Natural remedies for common skin issues: Acne, dryness and irritation

"Despite the dominance of over-the-counter skin cosmetic products, natural remedies provide suitable alternatives that are effective, fast to access, affordable and gentle on the skin" - Serah W.

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Acne, dryness and irritation are highly prevalent skin conditions among the populace. These conditions are caused by bacteria being trapped in skin pores, environmental triggers, fungus or parasites on your skin, and genetic or hormonal imbalances.

Acne

Acne Vulgaris is a skin condition that occurs when oil and dead skin cells block the tiny hair follicles under the skin. According to the Global Burden of Disease study, it is estimated that 85% of late adolescents aged 12-15 are affected by acne regardless of sex or their socio-economic status.

Here are the natural treatments for acne:

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has properties like anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory that reduce inflammation caused by acne. To do this; mix tree oil with a carrier oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil and apply it directly on the affected areas on the skin. Leave it for some hours or even overnight and rinse with water.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has a soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and irritation that is associated with acne. To use it; apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on the affected areas and wash after some minutes or leave it overnight.

Honey and Cinnamon mask

Honey has been used for many years to treat acne as it contains antibacterial properties while cinnamon reduces inflammation. To treat acne with the mask of these two constituents; mix a tablespoon of honey with a half teaspoon of cinnamon and make a paste. Apply the mask on the face using your fingertips and let it rest for 10-20 minutes before rinsing it with water.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural astringent and antiseptic which means it can kill bacteria, dry out pimples and tighten pores. To use lemon juice for acne apply the freshly squeezed lemon juice on the skin using a cotton ball and leave it on for some minutes before rinsing it off.

Skin Dryness

Dry skin also known as xerosis or xeroderma occurs when the skin produces less oil than necessary and loses a lot of water. Although this condition is common is most age groups, the American Academy of Dermatology Association confirmed that dry skin is a common risk to people over 40 years as the skin tends to make less oil as one gets older. Dry skin is caused by heat, dehydration, harsh soaps and detergent, environmental effects, too much bathing, and scrubbing and aging.

Natural remedies for skin dryness include the following:

Oatmeal

The anti-inflammatory properties in oatmeal makes it suitable for people who have dry skin. Ground oatmeal work as an exfoliant. It moisturizes and reduces inflammation. To use oatmeal for dry skin; mix ground oatmeal with water and create a paste. Apply the paste on the dry skin and stay let it sit for 20-30 minutes before rinsing with water. There are creams that contain oatmeal and can also be used to relieve dry skin.

Olive Oil

Olive oil has fatty acids and antioxidants that can result to a hydrated and glowing skin. To reduce dryness on the skin with olive oil; apply a pure and cold compressed olive oil to affected areas on the skin to moisturize the skin and keep it hydrated.

Drinking Milk

Milk is full of minerals and vitamins. Calcium and potassium - as electrolyte replenishments for what is excreted, e.g. via sweat - are important for skin moisturization. Vitamin A and vitamin D found in milk nourishes the skin and protects it from harmful sun rays. To use milk for dry skin; use cold milk put in a bowl. Soak a cloth or cotton ball in it and apply on the face and neck. Let it settle for some minutes so as to allow the skin to absorb the nutrients from the milk, then rinse with clean water.

Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly, which contains mineral oil and waxes, has been the preferred choice in subsistence for many households. It is mostly used as a moisturizer for the skin to avoid dryness. As a semi-solid mixture, the jelly forms a thin film on the skin when applied thus sealing in the much-needed moisture.

Skin Irritation

Skin irritation is a feeling of having slight pain and discomfort on the skin. It is caused by several factors including allergic reactions to food, medicines, pollen and insect bites.

You can soothe the skin irritation with the following natural remedies:

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has anti-microbial properties that gets rid of bacteria and prevents infection. To use it for the irritated skin; get a raw, organic and unfiltered apple cider vinegar and dilute it with water. Apply it on the affected area. Due to its strong smell, it is best to apply it at night before bed and shower thoroughly the following day to clear off the smell.

Baking Soda

Baking soda has alkaline properties that neutralize acidity on the skin, hence reducing itching and inflammation. To use baking soda for skin irritation; mix it with water to make a paste and apply it on the affected skin area for 10- 30 minutes before rinsing with water.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammation properties that soothe skin irritations. Chamomile tea can be used in baths by adding it in the bathing water and relax in it for about 20 minutes. You can also brew chamomile teabags in boiling water and let it rest for few minutes. Do not allow it to cool down completely. Use it when it is a little bit hot; take the teabag and gently squeeze the liquid out and then gently dab the teabag on the affected skin area.

Cucumber Slices

Cucumbers have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that calm an irritated skin. To use it when irritated; place chilled cucumber slices on the affected skin for around 15-20 minutes.

Cold Compress

Cold compress can provide a mild relief from irritation and the inflammation that accompanies it. To use this method; apply a cool, damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area. This will reduce redness, swelling and itching.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a liquid that is distilled from dried leaves, bark and partially dormant twigs of witch hazel. Witch hazel has astringent properties that reduce inflammation and itching on the skin. To use this for irritation; add the witch hazel liquid to a piece of cloth or cotton ball and apply directly to the affected area.

Natural remedies have been known to be effective and pocket-friendly alternatives to treat skin conditions. However, it is important to consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying any new natural treatment at home, especially if you have a skin which is sensitive or a pre-existing skin medical condition. You ought to go for dermatological checkups if your skin condition continues to worsens after trying home remedies. With patience and following the right procedures in using natural remedies, you can get a soft and moisturized skin with limited side effects.