Acne is an extremely common skin irritation that affects men and women of all ages, though primarily in the teens and early 20's. Acne is often a consequence of a hormonal imbalance. In women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as a result of the overproduction of androgens like testosterone, acne may appear on the face, chest, or back. Blackheads are formed when oil and dead skin become trapped in the pores; if they become infected the result is acne.
Read on to discover eight great natural remedies for hormonal acne.
8 Natural Remedies for Hormonal Acne
If you are suffering from acne, give these natural remedies a try before resorting to yet another pricey prescription.
Eat plenty of vitamin C
Foods rich in this vital nutrient include blackcurrants, broccoli, oranges, strawberries, and sweet potato. Vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen which keeps your skin elastic; it also strengthens the capillaries that feed the skin.
Essential fatty acids are essential!
Essential fatty acids help regulate healthy cell function and have anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an essential component in treating hormonal acne. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oily fish and flax seed, while sunflower oil and corn oils are common sources of omega-6.
Dried apricots for improved skin tone
They taste great in cold or hot cereal or can be eaten straight from the bag.
Zinc foods
If you like that soft, supple skin look, try eating wheat germ, liver, oysters, pumpkin seeds, and sardines to help repair skin.
Try apple cider vinegar, topically
If your skin's pH level has been upset, a little vinegar on a cotton ball gently blotted on the face and left to dry may help to restore your natural complexion.
Tea tree oil
Also known as melaleuca oil, this is an essential oil that is used as a spot treatment on blemishes. It is a drying agent.
Aloe vera
Not just for sunburns, aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory agents, immune-boosting properties and can reduce the appearance of scars related to acne.
Drink water
Water is important to not only your overall wellness, but to the youthfulness of your skin. Water perpetuates the production of collagen which protects the skin's elasticity.
More Information
Consult your doctor about persistent acne. As you may have noticed, what you put into your body has a tremendous affect on acne. Some people do think that the hormones in commercially raised meat may have an effect on skin health, but vegetarianism isn't necessarily the answer.
Other lifestyle choices can alleviate or exacerbate acne, too. Exercise is vital to the regulation of hormones. However, some cases are so stubborn that medication and antibiotics may be required to clear skin. It is worth noting that prescriptions work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle. For more information on dealing with hormone imbalance, follow this link.