as multani mitti, is known for absorbing extra oil from the skin. It is a natural remedy for the treatment of acne. To start the process, mix fuller’s earth, sandalwood powder and rose water in equal quantity. Mix the paste well and apply the pack on the face. After it gets dried, wash it off with clean water.
You can also use orange juice in multani mitti to cure acne.

11. Oatmeal

Is oatmeal a good home remedy for acne? Well, yes! Oatmeal is an effective acne treatment at home. It helps in cleaning the skin pores and absorbing extra oil. Cook some oatmeal and take it out in a bowl. Add a teaspoon of honey and juice of half lemon to it. Stir the mixture well and apply gently on the face. Leave it for half an hour. After it gets dried, wash it off with lukewarm water.

12. Toothpaste

This is a wonderful fact that toothpaste is also useful in treating acne. It is one of the best and simplest home remedies for acne. Simply apply some toothpaste on acne and leave it overnight. The toothpaste will effectively reduce the swelling of acne. It will also dry out the acne. For its effective results, practise the method daily and see the difference in two or three days.

13. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is beneficial for treatment of several skin problems, including acne. Its anti-bacterial properties help in cleaning clogged skin pores and helps in preventing future outbreak. Mix tea tree oil and water in 1:9 ratio. Take a cotton ball and dip it in the solution. Place the cotton ball on the problematic area.
You can also directly put a drop of tea tree oil on acne.

Note- Tea tree oil should not be ingested.

14. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera helps in reducing acne scars and acts as a pain inhibitor and a coagulating agent. Take a leaf of aloe vera and cut it into two halves. Extract fresh juice from it by squeezing the jelly-like pulp and apply it gently on the acne. You can also add some lemon drops in the juice for effective results.
You can also use packaged aloe vera juice, which is available in the market.

15. Orange Peel

For the treatment of face acne, orange peel can be an effective home remedy. Put some orange peels in the sun to dry out. Grind these dried peels into powder. Add water in the powder to make a paste. Apply the paste gently on the acne. Leave it for fifteen minutes and wash it off with warm water. Vitamin C present in orange helps in treating the acne on the face. It also helps in getting rid of pigmentation, blackheads, wrinkles, and dark spots.

16. Indian Lilac (Neem)

Indian lilac or neem is known for its medicinal properties. It is an antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic herb. You are required to make a paste of few neem leaves by adding a little quantity of water. Put some turmeric powder in the paste and mix it well. Gently apply the paste on the infected area. After it gets dried, rinse it off with warm water.

17. Fenugreek (Methi)

One of the best home remedies for severe acne is fenugreek. Both the leaves and seeds of fenugreek are effective for the treatment of acne. Take some fenugreek leaves and grind them. Add some water to form a paste. Apply it directly on the affected area. After 10-15 minutes, wash it with clean water. For best results, try the method thrice a week.

You can also use fenugreek seeds. Take two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds. Wash it well and soak it overnight in a glass bowl. Now, crush the seeds to form a thick paste. Add some aloe vera gel in the paste. Stir it well and apply it on the acne. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. Apply some moisturizer after the process completes.

18. Mint

One of the best home remedies to clear the severe acne is mint. Mint is effective on any type of acne because of its medicinal properties. Take some fresh mint leaves and crush them. With the help of a cotton ball, apply this paste on the acne. Leave it for 20 minutes. Then, wash the face with cold water. Repeat the process after every two days.
You can also apply mint juice with the help of cotton ball on acne.

19. Turmeric

Turmeric is effective for multiple skin problems. It actually absorbs extra oil from skin and fights against the infecting bacteria. Take some turmeric powder and add it with crushed neem leaves. Apply the paste on acne for 30 minutes. When it gets dried, wash it with water.

Else, put four tablespoons of turmeric powder in a bowl. Add four tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of milk in it. Stir the mixture well and apply it on acne in a circular motion. Rub it gently for 10 minutes. Leave it overnight and rinse in the morning.

You can also make a pack of half teaspoon of turmeric powder and 2 teaspoons of yogurt. Add a very little quantity of honey and stir it well to form a smooth paste. Apply the pack on the face. After 30 minutes, rinse it off with water.

20. Nutmeg (Jaiphal)

Nutmeg possesses anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It is a herbal remedy for curing acne. Take a nutmeg and grind it into powder. Add unboiled milk or water to form a paste. Now, apply it on acne and leave it for twenty minutes. Wash it off when it completely gets dried.
To remove acne scars, nutmeg powder can also be used with honey. It will reduce the acne swelling.

21. Rose Water and Sandalwood

The pack of sandalwood and rosewater is considered to be very soothing for face. The anti-microbial properties of sandalwood help in cleaning the face and maintain its flawless glow. Put 2 tablespoon of sandalwood powder in a mixing bowl. Add pure rosewater to make a pack. Mix it carefully to avoid lumps. Now, wash your face with clean water and apply the pack, gently. Let it dry for 20 minutes. Clean your face with cold water and pat with a towel. You can also pour a few drops of glycerine to boost the curing process.

22. Ice

Rubbing ice cubes on the face will decrease the size of acne and helps in healing the acne pain. You are required to take a few ice cubes and wrap them in a clean cloth. Now, rub it gently on the face, specially covering the infected area until the area becomes insensitive. If you have a lot of acne, you can hold ice for five minutes on the infected area. This will minimize the redness and inflammation of acne.

23. Herbal Tea

A cup of tea is not only meant to relieve from stress, but also helps in treating acne. Herbal tea or green tea has been proven to be the best remedy for several health problems. Drink two cups of Chasteberry tea per day when acne pops up before menstruation period.

Alternatively, take some organic tea leaves and place them in a bowl. Now, add boiling water in it and let the leaves steep for some time. After five minutes, when the solution cools down at room temperature, dip a cotton ball in the solution. Place it directly on the acne.

24. Aspirin

Crush 2-3 pills of aspirin. Add some water in the crushed aspirin to make a paste. Now, apply the paste on the acne. After it gets dried, wash your face with clean water. The salicylic acid in aspirin helps in killing the acne-causing bacteria. You can add honey or witch hazel to make the paste more nourishing.

Note- It should not be applied frequently on face; else, it will dry out and irritate the skin.

25. Alum

Alum is an antiseptic agent, which acts as a styptic and natural deodorant. Take a piece of alum and rub it gently on acne. This will effectively speed up the healing process. Alum is beneficial for oily skin. Alum is one of the natural home remedies, which is effective for back acne.

26. Yogurt

Yogurt is helpful in healing acne, naturally. Apply some yogurt on the affected area. Leave it for 10-15 minutes. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which acts as an exfoliator and rejuvenates skin in a natural manner. This remedy will reduce the irritating acne breakouts.

Another remedy is to add a little milk and a few drops of honey in yogurt. Stir the mixture finely. Gently massage the mixture on the face for 20 minutes. After some time, clean your face with water and dry it with a towel.

27. Papaya

Papaya is a natural remedy for the acne problems. It is an essential ingredient in various beauty products. Raw papaya, when used on face, removes dead cells and extra oil from the skin. The enzyme papain in papaya helps in preventing the formation of pus. Mash some papaya pulp and apply it on the face. Leave it for 15-20 minutes. Rinse your face with clean water and pat dry. This is a good acne remedy that work.

28. Egg White

Egg whites are a natural remedy for reducing excess oil from skin and draw out impurities from the pores. Wash your face with lukewarm water. Crack one egg and separate yolk from its white part. Take out the white part in a bowl and mix it firmly until the bubbles are formed. Apply it on the face and cover it with tissue papers. Let it dry for 20 minutes. Then, remove all the tissue papers. Wash your face with water.

REMEMBER

These factors can trigger or aggravate an existing case of acne:

• Hormones. Androgens are hormones that increase in boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptives also can affect sebum production. And low amounts of androgens circulate in the blood of women and can worsen acne.
• Certain medications. Drugs containing corticosteroids, androgens or lithium can worsen acne.
• Diet. Studies indicate that certain dietary factors, including dairy products and carbohydrate-rich foods — such as bread, bagels and chips — may trigger acne. Chocolate has long been suspected of making acne worse. A recent study of 14 men with acne showed that eating chocolate was related to an increase in acne. Further study is needed to examine why this happens or whether acne patients need to follow specific dietary restrictions.
• Stress. Stress can make acne worse.

Home Remedies For Cystic Acne

Sometimes bacteria get trapped inside the pore, too, causing the area to become red and swollen. Cystic acne happens when this infection goes deep into your skin, creating a red, tender bump that's full of pus. It may hurt or itch. If a cyst bursts, the infection can spread, causing more breakouts. Painful breakouts deep in your skin, it could mean you’ve developed something called cystic acne.

You’re most likely to develop cystic acne in your teens or early 20s. But it can strike someone as young as 8 or as old as 50. Your face, chest, back, upper arms, or shoulders can be affected.

Severe cystic acne is more common in men, but women get it, too. Women often have cysts on the lower half of the face.

Causes

No one is sure of the exact cause, but hormones called androgens play a part. When you’re a teenager, androgens increase. This leads to changes in your skin that can result in clogged pores and acne. In women, hormone changes can be brought on by menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome.

If one of your parents had severe cystic acne, you have a greater chance of getting it.

Remedies for Cystic Acne

1. Detoxification

Our body is a heaven for toxins and so we need to remove them to keep our skin looking fresh and healthy. Toxins cause hormonal imbalance in our bodies which results into cystic acne. To remove toxins, you need to get your body ready by changing your diet. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty of water to wash out the toxins and take supplements such as omega-3 which is good for keeping your hormones under control.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibiotic which helps keep the pH level of your skin balanced. Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar with 2 tablespoons of water and place it in the refrigerator. Apply this mix to the face after every wash.

3. Honey Mask

Honey helps in killing and reducing the skin bacteria that cause acne. Apply raw honey on clean face with your fingers and massage for a few minutes. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural antioxidant that helps in keeping the skin clean and free from bacteria. Its acidic nature helps in exfoliation of dead skin cells and unclogs the pores. Apply lemon juice on clean face using a cotton ball, leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning. You can incorporate lemon juice into your daily cleansing routine, however, if it makes your skin dry, you should use it only once or twice in a week.

5. Blue Tansy Oil

This oil is very effective on cystic acne. Mix one drop of blue tansy oil to any essential oil and apply on the affected area only. Keep it for a few minutes and then rinse off with cold water.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is commonly found in every kitchen in India, it’s impossible to make an Indian meal without this spice. It is known for its anti-bacterial properties around the world. Add ½ a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm water and drink it on an empty stomach every day to fade away cystic acne.

7. Egg Whites

Egg whites are known as healing agents. Using your fingers, gently apply the egg white on your face and leave it on for a few minutes. Rinse it off and wash your face with a face wash.

8. Steam

Take a steam bath two times a week or on every alternate day. It will help clear the pores and keep your face free from oil.

9. Toothpaste

The fluoride in toothpaste will help dry the pores and kill the bacteria that cause acne. It is best to use gel toothpaste such as close-up. Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with cold water and pat dry.

10. Aspirin Mask

Crush a few aspirin to make powder, add water to make a thin paste and apply on the affected areas. After 15 minutes, wash your face with warm water and pat dry. While using aspirin, you must keep in mind that aspirin in any form is dangerous, as the body absorbs it very easily. Therefore, use this method as a last resort for prevention of acne.

11. Salty Compress

Salt provides relief from pain caused by inflammation. Mix 1 cup water and ½ teaspoon salt. Soak a small piece of cloth in the liquid and apply on the affected area. Leave the compress on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with cold water.

12. Corn Starch

Make a thick paste by combining corn starch with water. Once you get the perfect uniformity, apply the mixture on your face using your fingers. Let it stay for half an hour and then rinse it off with cold water. Apply this mask at least 3 times a day, for a week and you will notice the difference on your skin.

13. Mango

Mangoes helps open up the pores and by doing so, they make your skin glowing and feel soft. To make a mango mask, take a ripe mango and extract its juices. Add a little water and apply the mask on your face. After 15 to 20 minutes, rinse it off with warm water and feel the difference. Repeat daily, if possible or on alternate days.

14. Potato Mask

Potatoes are rich in vitamins that reduce inflammation and redness. They also pull out all the excess oil from the pores. To make a potato mask, peel a few potatoes and blend them in a blender. Strain the juice and apply it on the face using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 20 minutes or so, and then rinse off with water. It has no side-effects and can, therefore, be used on a daily basis.

15. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in Vitamins K, A and C and are also known to possess antioxidants. Slice a tomato and place the slices on the affected area. You can also make a paste by grinding a few tomatoes, and then apply the paste on your face.

16. Cinnamon

Mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 1 teaspoon of honey and apply the paste on your face, at night before you hit the hay. Wash it off in the morning.

17. Orange and Tangerine Peel

Oranges and tangerines are rich in Vitamin C. Dry the peels of the fruits for a few days, until all the moisture has evaporated, and then grind them into a powder. Mix 1 tablespoon of the powder with honey or water in equal quantity and apply on the face. Leave it for 15 minutes, and then wash your face with warm water.

18. Olive Oil

Olive oil mixed with lemon juice can remove acne from the root. Add 1/8 teaspoon of lemon juice to ¼ teaspoon of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and apply on the face. Let it stay for a few minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.

19. Banana Peel

Banana peel is a good antioxidant that helps boost cell growth. After having a banana (which is good for you, especially if you suffer from constipation), rub the peel on your face in a circular motion. Leave it on, for half an hour and then wash your face.

20. Cold Water

Avoid using hot water to wash your face. Warm water is okay but chilled water is the best for acne prone skin.

21. Chilli Pepper

Dry some chili pepper in sun and grind them to make a powder. Mix 1 teaspoon of chilli powder with 1 teaspoon of water and apply the mixture on your face.

22. Papaya

Many beauty products use papaya extracts, as it is a natural cure for acne prone skin. It helps remove all the dead skin cells and prevents formation of pus. To make a papaya mask, take half a papaya and cut it into cubes. Mash it and apply the pulp directly on your face. After 15 to 20 minutes, rinse off.

23. Sugar Scrub

Sugar acts as an exfoliator and helps open up the pores. Make a scrub at home by mixing 1½ cups each of white and brown sugar, add ½ cup of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of sea salt and one vanilla bean or 10 tablespoons of vanilla extract. Apply the required amount of paste on your face. You can store the rest for later use. It is advisable to use one spoon of scrub every day.

24. Almond Powder

Almond powder is extremely good for removing black heads. Mix almond powder and rosewater to make a paste and apply onto the affected area. Let it sit for 15 minutes, and then wash your face.

25. Strawberries

Strawberries are good for scrubbing as they have a rough texture and a high concentration of salicylic acid. It helps open up the pores. In a bowl, mash 3 strawberries and add 2 drops of honey to this. Mix well and apply on the face. Wash your face after 20 minutes with cold water.

REMEMBER

Don’t touch cysts or pick at these blemishes. You may push the infection deeper and make it spread.

Try to relax. Stress can cause your body to release more hormones, which can make acne worse.

Follow a healthy lifestyle. Get plenty of sleep and exercise. Some research suggests that a low-glycemic diet, which limits sugar, can help symptoms.

Home Remedies For Blemishes

Since the breakouts are few and far between, it’s normal to question why you’ll have perfectly clear skin for weeks and then one day a blemish will form. Is it from stress? Is it from not washing your face? Is it diet related? PMS? The answer is not an easy one but if you still get occasional blemishes, ask yourself these questions…

Do you touch your face a lot?

This may come as a surprise, but subconsciously touching your face all day makes it quickly become the dirtiest part of your body.  While it’s important to wash your skin every night, it’s much better to try to prevent your hands from touching your face unnecessarily. This can add bacteria to the skin adding to acne bacteria and cause more problems.

Skin Tip: Keep your hands occupied. Get any kind of toy or gadget that you can play with in your hands at times when you are most likely to be touching your skin. This will help tremendously. Check out my No Picking! Twisty Toy. This is great and fun to fidget with to keep your hands busy.

Have you been eating more dairy than normal lately?

When you develop cystic breakouts (those hard, painful, underground blemishes that linger for weeks) on the chin, jaw line and neck area, it might be a sign that you’re getting more dairy in your diet than your body can tolerate. Your skin acts as an excretory system to get rid of things that your body is not in agreement with, so when you get too much dairy, it is by nature harder to digest and can come out in the form of cystic blemishes in the lower area of the face.

Skin Tip: The best way to determine if your acne cysts are directly related to your intake of dairy is to completely cut dairy out of your diet for at least three weeks. If you don’t develop any new cysts and you normally would have by now, then this might solve your problem! It doesn’t mean that you cannot eat any dairy at all.  Slowly introduce dairy back into your diet, and the point you start breaking out again is your body’s tolerance level.  Our Anti-Cyst Treatment works amazingly well as a spot treatment for healing cystic acne fast. (Read: Get Control Of Cystic Acne—Before It Scars Your Skin)

Have you been under tremendous stress?

Aside from my experience confirming this is true, the Stanford University School of Medicine conducted one such study in 2002. It was a small study that involved students suffering from acne. The college professors involved in the study conclusively proved that the exam stress worsened acne in these students. According to researchers, their findings indicated “Subjects who had the greatest increases in stress during examination periods also had the greatest exacerbation in acne severity”. Stress not only affects acne flare-up.  In general, it worsens the overall skin condition. It induces the adrenal glands into overproduction of cortisol, a steroid, which in turn makes sebaceous glands produce more oil and make skin extra oily. Thus the reason why in stressful periods, people experiencing an increase in acne get more inflamed, puss-filled papules than simple whiteheads or blackheads.

Skin Tip: The easiest solution to reducing stress is to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night. (Read: 10 Nighttime Skin Care Tips)

Do you not wash your skin at night?

Oil on the skin makes for a breeding ground of bacteria, and bacteria will cause blemishes. Sleeping with not only your makeup on, but also the addition of oil, dirt and debris that has built up on the skin during the day, can absolutely trigger new blemishes.

Skin Tip: The #1 reason why someone won’t wash his or her face at night is out of exhaustion. I certainly understand the discipline and effort it requires to perform your nighttime skin care routine, especially when you’re exhausted. But, you really must do it. It’s that simple.

Have you started using new skin care products?

When your skin is introduced to new products, sometimes you might get some initial blemish purging, especially if the products are giving your skin more exfoliation than normal. If it continues on more than two weeks, then they may not be a good fit for your skin.

Skin Tip: When introducing new products to your skin, it’s always recommended to use one product for 3-4 days before adding in a second one. If your skin is reacting negatively, you’ll be able to determine which product you should discontinue.  Get products recommended for your skin type by choosing one of our nine skin types.

Are you about to start your menstrual cycle?

Many women can experience a surge of blemishes at the start of their monthly cycle. This is completely normal, but can be very frustrating.

Are you peri-menopausal or going through menopause?

Hormones are chemical messengers, created by our bodies to regulate everything from metabolism to cell growth to reproductive cycles and mood. When they fluctuate, they can trigger weight gain, depression, sleeplessness and fatigue in addition to adult acne and breakouts. A common sign for hormonal imbalances is when your monthly cycle is inconsistent and sporadic, or has recently stopped.

Have you flown on a plane recently in the last few days or week? I can attest to this one. Flying on an airplane absolutely throws my skin out of whack. The cabins of airplanes have extremely low humidity, which cause the skin to get extremely dehydrated (lack of water). The dry air looks for moisture where it can get it and that means robbing it right from your skin! The dehydrated cells cause a buildup, which can trap oil underneath the skin resulting in post-flight breakouts.

Remedies for Blemishes

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice works as an excellent skin-lightening home remedy to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation due to its bleaching effect. Its high citric acid content exfoliates the skin, removes excess oil and kills acne-causing bacteria. It also minimizes the appearance of large pores and smoothes the skin.

Simply apply fresh lemon juice on your skin and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off. Do this daily for a month or so.

Alternatively, combine one-quarter teaspoon each of lemon juice and organic honey. Rub it on your skin and wash it off after 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat a few times a week for one month or until you see improvement.

You can also mix together equal parts of lemon juice and tomato juice. For extra exfoliation, add one tablespoon of oatmeal (optional). Apply the mixture on the affected area. Leave it on for about 15 minutes, and then rinse it off. Do this daily, or three or four times a week for about a month or until you get encouraging results.

2. Tomato Juice

Being rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, tomato juice is excellent for creating glowing and blemish-free skin. Plus, it helps shrink large pores and cure acne due to its astringent properties. Tomatoes are also good for reducing suntan due to their high lycopene content.

Massage your skin with tomato pulp. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, and then rinse it off with cool water. Follow this simple routine daily for several weeks or until you get the desired results.

To enjoy clear and healthy skin, also include fresh tomatoes in your daily diet.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is rich in alpha hydroxy acids and hence lightens dark spots and blemishes.

In addition, it helps balance the skin’s pH levels, reduces excess oils and opens clogged pores.

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar also fights acne breakouts.

Mix one part organic apple cider vinegar and three parts water. If it seems too strong, you can increase the amount of water.

Dip a cotton ball in this solution and dab it on the affected area.

Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, and then wash it off.

Use two or three times a day until the blemish fades away.

4. Potato

Potato juice contains starch that helps reduce pigmentation. It also diminishes dark circles under eyes.

Peel and grate one small potato. Extract the juice using a fine sieve or cheesecloth.

Soak a cotton ball in the juice and apply it on your skin. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off.

Do this daily for one month or until you are satisfied with the results.

5. Fuller’s Earth

Fuller’s earth, also known as multani mitti, is great for exfoliating your skin to remove dead skin cells and get rid of blemishes. It also absorbs excess oil and has a skin-lightening effect.

Add sufficient rose water, green tea, cucumber juice, lemon juice or just plain water to two tablespoons of fuller’s earth to make a smooth paste. Apply it on your skin, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it off.

You can also mix one teaspoon each of tomato juice and sandalwood powder in two teaspoons of fuller’s earth to make a smooth paste. Spread it evenly on your skin, and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing it off. Use either of these remedies once or twice a week until you get the desired results.

6. Aloe Vera

The succulent aloe vera gel contains polysaccharides that stimulate the growth of new skin cells and help heal scars and blemishes. Also, it has anti-inflammatory properties that benefit in natural acne treatment.

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf and apply it on your skin. Leave it on until it dries completely before washing it off. Repeat daily for about a month or more. You can also create a mixture of two tablespoons of aloe vera gel and one teaspoon each of lemon juice and sugar. Gently rub it on your skin, let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse it off. Do this two or three times a week until you get rid of the blemishes.

7. Strawberries

Strawberries are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that help maintain clear skin. Being rich in vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and ellagic acid, it exfoliates dead skin, fights acne and fades scars.

Mash two or three strawberries with a fork.

Mix them with two teaspoons each of plain yogurt and organic honey.

Gently rub it on your face and neck and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.

Then wipe it off with a warm washcloth. This will open the clogged pores.

Do this at least twice a week for several weeks.

8. Orange Peel

Orange peel works as a natural bleach to lighten your skin and clear acne scars and blemishes. It also helps reduce suntan. Moreover, being rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it tones your skin and leaves a youthful glow.

REMEMBER

Follow all the Tips to Avoid skin Blemishes.

Home Remedies For Epidermoid Cyst

Epidermoid (ep-ih-DUR-moid) cysts are noncancerous small bumps beneath the skin. Epidermoid cysts can appear anywhere on the skin, but are most common on the face, neck and trunk.

Slow growing and often painless, epidermoid cysts rarely cause problems or need treatment. But you may choose to have a cyst removed by a doctor if its appearance bothers you or if it's painful, ruptured or infected.

Many people refer to epidermoid cysts as epidermoid cyst s, but they're different. True Epidermoid cyst s are less common. They arise from the glands that secrete oily matter that lubricates hair and skin (sebaceous glands).

Symptoms

Epidermoid cyst signs and symptoms include:

• A small, round bump under the skin, usually on the face, trunk or neck
• A tiny blackhead plugging the central opening of the cyst
• A thick, yellow, foul-smelling material that sometimes drains from the cyst
• Redness, swelling and tenderness in the area, if inflamed or infected

Causes

The surface of your skin (epidermis) is made up of a thin, protective layer of cells that your body continuously sheds. Most Epidermoid cysts form when these cells move deeper into your skin and multiply rather than slough off.

The epidermal cells form the walls of the cyst and then secrete the protein keratin into the interior. The keratin is the thick, yellow substance that sometimes drains from the cyst. This abnormal growth of cells may be due to a damaged hair follicle or oil gland in your skin.

Many people refer to epidermoid cysts as epidermoid cyst s, but they're different. True Epidermoid cyst s are less common. They arise from the glands that secrete oily matter that lubricates hair and skin (sebaceous glands).

Remedies for Epidermoid cyst

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the beneficial oils with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, which are helpful in healing various health problems, such as acne, headache, cough, cold, toenail fungus, warts, etc. It is useful for epidermoid cyst also. For the treatment of epidermoid cyst, apply some tea tree oil directly on it. It will work as a protecting layer for the cyst and will fight against infecting bacteria. It will also reduce the reoccurrence of epidermoid cyst.

You can use diluted tea tree oil also. For this, mix tea tree oil and carrier oil or water in 1:9 ratio. Apply it directly on the cyst, thrice a day.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is also one of the natural remedies for epidermoid cyst. It possesses pain-relieving and healing properties. You are required to apply aloe Vera gel directly on epidermoid cyst. A cool feeling will be experienced when aloe Vera gel is applied on irritating cyst.

For removing the impurities from body, drink aloe Vera juice on a regular basis.

3. Castor Oil

Castor oil, when used for epidermoid cyst s, shows effective results. It not only heals the inflamed cyst, but also reduces itching. All you are required to do is to soak a piece of clean cloth in castor oil and place it directly on the infected cyst. Now, place a hot water bag on the cloth placed on cyst and compress for half an hour. The heat of water and castor oil will help in curing cyst easily by shrinking it. When epidermoid cyst appears on the face or back, you can try this method.

Note- It should not be consumed internally.

4. Witch Hazel

The astringent properties of witch hazel help in healing epidermoid cyst easily. The barks and leaves of witch hazel are rich in tannins, which remove extra oils from skin and help to tighten pores. For the treatment of epidermoid cyst, you have to apply a very little quantity of witch hazel gel or cream on the infecting cyst. Let it soak into your skin. Within a couple of days, the size of the cyst will get reduced.

5. Lugol’s Iodine

Lugol’s iodine, commonly available at various grocery stores, has been proven to be an effective cure for epidermoid cyst Apply this solution on the infected area with the help of a cotton bud. For best results, apply this solution twice or thrice a day.

Note- Keep your clothes away from this solution as they can easily get stained.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a useful remedy for treating infected epidermoid cyst completely at home. To remove pus from the inflamed cyst, apply some natural vinegar on cyst and cover it with a piece of cloth or bandage. After 3 or 4 days, remove the bandage. A hard layer will develop on cyst. As you remove the hard layer, pus oozes out. Clean the pus and apply a new bandage on it. After 2-3 days, remove the bandage to experience a new skin

7. Black Blood Root Drawing Salve

Black blood root salve is a 100% natural product, which pulls toxins to the surface of the skin. It has no side-effects. Apply some drawing salve on the affected region and cover it with a clean bandage. After two days, remove the bandage. The cyst will get disappear completely.

8. Hot Compress

Hot compress is useful for several health issues, including epidermoid cyst. If you want to cure epidermoid cyst, practice hot compress method. Hot compression facilitates draining out pus or thick liquid from cyst.

Note- Be sure that you apply a medium hot compress on cyst. Too much heat will generate more infecting bacteria.

9. Potassium Iodide

One of the simple ways to treat epidermoid cyst is to use potassium iodide on it. It is a simple and infection-free remedy. Apply some potassium iodide on epidermoid cyst, 2-3 times a day. It will gradually cure the cysts.

10. Dandelion and Viola

Dandelion and viola help in fighting against the bacteria causing cysts. It helps in removing toxins from the body. For treating epidermoid cyst, take one bag of dandelion and viola herbs mix. Boil it in four cups of water. After boiling, simmer it for 45 minutes. Drink this solution, multiple times a day. For best results, drink the herbal solution for 8-10 days.

You can also wash infected cyst by this herbal solution.

11. Clay Tablet

Epidermoid cyst, acne, stomach ache, etc. are some of the problems that can arise due to improper digestion. To clear up the impurities from the digestive system, one should take clay tablets. You can experience a positive result after having clay tablets. After a few days, the cyst shrinks and disappears easily, without any infection.

12. Bee Pollen

Bee pollen acts as a natural blood purifier and is effective against skin problems, like acne, epidermoid cyst s, etc. For healing cysts, you are required to consume bee pollen, which consists of bee propolis, pollen, and royal jelly.

You can also consume bee pollen tablets or pills, which shrink the cysts and cure them easily.

13. Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is actually 99% pure silver. Colloidal silver is an antibiotic herb, which reduces inflammation. It helps in stimulating lymphatic flow and stop infection. Colloidal silver is also known for improving the immune system and is effective for healing epidermoid cyst.

14. Anti-Fungal Creams

Anti-fungal creams also work great on severe and painful cysts. To cure epidermoid cyst s, apply some anti-fungal cream directly on the infected area and cover it with a clean piece of cloth or bandage, if necessary. It helps in reducing inflammation and itching.

15. Turmeric

Turmeric is a good herbal remedy for curing cysts. It is an alternative method to treat cyst. For improving digestion and purifying blood, you are required to intake half teaspoon of turmeric powder in one cup of warm milk. For best results, consume turmeric added milk for 10 days.

16. Epsom Salt

To draw out infection, Epsom salt is a very effective remedy. To cure epidermoid cyst s, you have to add some Epsom salt in bathing water. Now, take a bath with this water.  It will fight against the infecting bacteria, thereby treating epidermoid cyst.

17. Honey

Honey is a topical wound dresser. For the treatment of epidermoid cyst, you need to prepare a poultice. Put wheatgrass or plantain in a blender and blend it. Add some honey in the paste and mix it well. Now, apply it directly on the cyst and cover it with a clean cloth. Leave it overnight. You will surely notice positive results.

REMEMBER

Nearly anyone can develop one or more epidermoid cysts, but these factors make you more susceptible:

• Being past puberty
• Having a history of acne
• Having certain rare genetic disorders
• Injuring the skin

REMEDIES FOR BLACKHEADS

Blackheads are a combination of oils, sebum and cellular fragments that produce firm to hard plugs within hair follicles. Blackheads are open to the skin's surface and become darkened at the surface by exposure to oxygen (oxidation). They are called open comedones. When bacteria is added to these comedones, the condition can lead to acne. Blackheads are promoted by excessive cellular exfoliation, which quickly clog or block the follicles. Some skin specialists believe individuals with frequent and multiple comedones (blackheads and/or whiteheads) produce sebum that is drier than normal and conducive to forming firm plugs. Sebum contributes to skin oils and people with dry sebum may have dry skin, but people with oily skin can also produce dry sebum which promotes plugs

Symptom of blackheads is tiny black bumps on the skin, mostly on the nose and forehead.  Unlike pimples, blackheads are not painful.

Remedies for Removing Blackheads

Here are some effective home remedies to get blackheads out. Take a look.

• Oatmeal Scrub

Mix sufficient quantity of oatmeal into 1 teaspoon of honey and juice of 4 tomatoes. Gently scrub this paste on your skin. Rinse it off after 10 minutes. Repeat the process every other day until the blackheads are totally removed.

• Green Tea

Make a paste of one teaspoon of dried green tea leaves in a little water. Now, rub it on your skin. Green tea removes oil from the skin as well as helps in unclogging the pores.

• Lemon

Lemon juice is one of the best home remedy for blackheads as it effectively removes oil from the skin while also removing facial blackheads and acne. Make a scrub by mixing some salt, lime juice, honey and yoghurt. Gently rub this mixture on the skin. It will naturally remove blackheads by exfoliating your skin.

• Witch Hazel

Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it on the blackhead affected area. It removes excess oil from the skin and is an effective remedy to get rid of blackheads on nose.

• Baking Soda

Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda in mineral water to make a paste. Gently massage this paste on the affected skin. Let it dry for some time, and then, wash it with lukewarm water. Repeat it for one or two times every week until the blackheads totally subsides. It is the good home remedy to get rid of blackheads fast.

• Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is really helpful in removing blackheads on the face. Mix a teaspoon of Epsom salt with few drops of iodine in hot water. Let it dissolve completely. Then, allow it to cool for some time.  Now, apply it on the affected skin with a cotton ball. After it dries well, remove gently.

• Fenugreek

Crush some fenugreek leaves and add water to it to prepare a thick paste. Now, apply it on the blackheads affected area, and let it dry for around 10 minutes. Wash it off with warm water. Repeat the remedy every day till the blackheads are totally gone.

• Cinnamon

Make a thick paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in some honey. Apply this mixture and let it be on your skin overnight. Wash it with normal water, the next morning. Repeat it daily for a continuous period of 10 days.

• Toothpaste

Toothpaste works well to clear blackheads.  You just need to apply a thin layer of toothpaste on the blackheads affected skin. Rub with a toothbrush, gently. You might feel a sense of irritation as you apply it on your skin, but it is normal. You need to apply it every alternate day in order to completely remove the blackheads on your skin.

• Potatoes

Grate a raw potato and rub it over the affected skin.  After 15 minutes, wash it thoroughly. Repeat the process on the daily basis to see the effects.

• Rice

Soak some rice in milk for 4-5 hours, and then, grind them to make a paste. Apply it on your skin as a scrub.

• Tomatoes

Mash a peeled tomato, and apply it on your skin. Leave it for a night. Wash your skin with warm water, the next morning. Tomatoes have antiseptic properties, which dry up the blackheads.

• Cornmeal

Mix some powdered cornmeal in your daily facial cleanser. Take steam before applying it so that it opens the pores. Now, gently rub it in a circular motion. Wash it with cold water after some time.

• Honey

Honey helps in tightening the pores while giving the skin a natural glow. Apply honey on your face and rinse it after 10 minutes.

• Coriander

Make a paste of fresh coriander leaves and turmeric powder in water. Apply this paste as a mask on the area, affected with blackheads.

• Turmeric

Take 2 tbsp of mint juice. Add some turmeric powder to it. Mix well and employ on the affected area. After it gets dried, rinse off with lukewarm water.

Other option is to mix turmeric powder, red sandalwood and milk. Apply it and wash off with water after 10 minutes.

• Sugar

Take a tbsp of sugar. Add a few drops of lemon juice to it. Rub it in a circular motion on your cheeks, nose and face. This remedy removes dead cells, giving you a glowing skin.

• Gram Flour (Besan)

Prepare a scrub by mixing besan and crushed almonds. Apply it. It is an effective natural remedy for curing blackheads on nose.

• Orange Peel

Grind orange peels to form its powder. To it, add water and mix well. Use the paste to scrub the affected area. It is a great way to remove blackheads at home.

• Aloe Vera

Use aloe vera juice on your nose, cheeks, chin and face. The soothing properties of aloe vera will heal the blackheads naturally.

• Tea Tree Oil

The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil make it an effective remedy for alleviating blackheads.

• Warm Compress

Soak a clean cloth or towel in warm water. Place it on the blackheads for 12-15 minutes. It will open the unclogged pores, thereby clearing blackheads.

• Steam

Boil some water in a vessel. Now, cover your head with a towel. Sit in such a way that your face is directed towards the vessel. Else, take a steam bath. It will take out dirt from the pores, making your skin blackheads-free.

• Rose Water

Use rose water to cleanse your skin. Daily use of rose water prevents blackheads from appearing.

• Egg

Whip an egg white. Add a teaspoon of honey in it. Apply it on your facial blackheads. Rinse off after 25-30 minutes. It will give you clear and radiant skin.

Avoid Blackheads by

• Wash your face two times a day with a gentle oil-control cleanser or an acne-cleanser.
• Avoid smoking and alcoholic drinks.
• Use oil-free make-up, foundation, lotion and facial cleanser.
• Remove make-up before going to bed.
• Decrease intake of oily foods, such as chocolates, fried foods, and junk food.
• Include beta-carotene containing food in your diet.
• Don’t squeeze blackheads as it may cause scars.

REMEDIES TO USE FOR FACE CLEANSING

1. Clay

Clay draws toxins from the skin and can calm inflammations. You cannot only use it as a face mask, but also as a daily face wash.

There are different types of clay: red, green or white clay, ghassoul (also called rhassoul) or healing earth. You can mix clay with water or other funny stuff like aloe Vera gel, organic floral waters, organic full fat yogurt, kefir or buttermilk. It‘s simple, just like cooking. Get creative!

However, please remember not to add too many different ingredients all at once! Try only one thing at a time to find out how your skin reacts to it. Apply the mixture to your face, leave it on for just a few minutes, then rinse. Don‘t let it dry!!!

This cleansing method works especially well for oily or combination skins, however depending on which color of clay you use, all skin types can benefit.

Oily skin:

Ghassoul / rhassoul (Moroccan lava clay), green clay, bentonite clay, kaolin clay or Fuller’s

Earth

Sensitive skin:

White clay, red clay

Dry skin:

Red clay

Dull, tired, or devitalized skin:

Pink clay

If your skin tends to be dry, add a few drops of oil. To enhance antibacterial properties, try to add a drop of lavender, tee tree or laurel oil, a teaspoon of manuka honey or a splash of apple cider vinegar.

You can use clay as a mask for body and hair as well! Ghassoul is a fab hair wash alternative: applied as a mask, it strips the hair of chemical buildup and other residues, absorbs oiliness almost like a sponge, makes your hair shine and adds volume! Don‘t massage it too much into your hair to avoid split ends.

Don‘t try clay if you are allergic to nickel. Clay may contain traces of it.

2. Orris Root Powder

Orris root = Iris germanica, Iris florentina, Iris pallida

Orris root powder is really moisturizing, very gentle on the skin and smells just like violets! Mix with water (or yogurt, aloe vera, floral waters,) and apply in the same way as the clay mixtures.

You can use it as a tooth powder as well! It might be a good alternative for those, who struggle with a severe intolerance or allergy to fluoride, SLS or mint oil (in the past, it has indeed been used as a toothpaste).

Depending on where you live, orris root powder might be difficult to find. You can try to browse online shops selling herbs or ask in a pharmacy for it.

3. Chickpea Flour

If you have very oily skin, chickpea flour might be good for you! Mix with water, floral waters, yoghurt, and apply in the same way as clay or orris root powder.

You can buy it in most Asian or health food stores!

4. Organic Full-Fat Yogurt, Curd, Kefir or Buttermilk

Yogurt, curd, kefir and buttermilk are the most natural surfactant-free alternatives to cleansing milk you can probably ever get your hands on! It‘s not just emulsified fat and water: Lactic acid harmonizes with your skin’s acidity, dissolves lipids and helps to remove dead skin cells.

If possible, use organic (non-pasteurized) milk products. Massage gently into your skin, avoid the eye area and leave on for a few minutes. Then rinse.

As a general rule of thumb, yoghurt and curd are a little gentler to the skin than kefir and buttermilk. Especially buttermilk might be too strong for very sensitive skin types due to its high amount of lactic acid. For the same reason, it‘s a great exfoliator!

5. Cotton Pad and Oil

Apply just a few drops of oil (jojoba, olive, argan, almond, apricot kernel, evening primrose …) on a moistened cotton pad and gently wipe across your face without rubbing. Splash with water afterwards.

6. Mashed Fruit or Vegetables as a Cleanser or Face Mask

This is no recipe idea! Fact is that papaya pulp, mashed avocados, cucumbers, mangos or bananas are fantastic skin cleansers. Fresh fruit contains enzymes which will remove dead skin cells, clear pores and resolve excess oil. I think most recipes below are too complicated to become an everyday solution, but you can still consider them as a mask or treatment every once in a while! Be careful though, not every skin type can deal with fruit acid. Make a patch test first!

A few ideas:

Oily skin / Combination skin:

• Cucumber juice works extremely well as a skin cleanser. Due to its cooling effect it helps to soothe and soften the skin. Apply some cucumber juice mixed with raw organic milk onto your face. Use a cotton pad!
• Papaya fruit is a rich source of nutrients such as carotenoids, vitamin C, B vitamins, enzymes and minerals. Papaya pulp also contains a variety of phytochemicals, including polyphenols: Massage your face very gently with a papaya slice or mix papaya pulp with raw organic honey or rose water and apply it as a face mask for 15-20 minutes.
• Lemon juice is a natural exfoliant, skin brightener and anti-infective, whereas the starch from (sweet) potatoes will absorb excess oil: Boil some sweet (or white) potatoes, mash them, let them cool down and add a few drops of lemon into the mixture. Squeeze a real lemon! Do not use any ready-bought lemon juice gunk! Apply, leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse off with water.
• Mix some lemon juice (from a real lemon) with raw organic (or manuka) honey and cinnamon. For some, it works extremely well to fade hyper-pigmentation marks. Leave on for half an hour, then rinse.
• Bananas are rich in vitamin A, B and E and a good source of iron, magnesium and potassium. A fresh mashed banana facial can be great for your skin!
• Mangos can have a nice effect on your skin as well. Mangos are rich in vitamin-A and rich in antioxidants. Use in the same way as papaya!

Dry skin:

• Packed with healthy fats and phytonutrients, avocados and olives offer remarkable benefits for dry skin: Mix avocado pulp with olive oil to make a paste. Rinse off after 20 minutes.

7. The Oil-Cleansing-Method

I‘m not a big fan of the oil-cleansing-method. For me it wasn’t great, to say the least. The first time I tried this method, I ended up with cystic acne. It was too harsh on my skin because of rubbing too much, because of using the wrong or too much oil and because of the very hot water. That‘s why I don’t think it‘s suitable for sensitive or inflamed acne skin, so please be careful!

If, after all, you are still longing to try it, grab your favorite oil and apply some of it on your dry face in a circular motion. Use your fingertips. To avoid irritation, massage your skin in the gentlest way possible – or not at all, especially in the most inflamed areas.

Massaging with oil can be very stressful for your skin and might spread acne bacteria all over your face. Just let the oil soak for about 20-30 minutes. Excess sebum will be removed anyhow and even some impurities might pop out.

You don‘t even have to use olive and castor oil as described in most online articles. Castor oil might remove too much natural sebum from your skin, so your skin might produce even more sebum to protect itself. Try jojoba, hemp or grape seed oil, if you have oily skin.

For dry skin, macadamia, canola or olive oil should work fine. Then, instead of using a very hot wet cloth to remove the excess oil, use a warm one pressing it gently on your face without rubbing. Repeat a few times. Don‘t use microfiber cloths, but only soft muslin or cotton cloths.

8. Baking Soda

Dilute a pinch of baking soda in A LOT OF water and splash your face with it. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterwards.

Don‘t use too much baking soda and never let the baking-soda-water dry on your skin! The granules are kind of abrasive when dry

By the way, the naturally occurring chemical compound sodium bicarbonate (baking soda = NaHCO3 = sodium, hydrogen, carbon and oxygen) can clean anything from your face to your pans and pots to your whole household. Give it a try!

9. Raw Organic Honey

Raw organic honey is an extremely mild cleanser with antibacterial and moisturizing benefits! Simply apply, leave on for a few minutes up to half an hour, rinse. Be careful with your hair!

10. Self-Made All-in-One Cleansing Milk, Moisturizer and Body Lotion

Making your own natural skin care is a fabulous way to take care of yourself, save money and have fun all at the same time. Moreover, you can avoid harmful chemicals and other substances your skin might be reacting to and still have the advantages of a creamy and moisturizing product!

All you need is a good oil, some water and a little bit of liquid lecithin. Lecithin is an emulsifier which is naturally occurring in egg yolks and oils (avocado oil contains a lot of it) and is really kind to the skin.

Basic recipe:

• 0.7 oz (20 ml) organic floral water (use it as it is!) or aloe vera gel (use it as it is!) or mineral water (boiled and cooled down) or distilled water (if you find boiling water is too much work!)
• ca. 1 scoop liquid lecithin (you don‘t have to be too precise with this)
• 0.35 oz (10 ml) cold-pressed organic oil (jojoba, grape seed, apricot kernel … ) or an oil mix

You can vary the amount of oil according to your skin type: 20% – 40% work quite well.

Sterilize a 1oz (30ml) glass bottle and any other type of equipment you might need (measuring utensils, spoons etc.). If you don‘t want to sterilize them with alcohol, boil them in a pot of water for at least half an hour and let them dry properly.

Pour the ingredients into the bottle, put on the lid, shake, and it‘s done! If the oil and water components should separate after a while, just shake the flask all over again to re-mix. If that does not help, add another few drops of lecithin. You can also add a drop of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender, manuka, chamomile, neroli, jasmine and so on.

Prepare only very small amounts, store in the fridge and use within two weeks (otherwise you‘ll have to use alcohol or preservatives).

If you suffer from very dry patches you could try to add a pinch/drop of ectoin, allantoin, d- panthenol or lactic acid (online-shop/pharmacy).

Natural Toners

Many people take the 3 steps of cleansing, toning and moisturizing as a rule to be set in stone. In my opinion the benefits of “toning“ as it is generally – and commercially – understood are questionable, but here are some very gentle alternatives for those who like to have another refreshing kick right after cleansing!

11. Water

Yes, water! I‘m not kidding! Chlorine or limescale are a common cause of itchy, red, dry and flaky skin. So if your tap water happens to be very limy, try to use mineral, filtered (or at least boiled) water to splash your face. This might make a huge difference for some people!

And, of course, water is a very natural and genuine toner! Guaranteed without perfume, essential oils and other unnecessary accessories.

12. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is an excellent choice, if you want to tone and hydrate your skin at the same time. Add one or two drops of oil to it to keep the moisture inside your skin!

Aloe vera speeds the healing process and acts as an anti-inflammatory to calm down your skin. It is also a must have home first aid remedy: apply to burns, slow healing wounds, grazes, bites and stings!

However, aloe vera products available in health food stores are not always equal in quality.

Be sure that the aloe vera gel you purchase is organic and certified by the International Aloe Science Council (IASC). This label guarantees that your aloe vera gel is naturally rich in active polysaccharides and free from all kinds of skin-irritating stuff like pesticides and so on.

Nevertheless, make a patch test first, if you have never tried aloe vera before! Some people are allergic to it.

13. Organic Herbal Distillates / Floral Waters

Organic floral waters, also called hydrosols, are very kind on the skin (at least if you are not allergic to a specific flower or plant) and help to regenerate the skin‘s natural acid mantle after cleansing. There are lots of different choices: rose water, hamamelis water, orange blossom water, lavender water, chamomile water, thyme water, sandalwood water …

Floral waters are traditionally used in Ayurveda for toning the skin. Produced at high temperatures, they are somewhat acidic (with a pH between 5-6) and tend to inhibit bacterial growth. They are not however sterile, but a fresh product, just like food, and should be kept refrigerated.

Always buy floral waters in a spray bottle (because of the same reason). Spray liberally over face and body after cleansing as a toner or throughout the day to refresh and hydrate your skin.

However, be careful to choose the right type of floral water! Many hydrosols on the market are just water with a small amount of essential oils added and are some kind of a cheat! Make sure to choose a floral water made from a distillation as this extraction method retains the properties of the plant.

Have a look at the Latin (or INCI) name. True floral waters will be listed as one ingredient, e.g. ‘rosa damascena distillate‘or ‘rosa damascena water‘for example (rose water). Water and essential oil blends are listed as two separate ingredients (e.g. aqua, rosa damascena oil). Never use floral waters containing alcohol, as they will dry out your skin.

14. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant with antibacterial properties. However, raw, natural, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar has some kind of “sediment,” called the “mother”, in it.

Don’t be scared – that strange substance is good stuff and contains all the skin benefits! Go for it!

Apple cider vinegar should always be diluted with some water so that it is much gentler on the skin! You can use it straight as a spot treatment though. To use it as a toner, mix one part apple cider vinegar with 8-10 parts (mineral) water and apply it on a cotton pad.