Fluctuating hormones can cause acne during the teen years.
Acne generally affects the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back and occurs mainly in teenagers, pregnant women and women during their menstrual cycle. According to the Mayo Clinic, hormones play a dominant role in the development of the condition, as well as bacteria, heredity and certain medications. For people suffering from mild to moderate acne, there are many home remedies that may work to safely heal your skin.
Instructions
1. Burdock root is a safe herb to take to reduce acne.
Take burdock root to balance hormones and reduce inflammation. Burdock root naturally balances hormones and is known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Burdock root is also used as a purifying herb to cleanse the liver and improve digestion. The recommended dose of burdock root in capsule form is 300 to 500 milligrams, 2 to 3 times per day. Burdock root is safe to take but can cause urinary tract infections, if taken in large doses for long periods of time.
2. Vitex is effective for balancing hormones to treat acne in both men and women.
Try vitex to reduce the occurrence of acne. Vitex, also known as chasteberry, does not contain hormones, yet does help to balance hormones that cause acne. Although vitex is also effective in regulating menstrual cycles and reducing the outbreak of acne in women, it has been found effective for treating acne in boys, too. Vitex is generally safe with side effects being digestive upset, headaches and nausea. The recommended dose is 80 to 240 milligrams per day in capsule form.
3. Take zinc supplements. Zinc is effective in wound healing and reducing inflammation, as well as balancing hormones. In fact, two studies, one in 1977 and one in 1979, found zinc to be as effective at treating acne as the antibiotic tetracycline. Mark Stengler, ND, author of "The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies" recommends taking 30 milligrams, three times a day for two weeks and then cutting back to 50 milligrams per day. Always take zinc with food to avoid stomach upset.
4. Taking vitamin A may help to heal acne and keep skin clear.
Increase vitamin A in your diet. Vitamin A is important for a healthy immune system and it is packed with antioxidants. When taken in high doses, vitamin A may clear up acne. In fact, the most common prescription acne drug, Accutane, is a synthetic version of vitamin A. The recommended dose for ages 12 and up is 4,000 to 5,000 International Units (IUs). Vitamin A can be toxic in high doses, so if higher dosing is necessary, it is best to do so under the care of a doctor.
5. Using tea tree oil helps to dry out acne, so it can heal faster.
Use tea tree oil on skin to reduce bacteria and inflammation. One study published in the 1990 issue of the "Medical Journal of Australia" found solutions of 5 percent tea tree oil was as effective as 5 percent of benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. Dab a little tree tea oil on breakouts before bedtime.
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