Many people are affected by acne and it often goes untreated. People who do not treat this problem will likely end up with long lasting effects that could permanently damage their complexion, for example hyper pigmentation and scarring. Acne is like any other illness in the respect that it should be recognized as a health problem and treated. And fortunately there are a number of natural treatment options that are available to help clear acne.

How does Acne Develop?

The development of acne begins deep inside your skin's hair follicles. These spaces are surrounded by skin cells and sebaceous glands that are responsible for producing sebum, a type of oil. The sebum in clear follicles brings dead skin cells to the surface to be washed away. A blemish is caused when this process is interrupted by a blockage caused by a group of skin cells that cannot be secreted from the follicle. This blockage is due to a mass of oil and dead skin cells, causing a micro comedone. The blocked follicle creates a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and feed on the oil and dead skin cells. As the infection grows it causes a whitehead, a closed comedone, or a blackhead, an open comedone. In more severe infections your body attempts to fight it off creating the mass to grow larger with inflammation and result in a painful bump or cyst.

What Causes Acne?

It is helpful to know about that factors that trigger this nasty process to begin. There are many different things that can lead to acne. Genetics, stress, and diet are the most influential factors that can cause acne. People who are affected with acne react in many ways, some with responses that can actually exacerbate their condition. For example, cleansing your skin often may seem like a logical answer, but over cleansing can actually have a negative effect. Other beauty products can negatively affect skin, such as hair products containing oil that can create acne in the areas of the forehead and temples. Make-up too is most often oil based. Do not be tempted to cover blemishes with make-up and try to avoid heavy make-up all together.

How do You Treat and Prevent Acne?

1. Let blackheads and whiteheads heal themselves on their own. Picking at your skin causes further infection and is the leading cause of scarring.

2. Do not overdo your skin care routine with excessive washing. Blackheads appear dark because of oxidized sebum, not because they are filled with dirt and grime. If you wash and scrub your skin too often you can worsen your condition. Gently wash your face with warm water and adult acne products and pat dry.

3. It is important to use noncemdogenic skin care products because they do not cause or aggravate acne.

4. Find an skin care product that is appropriate for you. You should be aware of side effects, for example, sensitivity to the sun. It is important to be aware of this common effect and be sure to wear UV protection.

5. Try to stay away from extra treatments. Facials and other heavy spa therapies can exacerbate acne. It is smart to maintain a simple and successful natural skin care routine.

6. Keep your hands away from your face and your hair pulled back. Try to avoid anything that could make your face oilier.