4 Natural Ingredients That Help Treat Acne
In today’s landscape where sustainability and everything all-natural are the current trends, natural acne solutions are popping up more and more. The Internet is riddled with suggestions and solutions, but do these ingredients really work? Below, we expose some of the most popular natural ingredients, including tea tree and lactoferrin, that help treat acne.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is made by fermenting unfiltered pressed apple juice or apple cider. Similar to many other kinds of vinegar, ACV contains several organic acids that is known for its capability to treat different types of bacteria, including P. acnes. The succinic acid and lactic acid found in the solution are known to subdue inflammation and prevent scarring respectively.
A word of caution though, ACV has also been known to cause irritation and burns in high doses. To use it, mix 1 part Apple Cider Vinegar and 3 parts water (depending on the sensitivity of your skin.) After cleansing, gently apply the solution on the face and neck using a cotton pad. Let it sit for 5-20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil remains to be one of the most popular skincare solutions in the market, and for good reason! It comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree native to Australia. Its powerful, anti-bacterial, and all-natural properties are renowned for its ability to decrease skin inflammation and treat blemishes and skin imperfections.
Tea tree oil is also far less abrasive than other conventional acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide so you don’t have to worry about adverse effects like dryness, irritation, and burning.
Witch Hazel
Hamamelis Virginiana is the North American shrub where witch hazel is extracted from. It contains the star ingredient tannins which has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Witch Hazel can also be used to treat different skin conditions, including dandruff, eczema, and burns.
Witch Hazel works to deeply cleanse skin and soothe any irritations, while healing any damage from a previous breakout—making it an effective astringent and disinfectant in one. The best part is, it works on all skin types, thanks to its all-natural features.
Use it as you would use a toner: pour it onto a cotton pad and apply on the face and neck. It can also be applied throughout the day to rejuvenate the skin when it needs a quick refresh. Just pour some into a spray bottle and spritz away!
Lactoferrin
Bovine milk and human breast milk are some of the main sources of lactoferrin. It is a powerful iron-binding protein that boosts the body’s natural defenses against bacteria.
It is one of the main ingredients of Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc Lactezin–a clinically tested drug that helps treat acne. It also contains Vitamin E and zinc, two skin health-boosting ingredients.
Try incorporating Lactezin into your skincare routine! Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc is the generic name of Lactezin. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
SOURCES:
Evidence-based, article checked by Kayla McDonell, RD
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-acne-remedies
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