How to Reduce Pimples Naturally?

Pimples are small, red elevations or bumps on the skin's surface. The condition is temporary and generally not worrisome. Tiny pores on the skin get clogged with dirt, dead skin or excessive oil, which results in pimples. Maintaining proper hygiene and cleanliness is enough to avoid these. Some underlying factors that can result in pimple formation are hormonal imbalance, stress, and poor dietary habits. However, these pimples can sometimes get infected with bacteria, which may be concerning. In such cases, it becomes essential to seek medical supervision so that the condition does not get worse.

Natural Skincare Routine

Regular cleansing is the crucial and most important part of skincare, and following a natural skincare routine rather than using harsh chemicals is wise. 

So, a gentle, sulphate-free, gel-based, vitamin C-rich cleanser should be used based on the skin type. While a moderate cleansing is enough in the morning, the evening calls for a double cleanse. If there is makeup, then the face must be cleaned first with oil-based micellar water, followed by a gentle face wash. The products used for cleansing must be free of paraben, fragrance and alcohol. Depending on the skin type, a cleanser made with natural ingredients like chamomile, honey, or aloe vera can do wonders.

Exfoliation is another vital part of natural skincare. It should be done at least 2 to 3 times a week. This helps prevent clogging of the skin pores, removes dead skin cells, and promotes cell regeneration. However, excessive exfoliation can result in skin irritation and damage to the skin barrier. So, it is wise to use a natural scrub containing coffee grounds, ground oats or sugar to remove the dead skin cells.

Regular toning is also needed to keep the skin healthy. It helps to tighten the skin pores and maintain the skin's pH balance. Natural toners that can be used are rose water, green tea or witch hazel, depending on the skin type.

Moisturising is also essential to maintain a glowing skin. Applying natural moisturisers like aloe vera gel, shea butter, coconut, or jojoba oil based on the skin type prevents untimely ageing and the formation of pimples.

Dietary Changes to Combat Pimples

An irregular and unhealthy diet plays a vital role in the outburst of pimples. A healthy food choice can always help to avoid this condition. It reduces excessive oil production, controls blood sugar levels, helps prevent inflammation, and increases insulin levels, thus combating pimple formation.

Foods high in refined sugar and processed carbohydrates must be avoided. Also, it is wise to limit the intake of dairy products. Some foods to avoid are –

• Sugary drinks

• White bread

• White rice

• Pastries

• Fried foods

• Processed meats

• Shellfish

Just by changing one's dietary habits, one can get clear skin without any hassle. Foods that promote clear skin are –

• Whole grains

• Legumes

• Leafy green vegetables

• Fruits with high-fibre

• Omega-3 fatty acid-containing foods like fatty fish

• Nuts and seeds

Home Remedies for Reducing Pimples

Home remedies are more popular than harsh chemicals for reducing pimples. This is because natural ingredients have a gentle effect on the skin with minimal side effects compared to chemicals. Many of these ingredients have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and help reduce inflammation. Moreover, these remedies are readily available and pocket-friendly.

One of the most popular home remedies is aloe vera gel. It is wise to scrape the extract directly from aloe vera leaves and apply it on the face once or twice daily or as desired. However, the affected area must be cleaned with a gentle cleanser before using the gel. The gel should dry on the skin, followed by a regular skincare routine.

Another home remedy is a honey and cinnamon mask. To prepare the mask, 1 to 2 tablespoons of honey is to be mixed with ½ to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. The mixture should be stirred until smooth and then applied on the individual blemishes or the entire face, avoiding the area around the eyes. This pack should be allowed to dry for 10 to 20 minutes, followed by a rinse with lukewarm water.

Essential Oils and Their Benefits

Essential oils are natural plant extracts that contribute primarily to the maintenance of healthy skin if applied appropriately and hygienically. These help in relaxing the skin, making it glow and shine. Some commonly used essential oils are tea tree oil and lavender oil.

The benefits of tea tree oil are –

• Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties

• Helps cleanse the pores

• Helps in keeping the skin hydrated

• Relieves itchiness and redness

• Treat severe skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

• Acts as a natural deodorant

The benefits of lavender oil are –

• It has a soothing effect on the skin

• Rich in antioxidants that can prevent skin damage

• Stimulates skin healing

• It can clear the pores and cleanse the skin

• Combats eczema and dry skin

• It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help in healing pimples

• Reduces the blemishes and scars

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle modifications are also essential to prevent pimple formation. Too much stress triggers the cortisol hormone production, resulting in excessive oil production and clogging of pores. So, practising regular stress management techniques becomes essential. The methods for that are yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises. Additionally, inadequate sleep can also contribute to stress and hormonal balance. So, sufficient sleep is needed to prevent pimples. Generally, 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night is considered healthy.

The Role of Hydration

To maintain glowing and clear skin, proper hydration is essential. It provides adequate moisturisation to the skin and maintains its pH balance. Proper hydration ensures that toxins and other impurities that could have contributed to forming the pimples are flushed out. A dehydrated skin produces excessive oil that can clog the skin pores. So, drinking enough water is important to maintain the skin's elasticity for a clear and healthy complexion. Proper hydration also prevents breakage of the skin barrier and does not let the skin become dry or itchy.

Skin can be hydrated topically as well. Various lotions, ointments, creams, and gels are available. However, these must be chosen based on one's skin type. Otherwise, one can easily avoid pimple formations by using lukewarm water, limiting bath time, using an allergen-free moisturising soap, and wearing skin-friendly fabrics.

Avoiding Pimple Triggers

Certain poor and unhygienic daily habits can trigger pimple formation. So, some healthy practices that can avoid this exacerbation are –

• Refraining from touching the face frequently

• Cleaning the face regularly

• Using clean towels

• Keeping the phone screen clean

• Changing pillowcases frequently

• Taking a shower after exercise

Certain chemicals can also aggravate pimples. The products to be avoided are –

• Parabens

• Synthetic fragrances

• Mineral oil

• Lanolin

• Propylene Glycol

• Heavy oils

The Effectiveness of Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements are quite effective in combating the outburst of pimples as they have antibacterial and hormone-balancing properties. They become more valuable when clubbed with lifestyle changes like routine skincare and a healthy, balanced diet. Some common herbal supplements and their usage are –

• Turmeric Supplements: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These fight pimple formation and reduce the inflammation of the skin.

• Green Tea Extract: The primary component of green tea extract is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which controls oil production, protects bacteria and helps prevent pimples.

Conclusion

Pimple formation is harmless yet concerning as it mainly affects the face. Though temporary and self-resolving, this should not be neglected. With regular skincare and lifestyle changes, it is possible to manage and cure pimples. Also, dietary changes are important as food can trigger pimple flare-ups. Lastly, hydration flushes out the toxins, guaranteeing glowing skin. To sum up, people with a holistic approach can easily defeat pimples and enjoy healthy skin.

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