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Pimples – What You Need to Know?

Source shutterstock.com l Pimples

Pimples or zits are one of the types of acne that occurs around puberty, but in some people, it can also continue into adulthood. During puberty, there are changes in hormone production and as a result, the sebaceous glands become overactive. When dirt, oil and dead skin cells clog the pores, it can cause pimples, which affect face, chest, shoulders and back.

Although there is no evidence that confirms a particular type of food causing this skin condition, it is suggested to follow a healthy diet to reduce the risk. Pimples can be of many types – Blackheads, Whiteheads, Papules, Pustules, Cysts, or Nodules. If pimples are mild to moderate then you can try some simple home remedies to prevent them.

Causes of Pimples

Hormonal Changes

Source cheryleekinesiology.com.au l Hormonal Changes

The hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and puberty contribute to acne formation. During puberty, pregnancy etc, there is increased production of sex hormones, which results in more production of sebum by the follicular glands. A few hormones that are attributed to acne include dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone.

Greasy Cosmetics

Source shutterstock.com l Greasy Cosmetics

Some beauty products for both hair and skin may contain oil or ingredients that can trigger breakouts. If you continue to use these products then pimples may also continue to occur. So, it is suggested to use ‘non-comedogenic’ products or those that are labelled as ‘won’t clog pores’.

Medications

Source shutterstock.com l Medications

Acne eruptions can sometimes be triggered or aggravated due to certain medications. Oral corticosteroids, oral contraceptives and anabolic steroids can cause acne. Besides this antidepressants, halogens, antituberculosis drugs, antiepileptics etc are also known to cause acne.

Diet

Source shutterstock.com l Diet

Studies have shown that dairy products increase IGF-1 (an insulin-line growth factor), which triggers or worsen breakouts. Also, carbohydrate-rich foods like bagels, chips and bread can make the condition worse.

10 Best Home Remedies for Pimples

Aloe Vera

Source shutterstock.com l Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant with serrated and thick leaves. The clear gel in the leaves is used topically to soothe skin. Aloe Vera has compounds such as cinnamomic acid, sulfur, phenols, salicylic acid, lupeol etc, which can inhibit bacteria that cause pimples. In a randomized double-blind study, tretinoin cream with 50% of Aloe Vera Gel was topically used for 8 weeks and significant improvement was seen in the participants who had mild to moderate acne.

Scrape the gel from the aloe leaves and apply this on the affected area. Leave it overnight and wash off the next morning to reduce irritation and redness. There are plenty of aloe vera based home treatment for acne. If acne is mild-moderate, then this is one of the effective home remedies to include in your daily skincare regime.

Source shutterstock.com l Aloe Vera and Honey

Aloe Vera and Honey – Mix together 3 to 4 drops of honey, and 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel. Apply it on the face. Place cucumber slices on eyes and relax for 20 minutes. Wash with water and repeat this process once a week.

Source shutterstock.com l Aloe Vera and Lentil

Aloe Vera and Lentil – Clogged pores can cause pimples and this mask is quite effective to clear clogged pores. Masoor dal is a very good exfoliating agent, and aloe vera is a versatile ingredient that helps clear acne. Mix together 1 tbsp masoor dal powder and 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel and apply on the face. Massage your face with the paste and leave for 15 minutes. You can use this pack twice a week to get clear blemish-free skin.

Tea Tree Oil

Source kamaayurveda.com l Tea Tree Oil

Pimples develop when oil, dirt or bacteria accumulates in the pores. Tea tree oil promotes healthy skin by healing a range of skin issues including acne. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of the essential oil are especially useful in reducing acne scars. The compound terpinene-4-ol in the oil is as effective as the chemical components like benzoyl peroxide that is used to treat acne. It also helps reduce sebum production.

Since it is super potent, one must be cautious while using this essential oil. It is not recommended to apply the oil directly to the skin as it can cause irritation. It should always be diluted with a carrier oil like almond oil, coconut oil, olive oil, aloe vera or honey. Also, one must be careful while using it around the eye. You can counter the acne problem with tea tree oil. Try using products that contain tea tree oil for acne as there are chances that they will work for you. You can use multipurpose Tea Tree Essential Oil on Kama Ayurveda. The 12 ml product cost is Rs. 750.

Source shutterstock.com l Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera

Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera Face Pack – This remedy is for acne spot treatment. Mix 2 tsp of aloe vera gel with 1 tsp of tea tree oil. Apply this mixture on pimple marks using a cotton ear bud or q-tip after thoroughly cleaning your face. Leave for 15 minutes to rinse with water.

Source shutterstock.com l Tea Tree Oil and Black Charcoal

Tea Tree Oil and Black Charcoal – This remedy is effective to remove blackheads, which are also a type of acne that appears on the face. Mix together gelatine, clay and charcoal powder with a wooden spatula. Add hot water. Mix thoroughly and lastly add a few drops of tea tree essential oil. Apply this mixture on the face and allow it to dry. Once dry remove it using warm water. Charcoal is a nourishing ingredient that is especially effective for oily skin.

Amla

Source shutterstock.com l Amla

Indian gooseberry or amla is a superfood that holds great value in Ayurveda due to its several benefits. It a powerhouse of various nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B complex and antioxidants. Regular consumption of amla is considered to be beneficial to maintain skin health. It also can be used externally in the form of scrubs and face packs to prevent pimples, sunburn and other skin problems. It is an excellent elixir for our skin. Here are two face packs that you can try to reduce pimples and get rid of the scars.

Source shutterstock.com l Amla and Aloe Vera

Amla and Aloe Vera – Mix together 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel and 2 tbsp of amla juice. Apply this on the face for 15 minutes and rinse it. This pack reduces pimples marks and with regular use may prevent pimples too.

Source shutterstock.com l Amla and Turmeric

Amla and Turmeric – Mix 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp turmeric powder and 3 tbsp amla powder. Apply this on the face and leave for 20 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. Both turmeric and amla are good for the skin. The anti-bacterial properties of turmeric will help clean pores on the skin and prevent pimples and breakouts. You can avoid lemon juice if you have sensitive skin.

Tulsi

Source shutterstock.com l Tulsi

Tulsi is known as a miracle plant. It is packed with phytonutrients, minerals, electrolytes and vitamins. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties and is the best ingredient for skin and hair health. Tulsi does not just add flavour and aroma to curries and tea, but when used in your daily beauty regime, you can reap plenty of benefits.

Source shutterstock.com l Tulsi and Sandalwood

Tulsi and Sandalwood Face Pack – Mix together 1 tbsp of sandalwood paste (or powder), 1 tbsp basil leaves paste with rose water. Apply this mixture on face and neck. Leave for 20 minutes and wash off. Sandalwood has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help fight acne-causing bacteria.

Source shutterstock.com l Tulsi and Turmeric Drink

Tulsi and Turmeric Drink – Make a fine paste of 2 tsp turmeric powder and 20-25 tulsi leaves. Mix ½ tsp of the paste in ½ cup and consume before meals every day. Tulsi will protect against free radical damage while turmeric’s antibacterial properties will help clear skin.

Source shutterstock.com l Tulsi and Multani Mitti

Tulsi and Multani Mitti Face Pack– This face pack helps in absorbing excess oil and prevents pimples leaving your skin smooth and supple. Mix together 1 tbsp each of multani mitti, tulsi powder and sandalwood powder, 4 drops of olive oil, 5 drops of rose water. If the paste is too thick, you can add a little water. Apply the paste evenly all over the face and leave for 30 minutes and wash with cold water. The pack is effective in clearing blemishes and dark spots.

Neem Leaves

Source shutterstock.com l Neem Leaves

This is one of the best ingredients when it comes to treating various skin problems including pimples. The antibacterial properties of neem help in getting rid of both pimples and its scars. Moreover, it is the safest, fastest and surest ways to prevent any outbreak. This power herb has about 130 bioactive compounds. Besides following a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, pamper your skin with this natural ingredient to combat pimples and get a beautiful glowing skin.

If you are constantly suffering from pimples and unclear skin then try these wonderful face packs that guarantee to give a glow to your skin. These face packs work by preventing bacterial growth and reduces excess oil.

Source shutterstock.com l Neem and Tulsi

Neem and Tulsi – Blend ½ cup each of fresh neem and tulsi leaves, and 2 cloves to a smooth paste with a little water. Apply the pack on the face. Avoid the eye area. After 30 minutes wash with cold water. This is the best pack to reduce pimples and spots.

Source .shutterstock.com l Neem and Cucumber

Neem and Cucumber – Cucumber is well-known for its cooling effect while argan oil and neem leaves kill bacteria causing acne. You will need 2 tsp of each cucumber juice and neem leaves paste and 1/2 tsp of argan oil. Mix all these ingredients and apply evenly on your face. Leave the paste to dry for about 20 minutes and wash with water.

Green Tea

Source shutterstock.com l Green Tea

Although there are several over-the-counter and prescription medications available for acne, if you are looking for nonchemical and natural remedy to treat this problem then Green Tea is just perfect. The flavonoids and tannins in green tea are found to have an anti-acne effect. Also, tannins have anti-inflammatory property.

Another component present in green tea is catechins, that has antibiotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They attack free radicals. According to studies some people benefit by consuming green tea or through topical application. It reduces redness, lesions that are caused due to acne. Although there is no specific way to use green tea, a trial and error method would be beneficial.

Source shutterstock.com l Green Tea and Aloe Vera

Green Tea and Aloe Vera – Take 1 or 2 green tea bags, aloe vera gel and honey. Mix together green tea leaves with the other ingredients and apply on the affected area. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes. If you want the mixture to be paste-like then blend green tea leaves into a smooth paste before applying. Use this mask twice a week.

Honey

Source shutterstock.com l Honey

Honey in its natural form is produced by plant matter, live bacteria and enzyme activity, all coming together to make this powerful ingredient. Raw honey has components that are beneficial for skin, especially pimples. Manuka honey is considered to be the best for acne. Include honey in your daily beauty routine to get its benefits. Honey also helps to reduce facial scars. However, using honey must be avoided if you are allergic to it.

Source shutterstock.com l Honey and Cinnamon Face pack

Honey and Cinnamon Face pack – Cinnamon and honey are both antibacterial and helps combat acne-causing bacteria. Honey is especially effective to treat swollen red pimples. Mix 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp cinnamon. Apply this mixture on the face and leave for 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. Cinnamon can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid using the mask if you are allergic to any of the ingredients.

Licorice

Source indus-valley.com l Licorice

Liquorice is a herbal root that is obtained from the Glycyrrhiza plant. It is known as Mulethi in India and has been used in Ayurveda for its immense beauty benefits. The demulcent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help heal several skin conditions including inflammation and redness. The liquorice powder available on Indus-Valley is a chemical-free product that can be used for DIY pimple packs. The microfine powder makes it easy to use in any preparation. The price of the product is Rs. 199.

Source shutterstock.com l Liquorice and Aloe Vera

Liquorice and Aloe Vera Face Pack – Mix 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel and 1 tbsp of liquorice powder. Apply this pack on neck and face. Leave for 20 minutes for the goodness of the mask to seep into the skin to give maximum effectiveness and rinse off. This topical application has a cooling effect and fights dark spots and pigmentation. It helps reduce pimple scars. Apply the mask once a week for optimal results.

Witch Hazel

Source sattvicfoods.in l Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel is a powerful plant with medicinal properties. Studies have suggested that the herb is useful to treat pimples. It can be directly applied to the face for maximum effectiveness. The astringent property helps shrink pores thus soothing and relieving inflammation. It might also prevent bacteria that causes acne and hence many over-the-counter products for acne use this herb as one of its ingredients.

The Witch Hazel Distillate available on sattivicfoods.in is a versatile natural astringent that can treat oily, red, blemished and irritated skin. The flavonoids found in Witch Hazel’s is soothing and effective. This colourless distillate is suitable for all skin types. The natural toner is perfect to make your DIY anti-acne creams. The distillate is also very effective in minimizing enlarged pores that helps reduce oiliness and leaves your skin fresh and toned. 30 ml of the product costs Rs. 300.

Chamomile

Source dancingleaftea.com l Chamomile

Chamomile is a potent powerhouse that has a number of benefits from clearing skin problems, nausea to insomnia. Chamomile is native to Australia, North America, Europe and Asian regions and blooms during the summer season. The aromatic compound – Chamazulene found in chamomile has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in reducing acne, as well as the inflammation and redness associated with it. You can buy the deep floral-scented chamomile tea on dancingleaftea.com. The price of 50 grams of chamomile flowers is Rs. 450.

Source shutterstock.com l Chamomile tea

Make chamomile tea. Allow it to cool. Dip a cotton ball in the tea and dab it on the face. Leave for 15 minutes and rinse.

Source shutterstock.com l Chamomile face pack

Alternatively, make a paste of chamomile tea with enough water. Apply it on the acne and leave for some time before washing it off.

Best Acne Treatment

Source shutterstock.com l Acne Treatment

Acne medications help reduce oil production, inflammation and fight the bacterial infection. The treatment regimen prescribed by your dermatologist depends on the type, severity and age of the person. Besides topical and oral medications like retinoids, antibiotics, salicylic acid, isotretinoin etc. there are some therapies too that are suggested either alone or with medications.

  • Chemical Peel – In this procedure, chemical solutions like glycolic acid, retinoic acid or salicylic acid is used. Repeat chemical treatments are required to see improvement.

  • Lasers/Photodynamic Therapy – Here an array of light-based treatments is used to treat acne.

  • Extraction of Blackheads and Whiteheads – Special tools are used to remove blackheads and whiteheads that are not cleared with topical medicines. However, there are chances that it might cause scarring.

  • Steroid Injection – Steroids are directly injected into the cystic and nodular lesions. The therapy is quite effective and also it reduces pain. However, the treated area might become thin after therapy.
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Malathi
Malathi is a freelance content writer offering blogging, ghost-writing, and copywriting services. In addition to developing digital marketing content, she maintains niche websites related to kids, parenting, and pregnancy. Malathi's works have been featured on several prominent blogs and websites. When she is not writing, you will find her exploring exotic locales on our beautiful planet.

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Skincare Tips!

It is important to have a proper skincare routine when it comes to pimples. Start with washing your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day. More than that and you are stripping your face of all oils. Apply spot treatment like tea tree oil on your pimples and follow up with moisturizing. Sunscreen is vital; you do not want to inflame your skin even more. Practise yoga and other stress-relieving strategies. Most importantly watch your diet.