6 Ways to Get Rid of Acne Scars with Home Remedies

2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 09:13

Acne scars occur when pimples and cysts are squeezed or broken, thereby damaging a layer of the skin. Thankfully, though, there are many home methods that can help you get rid of these unsightly marks. In general, try natural treatments that help soothe inflammation and exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells. Also, it's important to keep your skin clean, have a healthy diet, and avoid substances that could make acne worse.

Steps

Method 1 of 6: Prevent Acne and Scarring

Step 1. Understand the causes and risk factors of acne scarring

Teasing, breaking, or squeezing a pimple can cause further blemishes and permanent scars. The fewer breakouts you have, the less likely they are to scars. Treating acne is important to prevent them, especially in the following cases:

• Severe and painful cysts and nodules. Nodules are large, inflamed, hard-textured pimples. Cysts are pus-filled, painful pimples. Both lesions can form deeply and often cause scars to appear. This type of acne is referred to as "cystic".
• Acne that appeared at a young age. Within a few years, this skin disease often worsens. If a preteen is affected, dermatologists recommend having a specific examination. Treating the condition before it gets worse reduces the risk of scarring.
• Family members with a blood connection have acne scars. This tendency is often hereditary.

Step 2. Avoid teasing your face

When you touch your face too often, dirt and bacteria from your hands can clog pores and inflame the skin. If you find that she is particularly irritated by acne, use a gentle, non-oily wet wipe to remove excess dirt and reduce inflammation. Resist the urge to touch or tease the skin.

• Keep your hands clean by washing them frequently or using a hand sanitizer on the go.
• Do not squeeze or squeeze blemishes, as this increases the risk of scarring. In some cases, breaking a pimple can make bacterial growth worse.
• Don't cover blemishes with your hair. Keep them away from your face by picking them up with rubber bands, headbands or clips.
• In case of oily skin, dermatologists also recommend that you shampoo regularly. The sebum can transfer to the forehead and cheeks, causing blemishes to appear.

Step 3. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun

Moderate exposure is good for the immune system, in fact it stimulates the production of vitamin D. However, acne scars that are exposed to excessive ultraviolet radiation often become permanent.

• Excessive exposure to UV rays can also cause sunspots and freckles. These patches begin to form under the surface layer of the skin; over the years they cause the appearance of dark spots on the skin surface.
• To protect your skin from sun damage, use a cream with SPF (sun protection factor) 30, as a minimum.
• Some chemicals in sunscreen can cause allergies. You should consult a dermatologist to find the right cream for you.

Step 4. Choose your cosmetics carefully

Some products can make acne worse and increase the risk of scarring. Go for non-toxic cosmetics and apply them sparingly.

• Use paraben-free skin products. These are preservatives that are included in many cosmetics. They can irritate and inflame acne-prone skin, not to mention that they are potential allergens. Butylparaben and propylparaben are more harmful than methylparaben and ethylparaben; however, the latter are more easily absorbed by the human body.
• Do not use products containing synthetic dyes. The epidermis absorbs almost 60% of all substances applied to its surface. Avoid cosmetics with artificial colors; in particular, stay away from E102, E129, E132, E133 and E143. In addition to being harmful to the skin, they are neurotoxins that can contribute to the onset of cancer.
• Use oil-free cosmetics for skin and hair.
• Do not wear makeup immediately after washing your face, as this can clog pores and cause further acne breakouts.

Step 5. Don't smoke

Smoking can cause so-called "smoker's acne". This disorder occurs when the body does not generate an inflammatory response to heal the skin as quickly as it would with normal acne.

• Smokers are 4 times more likely to suffer from moderate post-adolescent acne. This is especially true for women between the ages of 25 and 50.
• Cigarette smoke can be irritating to those with sensitive skin.
• Smoking can also cause other skin blemishes, such as wrinkles and premature aging, because it stimulates the production of free radicals. Free radicals are chemically reactive molecules that can damage cells.
• Smoking also impairs collagen production and damages skin proteins. Collagen is a structural protein that fights aging. It promotes cell generation and repair, thus keeping the skin young and compact. A decrease in collagen can greatly reduce the effectiveness of acne treatments. Additionally, reducing the production of this protein can slow down the healing of scars.

Step 6. Avoid stress

According to some studies, emotional stress can make acne worse, especially among women. Here are some ways to handle it:

• Listening to music. Relaxing music can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety.
• Take some time to unplug. Replace those unnecessary chores that drain precious moments with enjoyable or interesting activities. If the source of the stress is indoors, try to be outside for a while, even if it is just 1-2 hours a week.
• Meditation. It can help reduce blood pressure, chronic pain, and anxiety. In addition, it can lower cholesterol - therefore it promotes general psychophysical well-being.
• To do a simple meditation exercise, sit cross-legged in a quiet place, and breathe slowly and deeply for at least 5-10 minutes. Try to meditate at least 5 minutes a day to be able to control stress.
• Other meditation techniques include practices such as tai chi, yoga, biofeedback, and massage therapy.

Step 7. Get enough sleep

Collagen production and cell repair are faster and more effective when you rest well. The body must have enough time to regenerate and get rid of scars.

• Cultivating good sleep hygiene guarantees you a quality and constant rest.
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and sugary drinks 4-6 hours before bedtime. They can have a stimulating action and keep you awake.
• A quiet, dark and cool environment can promote sleep. Use heavy curtains or a mask to block out the light. The temperature should be comfortable and cool, between 18 and 24 ° C, the room well ventilated.

Step 8. Exercise regularly

Sport helps reduce stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. In addition, it allows you to strengthen the immune system, so that it is able to fight bacteria, viruses and free radicals. This factor plays an important role in reducing acne.

You should get at least 30-40 minutes of moderate exercise or 10-15 minutes of intense exercise daily. Moderate exercise includes walking and recreational swimming. Strenuous physical activity includes sports such as basketball, soccer, and hiking

Step 9. Try to have clean clothes and bedding

Do not wear synthetic and tight-fitting clothes, which rub the skin. Pillow cases should always be fresh.

• Helmets, masks, headbands, and other tight-fitting sports equipment can rub against the skin and exacerbate acne. Make sure you clean them constantly and shower after each workout.
• Bacteria, dirt, and dead skin cells can lurk between pillowcases and sheets, and then clog your pores while you sleep. This can cause further acne breakouts, which in turn causes scars to appear. Change your pillow cases often.
• If you apply acne-fighting cream before bed, you might want to spread a clean towel on your pillow every night.

Method 2 of 6: Skin cleansing

Step 1. Use a mild cleanser, avoid soaps

Having clean skin is important to prevent the appearance of impurities. However, some commercial products can do more harm than good. Soap-free cleansers are free of chemicals that could irritate and cause scarring on acne-prone skin.

• Go for an organic, chemical-free cleanser to avoid further irritation and scarring. Many natural products are readily available in pharmacies.
• If you have sensitive skin, you need to steer clear of astringent cleansers. They can cause dryness and irritation.
• When you don't have time to wash your face with a cleanser, use oil-free, non-abrasive wet wipes.
• To make a natural cleanser and toner, steep one teaspoon of green tea in a cup of warm water for 3-5 minutes. Then, strain the liquid into a clean bowl and let it cool for 15-20 minutes. Apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball, washcloth or microfiber cloth.

Step 2. Wash your face properly

A good cleaning does not only depend on the products you use: the secret also lies in the washing. Follow these instructions:

• Before applying the cleanser, wash your hands so dirt and bacteria don't clog your pores.
• Gently moisten your face with warm or cold water before applying the cleanser.
• Gently massage the cleanser into the skin for 3-5 minutes with your fingers.
• Then, wash it off with cold water and pat your face with a soft towel or cloth.
• Dermatologists recommend limiting washings to 2 per day and times of excessive sweating. Wash your face once in the morning and once in the evening, but also after sweating heavily.
• Sweating irritates the skin, especially when you are wearing a hat or helmet. After sweating, wash as soon as possible.

Step 3. Try washing yourself with milk

In addition to natural cleansers, you can wash your face with plain whole milk. Lactic acid has a mild exfoliating action that helps remove dead cells and even skin tone. In addition, it reduces scars and blemishes.

• Just pour the milk into a spoon and apply it to your face with a cotton ball. Massage it in a circular motion for at least 3-5 minutes to effectively remove dirt from the pores. Coconut milk contains medium-chain fatty acids that kill bacteria and viruses, and it also helps reduce pustules and cysts. You can then replace cow's milk with coconut milk, which is available in well-stocked supermarkets or oriental food stores.
• If you have inflamed pimples or oily skin, mix a teaspoon of rice or chickpea flour with a tablespoon of milk to make a thick mixture. With your fingers, gently massage it into the skin.
• Wash it off with cold water, then pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Step 4. Use dried orange peels

Even the peels of this citrus fruit can cleanse the skin effectively and naturally. They contain vitamin C, which promotes collagen production and repairs skin cells. This reduces the visibility of acne scars and blemishes.

• Orange peels are particularly good for those with oily skin, as they eliminate sebum (greasy matter produced by the sebaceous glands). In addition, the essential oils of the peel naturally moisturize it.
• Dry an orange peel, then grind it to a fine powder. Mix half a teaspoon of this powder with a teaspoon of milk, coconut milk, or yogurt, then gently massage the mixture into your skin. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with cold water.
• The cooling effect of milk or yogurt helps to soothe inflammation and eliminate dead cells.

Step 5. Use jojoba oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba tree

It is the most similar oil there is to the sebum produced by the skin. Furthermore, it is not comedogenic, therefore, unlike sebum, it does not clog pores, which reduces the appearance of impurities.

• Applying jojoba oil can fool the skin into believing it is producing enough sebum, so the function of the sebaceous glands is balanced.
• Pour 1-3 drops of jojoba oil onto a cotton ball to cleanse the skin. Those with dry skin can use 5-6 drops, as it is also a natural moisturizer.
• Since jojoba oil is not irritating or allergenic, you can use it to remove make-up from your face, including your eyes.
• You can find it in well-stocked supermarkets and organic food stores. Make sure you store it in a cool, dry place.

Method 3 of 6: Exfoliation to Remove Scars

Step 1. Use a gentle exfoliating product

Exfoliation is the elimination of dead cells. It can help minimize the visibility of scars and hyperpigmentation patches (red spots). Also, it is important to remove the dead skin layer, which can clog pores, thus causing acne to reappear. There are many useful products for this purpose:

• Before using exfoliating products, talk to a dermatologist to figure out which treatment suits your skin type.
• Those with dry, sensitive skin should limit exfoliation to a couple of times a week. If your skin is oily and thick, you can exfoliate it once a day.
• Microfiber cloths are ideal for exfoliating the skin. Thanks to their composition, they remove dirt and sebum from the pores without exerting any pressure or rubbing.
• After washing your face with a cleanser, dry it with a soft cloth or towel. Then, gently massage the microfiber cloth into your skin for 3-5 minutes. After each use, be sure to wash it with soap and let it dry.

Step 2. Make a sugar scrub

You can make an exfoliant at home: sugar is one of the best beauty allies to naturally exfoliate the skin. The scrubs that contain it help to remove dead cells and regenerate the deeper layers of the skin, eliminating all the dirt nestled in the pores.

• Sugar also has a natural anti-aging effect on the skin. Helps eliminate free radicals to decelerate the aging process.
• For this scrub, you can use any type of sugar: granulated, muscovado or organic. Muscovado sugar is the finest and least abrasive. The grained one is only slightly grainier and does its job just as well. Organic is the biggest of all.
• To make the scrub, mix half a cup of muscovado sugar with 2 tablespoons of glycerin, 80 ml of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil. You can also add a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil to make it fragrant. Mix the ingredients in a small bowl, then pour the mixture into a jar.
• To make the sugar scrub, massage a small amount on the affected area for 3-5 minutes. Eliminate it with warm water.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place for no more than 2-3 weeks.

Step 3. Try an oatmeal scrub

Oats contain saponins, natural cleansers of plant extraction. In addition, it has phenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and photoprotective properties. The high concentration of starch promotes good skin hydration, so it can be used by those with sensitive skin.

To make a natural exfoliant, bring 1 tablespoon of organic oat flakes to a boil in 60ml of water. Once the mixture has cooled, massage it gently on your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Eliminate it with warm water

Step 4. Use baking soda

The fine particles of the bicarbonate gently remove dead and damaged cells, as well as excess sebum. It is particularly useful for those with delicate skin, since it gradually dissolves on the epidermis.

• To make a simple scrub, just mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water. Massage it into your skin for 5 minutes.
• If you have thick, oily skin, add a few drops of lemon juice. It has astringent properties that prevent future acne breakouts.
• If your acne is inflammatory or cystic, don't use baking soda.

Method 4 of 6: Moisturize the skin

Step 1. Use a natural moisturizer

Dry skin can irritate and make scars and blemishes more noticeable. A non-comedogenic moisturizer can help prevent dryness and keep skin fresh. Choose a natural, organic plant-derived cream or lotion with anti-inflammatory properties. Look for ingredients such as chamomile, green tea, aloe vera, calendula, or oats.

• Moisturizers should be applied regularly after cleansing or exfoliation.
• A moisturizer with alpha hydroxy acids can help reduce the visibility of scars, impurities and wrinkles. Alpha hydroxy acids include glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid.
• Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant, which is a compound that helps the skin retain moisture. It is present in many products available in pharmacies and perfumery in the form of lotion, tonic or spray.
• Hyaluronic acid plays a fundamental role in the prevention of aging because it repairs and protects the deeper layers of the skin.

Step 2. Apply aloe vera gel

This plant contains active ingredients that reduce inflammation while stimulating skin regeneration and repair.

Aloe vera extract is found in many commercially available moisturizers and topical gel form. You can buy it in pharmacies and herbalists. Apply it regularly to reduce the visibility of scars

Step 3. Apply a calendula ointment, also called "Mary's gold"

It is another natural substance found in many products on the market. In addition, it is available in the form of an extract. It is often used to treat scars as it stimulates cell regeneration and repair.

• Calendula is also used to improve skin hydration and firmness. Apply an ointment with a concentration of 2-5%.
• Apply 3-4 times a day as needed to reduce the visibility of post-acne scars and blemishes.
• You can make an herbal tea by infusing 2-3 g of calendula flowers in a cup of warm water. You can use it daily to wash your face.
• Those who are allergic to plants belonging to the asteraceae family, including chrysanthemum and ragweed, can also be allergic to calendula.

Step 4. Try coconut oil

Virgin coconut oil contains a blend of vitamin E and fatty acids. They have anti-inflammatory properties and fight the bacteria responsible for other skin infections.

• Applying 1-2 drops of coconut oil to the skin 2 times a day can substantially reduce dryness.
• Coconut oil has regenerative properties that can help repair cells and reduce scar formation.
• Those with oily skin should use it in moderation, about twice a week. Overdoing it can clog pores and cause more acne breakouts.
• Coconut oil can be found in many health food stores. Make sure it's virgin, cold pressed and organic. Do not use it if you are allergic to nuts.

Step 5. Use the avocado

It is a fruit rich in vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids that stimulate collagen production and tissue repair. You can prepare a mask that can help you heal scars.

• Vitamins A and C have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radicals. Vitamin E allows you to hydrate it and reduce the visibility of scars.
• To make a natural avocado mask, remove the pulp, and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Then, wash it off with fresh water. Dab the leather with a soft cloth.
• If you have sensitive and dry skin, you can use this remedy every day. Those with oily skin should limit themselves to 2 times a week.

Step 6. Apply honey

It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce scar visibility and inflammation. To use it as a local treatment, just spread a thin layer of it on the affected area and cover it with gauze.

• Manuka honey has a higher concentration of active ingredients that help reduce scars.
• Honey can help reduce or prevent bacterial infections. Before using it for this purpose, ask your dermatologist for advice.

Method 5 of 6: Using Natural Remedies

Step 1. Do a salicylic acid peel

To treat acne scars, you can use many natural remedies. Salicylic acid, for example, is of plant origin. For those with a dark complexion, it is an effective treatment for both acne and hyperpigmentation.

• Salicylic acid peeling can be performed by a dermatologist in his or her office, but there are also kits on the market for use at home.
• Salicylic acid has minimal side effects and is not recommended for people allergic to aspirin.

Step 2. Use an alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acid gel

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) occur naturally in the body; reduce the visibility of scars, blemishes and wrinkles. They gently exfoliate the surface layer of the skin.

• AHAs include lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and glycolic acid. Many drugstores and perfumeries sell scar-fighting gels containing alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids.
• Apply the gel to the affected area up to 2 times a day.
• Do not use products that have an AHA concentration greater than 20%. Overdoing these acids can drain the oil from the skin and dehydrate it.
• The dermatologist can also perform a glycolic acid peel in his office.

Step 3. Do an apple cider vinegar peel

It is an antiseptic that eliminates the bacteria responsible for acne. Contains malic, lactic and acetic acid. These acids help tone and purify the skin surface by stimulating the production of collagen. This repairs the cells and removes the dead ones.

• When buying this product, choose the darkest, dullest vinegar you can find. The more residues it contains, the more beneficial ingredients will act on the skin.
• Mix 120ml of organic apple cider vinegar with 60g of baking soda, 60g of sea salt, 170g of honey and 5-10 drops of tea tree oil or calendula essential oil. Pour all the ingredients into a jar and mix them well. If the mixture is too watery, add more baking soda or salt - the peel should not ooze from the face.
• For a week, apply it daily with your fingers. Make gentle, circular movements all over your face, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.

Step 4. Apply onion extract gel

Many studies show its effectiveness; in fact, it seems to promote healing from scars and burns. Onions contain quercetin, a natural antioxidant that helps fight free radicals. In addition, it reduces inflammation, stimulates cell regeneration and the repair of damaged tissues.

• Onions are rich in sulfur, an antibacterial substance that can help reduce acne breakouts. Onion extract also has whitening properties, so it can reduce blemishes and hyperpigmentation spots.
• You can buy it at the pharmacy, but also make it at home. To make an all-natural product, use a mechanical grater to mash a small onion. Let the mixture cool in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This helps reduce that pungent odor that can cause irritation. Take it out of the fridge and apply it to the affected areas.
• Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then wash it off with fresh water. You can use this method once a day until completely healed. You should see improvement within 4-10 weeks.
• If it causes bad irritation, stop using it.

Step 5. Apply a mask to the sea silt

It is a type of mud containing sea salt that settles in coastal areas. It has many beneficial active ingredients, including unsaturated fatty acids, sulfur, algae with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

• Sea silt can also help improve skin texture by eliminating dead skin cells and bacteria. This improves the overall appearance of the scars.
• Sea silt is found in many masks on the market, available in pharmacies or perfumery.
• You can do this mask 2 times a week or according to the recommendations of the dermatologist and your skin type.
• Sulfur and sea salt can irritate dry, sensitive skin or inflamed scars.

Method 6 of 6: Food and Drinks That Help Reduce Scars

Step 1. Drink lots of water

Dehydration can cause dry skin, but also weaken the immune system, as toxins are not excreted through sweat and other secretions. It becomes more difficult for the body to heal superficial wounds, such as acne scars.

• Maintaining good hydration can also improve skin elasticity. This can reduce the visibility of wrinkles and depressed acne scars.
• Drink at least 250ml of water every 2 hours to maintain optimal hydration level. You should aim to drink at least 2-4 liters of water per day.
• If you consume caffeinated beverages, drink at least 1 liter of water for every cup of caffeine.

Step 2. Eliminate sugars and dairy products

A combination of sugars and dairy products is particularly harmful to the sebaceous glands, in fact it alters their functioning. Studies carried out in different parts of the world among indigenous peoples have shown that this pathology is absent among adolescents who do not consume dairy products and sugars - this is due to their traditional eating habits. In fact, among young people who have adopted a Western-style diet, an onset of acne has been observed, similar to what happens to adolescents in countries such as the United States.

Step 3. Drink green tea

It is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which stimulate the production of collagen and repair skin cells, thus limiting the visibility of scars. Antioxidants also help fight free radicals. They protect from ultraviolet radiation and reduce wrinkles. Additionally, green tea can relieve stress.

• You can make green tea by steeping 2-3 g of leaves in a cup of warm water for 3-5 minutes.
• Green tea can be drunk 2-3 times a day.
• Topical treatments containing green tea can also reduce the visibility of scars.

Step 4. Get your fill of vitamin A

According to research, this vitamin, also called retinol, stimulates the production of collagen. In addition, it helps protect the skin from free radicals and ultraviolet radiation.

• Good sources of vitamin A include salmon, tuna, egg yolks, carrots, green leafy vegetables, yellow or orange fruits. Natural sources have no side effects. It is also available in the pharmacy as a supplement.
• You can increase the absorption of vitamin A by following a diet free of harmful fats. Avoid margarine, hydrogenated oils, and processed foods.
• The recommended daily dose of vitamin A is 700-900 micrograms (2334-3000 IU). High doses of vitamin A (greater than 3000 micrograms or 10,000 IU) can have harmful side effects, including birth defects and depression: intake should be carefully monitored.

Step 5. Consume more vitamin C

It has the very important function of strengthening the immune system, it also helps the body to produce collagen and is an excellent antioxidant.

• You can take a vitamin C food supplement. A dose of 500 mg is recommended, spread over 2-3 times a day.
• You can also add vitamin C-rich foods to your daily diet. Red and green peppers, citrus fruits, non-concentrated citrus juices, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, strawberries, raspberries, avocados, and tomatoes are good natural sources.

Step 6. Eat foods containing vitamin E

It is an antioxidant that prevents acne breakouts caused by bacteria, viruses and free radicals. In addition, it helps protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation. It can promote cell renewal and keep the skin hydrated.

• Vitamin E is found in foods such as vegetable oils, almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, spinach and broccoli.
• For adults, the recommended dose is 15 mg (22.35 IU) per day. In any case, recent studies have shown that it is possible to safely take 268 mg (400 IU) per day of this valuable antioxidant. Ask your doctor to recommend the best amount for you.
• Eating foods containing vitamin E poses no risk or harm. On the other hand, high doses of tocopherol supplements can lead to serious consequences.

Step 7. Get the zinc

According to some studies, this mineral can help reduce scars. You can apply it to the skin in the form of a cream to speed up the healing of lesions.

• Zinc is an essential trace mineral. It is found in many foods you eat regularly. It has antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage due to the action of bacteria and viruses.
• The best food sources of zinc are oysters, seafood, red meats, poultry, cheese, shrimp, crabs, beans, sunflower seeds, squash, tofu, miso, mushrooms. and cooked vegetables.
• Zinc is available in supplement form and in many multivitamin capsules. The forms of zinc that are easily absorbed are the following: zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc glycinate and zinc monomethionine.
• A daily dose of 10-15 mg is recommended, so try to get the right amounts. This can be done easily thanks to a healthy diet. Overdoing zinc can decrease copper levels and weaken the immune system.
• Use zinc-based creams only if prescribed by your dermatologist.

Advice

If any of the methods outlined in this article don't work, consult a dermatologist. There are several surgical procedures to treat acne scars. You might also consider steroid injections or cryotherapy, which involves freezing the scars

Warnings

• Do not rub your skin - it can make the situation worse and increase the risk of permanent scarring.
• In pregnancy, retinoids and high doses of vitamin A should be avoided. They can be highly toxic to the baby and cause birth defects.
• Before adding any new supplements to your diet, consult a doctor. Some of them can have harmful side effects, especially if you overdo the dosage.
• Don't use toothpaste. Many believe it is a natural treatment for acne and scars, however certain ingredients - such as sodium lauryl ether sulfate, triclosan, and peppermint - can aggravate the condition.
• Use retinoids with caution. This treatment helps ease the symptoms of acne. However, it must be remembered that retinoids taken by mouth can cause depression or anxiety, but also trigger suicidal thoughts and episodes of violence. Instead of this active ingredient, you get vitamin A from natural and food sources - this produces healthy retinol that will strengthen the immune system and repair the skin.
• Avoid benzoyl peroxide. Some dermatologists may suggest using it as an alternative to antibiotic treatments, but this can do more harm than good. You can use it occasionally in low concentrations. Regular use can damage the skin and have other negative side effects.