Effective natural acne treatment
Some natural treatments may be helpful in reducing acne
inflammation and breakouts:
Tea tree oil. Gels containing 5 percent tea tree oil may be
as effective as are lotions containing 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, although tea
tree oil might work more slowly. Possible side effects include contact
dermatitis and, if you have rosacea, a worsening of those symptoms. One study
reported that a young boy experienced breast development after using a combination
lavender and tea tree oil hair product. Tea tree oil should be used only
topically.
Alpha hydroxy acid. This natural acid is found in citrus
fruit and other foods. When applied to your skin, alpha hydroxy acid helps
remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. It may also improve the appearance of
acne scars. Side effects include increased sensitivity to the sun, redness,
mild stinging and skin irritation.
Azelaic acid. This naturally occurring acid is found in
whole-grain cereals and animal products. It has antibacterial properties. A 20
percent azelaic acid cream seems to be as effective as many other conventional
acne treatments when used twice a day for at least four weeks. It's even more
effective when used in combination with erythromycin. Prescription azelaic acid
(Azelex, Finacea) is an option during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.
Bovine cartilage. Creams containing 5 percent bovine
cartilage, applied to the affected skin twice a day, may be effective in
reducing acne.
Zinc. Zinc in lotions and creams may reduce acne breakouts.
Green tea extract. A lotion of 2 percent green tea extract
helped reduce acne in two studies of adolescents and young adults with mild to
moderate acne.
Aloe vera. A 50 percent aloe vera gel was combined with a
conventional acne drug (tretinoin) and tested for eight weeks on 60 people with
moderate acne. The combination approach was significantly more effective than
tretinoin alone.
Brewer's yeast. A specific strain of brewer's yeast, called
CBS 5926, seems to help decrease acne. Brewer's yeast is the only item in this
list that's taken orally. It may cause flatulence.
More research is needed to establish the potential
effectiveness and long-term safety of these and other natural acne treatments,
traditional Chinese medicine and ayurvedic herbs.
Talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of specific
treatments before you try them.