What are pimples?
The skin has a lot of oil-producing glands called sebaceous glands. Hormones called “Androgens” stimulate the production of oil from these glands. When excess oil is secreted, the pores which are present all over the skin surface get expanded and their walls get thickened. The oil (or Sebum) gets collected in these pores, clogging them. This oil eventually hardens to form a plug. If the pores are open, the tip of the oil oxidized and turns black in color- which is called a Blackhead. If the pores are closed, the oil does not get exposed to air and is called a Whitehead. If this clogged pore gets infected by bacteria, the bacterial enzymes break down the oil into free fatty acids. When this happens, the skin gets inflamed, resulting in a Pimple.
What are the predisposing factors leading to pimples?
– Menstrual cycle
– Prescription medicines like steroids, birth control pills etc.
– Obesity
– Stress
– Adolescence
– Clogged pores due to make-up, lotions etc.
– Poor dietary habits
The above list of factors also leads to worsening of pimples and acne, and sometimes to severe pain and itching in the area.
Pimples make the texture of the skin coarse and dull. In order to achieve smooth, youthful glowing skin, proper dietary and sanitary habits must be followed.
Here’s a list of 5 Natural Remedies to help you get rid of pimples and achieve beautiful, glowing skin:
1. Dietary Changes:
A diet based on whole, organic and unprocessed foods will definitely help people with skin conditions like pimples and acne.
Try consuming at least 5 portions of vegetables and 1 portion of fruits in a day. Food items that contain Omega-3 fatty acids like flax seeds, sardines etc. must be preferred over refined sugar. Also, avoid food containing trans fats such as dairy products, margarine, hydrogenated vegetable oils etc. Chocolates, caffeine, shellfish, iodized salts, carbonated drinks etc. aggravate skin conditions.
A regular bowel movement is a must for a clean body as well as clean skin. Increase fibre intake (preferably whole grains) and keep your body hydrated by consuming at least 8 glasses of water in a day.
2. Body Work:
Massage is recommended for peoples who have skin problems. Not only do massages reduce the stress levels of an individual, but they also improve the blood circulation in the body and lymphatic drainage. This helps to speed up the healing process of the body.
Moreover, performing physical exercises leads to profuse sweating. Sweating also improves circulation and aids in the removal of toxins from the body. This leads to glowing skin, free of pimples or blemishes
The following physical exercises can be performed:
– Yoga
– Cardio Exercises
– Breathing Exercises
Meditation can also be done to reduce stress levels.
3. Herbs:
– Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties. When this oil is applied to the pimples, it causes a reduction in inflammation by eliminating bacteria.
Method: After having thoroughly cleaned the skin with a mild facial cleanser, apply tea tree oil to the affected area and let it sit. This will allow the oil to penetrate deep into the skin, and work its magic.
– Herbal Blend: Mix equal proportions of extracts of sarsaparilla, burdock, yellow dock and cleavers. Consume half a teaspoon of this blend, 3 times a day in conjugation with a healthy diet.
This herbal blend is known to be a potent cleanser for blood and lymph.
4. Garlic Remedy:
Garlic has numerous medicinal benefits which help in drying out the skin to get rid of pimples.
Method:
Make a paste of 2 parts garlic mixed in 1 part water and apply directly on the pimples.Alternatively, rubbing garlic cloves directly on the lesion may also help. However, avoid rubbing too vigorously as it may break the skin causing a burning sensation.
5. Aloe Vera:
Aloe Vera has numerous medicinal benefits, especially pertaining to skin conditions. It has a very soothing effect on the skin and helps reducing inflammation to get rid of both, pimples as well as acne and achieve glowing skin.
Applying aloe vera gel on the skin at least twice a day will help heal the pimples as well as acne scars.
