Almost half of the world population suffers from acne. It is little wonder then that the cosmetic industry is thriving even during the time of recession. Every cosmetic product available in the market is apparently formulated for treating acne. However, there is no way one can be sure of the claims made by the cosmetic brands as most of the anti-acne products are expensive. So, most of us suffering from acne often take to using cheaper quality products that might or might not be helpful. Some of us are even willing to try the craziest of natural remedies in order to treat acne.
What most of us miss out on is that like many disorders acne too can be cured by simply making changes in your diet. There are some very good over-the counter treatments available for acne. Even some of the home remedies for acne have been around for centuries. However, there is no guarantee that using either of the remedies will cure the acne completely or stop it from returning. The only way one can be sure of never getting acne again is by following a healthy diet.
There are specific foods that can help prevent and treat acne. In this article we will look at some of the beneficial foods and how they aid in treatment of acne.
Foods For Acne Prevention
Herbal Green Teas
Green teas are also known as organic teas or slimming teas. They are mainly used for weight loss purposes. However, green teas can also be used for correcting the skin blemishes and removing acne. Green tea is a rich source of catechins. Catechins is a chemical known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help in healing of the acne. Catechins is an antioxidant that fight the infection causing free radicals present in the body and on the skin. Antioxidants also help delay the signs of aging including formation of wrinkles.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is mainly used in cooking because of the presence of essential fatty acids in the oil that are good for lowering cholesterol level in the body. Oil is important for maintaining a healthy and glowing skin. Fat is required by the body for the maintenance of cell membranes and to keep the skin healthy from within. Consuming olive oil will ensure that you do not gain unnecessary weight and your skin also gets proper nourishment from the inside. Sesame oil is also as good for consumption as is olive oil but most people do not like the taste of sesame oil hence olive oil is a more popular choice.
Almonds
Almonds are rich source of Vitamin E. Vitamin E is very important for keeping the skin healthy and youthful. Many times doctors recommend rubbing vitamin E oil on the skin to repair and heal damaged tissues and cells. Consuming Vitamin E will keep the skin healthy from within and give it the ability to heal by itself. Eat a handful of almonds every day.
Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are antioxidants that have the power to fight the free radicals present in the atmosphere. The free radicals are responsible for causing various infections including acne. Omega-3 fatty acids are also responsible for keeping the skin plumped and elastic in order to maintain its youthful look. Eat three to four walnuts every day to keep the skin free from acne and wrinkles. Other foods rich in omega-3 oils are salmon and flax seed.
Berries
Berries of all types, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and even cherries, contain phytochemicals which are important for preserving the skin cells. It’s a good idea to eat the berries in their natural and fresh form rather than eating them from cans or tins. Tinned fruits do not have the same nutritious effect on the body as fresh fruits do.
Lemon Fruit
The juice of lemon has plenty of beneficial properties. It is used for weight loss, for curing acid reflux and even for treating acne. Direct application of lemon juice on the acne is known to dry the acne from deep within which helps the acne heal faster. Lemon juice is also helpful for fading acne scars since it has natural bleaching properties.
Squeeze lemon juice in a glass of cold water. Drink this glass of lemon juice water without adding honey or sugar to it. Do this first thing every day in the morning. The lemon juice will effectively flush out the toxins from the body. Removal of harmful toxins will give health to the body from within which will be reflected on the skin. Of course you should also continue with use of direct application of lemon juice on the skin to get rid of acne completely. Dilute the juice with a little water if you have extremely sensitive skin or if the acne is painful.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a fruit rich in water content. This is one of the reasons watermelon fruit and watermelon juice is used extensively in weight loss diets. However, watermelon is very beneficial for treating acne skin as well. Drink 2-3 glasses of watermelon juice every day to effectively flush out the harmful toxins from the body. The juice of watermelon also keeps the skin hydrated which is important for maintaining the suppleness and glow of the skin. Watermelon is rich in vitamins A, B and C, all of which are important for the upkeep of the skin.
Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products are beneficial for treating acne of the skin. Dairy products are rich in vitamin A and vitamin A is important for keeping the skin healthy and strong. Vitamin A helps the skin damaged by acne to heal faster from within. And taking vitamin A supplements will not have the same effect as regular intake of low-fat dairy products. Fruits like papaya are also rich source of Vitamin A. Direct application of the pulp of the fruit on the skin as well as consuming the fruit on a daily basis will help treat acne.
Water
Water has been described as the elixir of life. However, very few people are aware that this zero-calorie drink is very useful in treating acne. Drinking 10-12 glasses of water every day will flush out the harmful toxins and other waste products from the body. Removal of waste will keep the body healthy from inside. This health will be reflected in the form of clear and spotless skin on the outside. Water will also keep the skin from getting dehydrated and dull.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.