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5 Natural and Not-So-Natural Acne Treatments You Can Do at Home

By: Jim DeSantis Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Chances are we know someone who wants to find ways to be completely acne-free. Possibly, even you need to find an effective solution to recurring acne and it seems there are thousands of products and systems that promise easy results. Well, hang onto your money for now and read about these natural and not-so-natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective.

Finding simple and low-cost solutions to treat or prevent acne from becoming a severe affliction should always be your first step. All but one of these solutions are available just about anywhere you shop for over-the-counter drugs and medicines, while one of them you can actually grow and process yourself.

1. Witch Hazel - Thank You Mother Nature!

Mother Nature has given us the With Hazel plant that contains natural healing properties. If not, take a trip to your grocery store and pick them up to give yourself super-cheap severe acne treatments.

... The healing juices from whole oranges and lemons is one of these super-foods that have healing properties. Simply apply the juice of your choice to your pimples or zits, let sit for about 30 minutes, wash off with plain water.

... Whole garlic does more than chase vampires away. It has healing properties because it kills acne-causing-bacteria. Peel a garlic toe and rub it on your acne. Rinse with warm water after about an hour or so.

... A slice from a whole potato is another excellent remedy for severe acne. Just cut a slice and rub it on the affected area. Once the juice dries, rinse with warm water.

4. Prescription Solutions

In the not-so-natural category, we cannot ignore medically necessary solutions by prescription from your doctor or dermatologist. If you suffer from severe acne, you may need an antibiotic taken by mouth. Specific antibiotics can attack bacteria known to cause acne and mitigate the body's production of white blood cells that may be contributing to the problem. White blood cells rush to the affected areas and can over-produce chemicals that actually create irritation. Your doctor or skin care specialist can prescribe the right medicine and dosage.

Tetracycline is the preferred antibiotic for severe acne because it has a proven track record of success. Again, follow instructions when taking any medicine. The usual precautions are: Take with food and use the entire course even though you may see improvement quickly. Tetracycline is not to be taken by pregnant women or children under the age of 9. Dosage is determined by the severity of your skin problem.

For women who are pregnant, there is an effective antibiotic: Erythromycin. While it is very effective in combating acne-bacteria, the side effects may include some stomach distress, however, in addition to fighting bacteria it is also an anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and irritation. Ask your health professional about what is available and the side effects of any medication.

5. Rub The Cream On Top

You should also consider topical creams and lotions that are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Many of these can very effective in severe cases. They are applied directly to the affected areas but do have the tendency to cause drying and flaking of the skin. As always, your doctor or dermatologist knows what might work best for you.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: You need not settle for a life of bad skin! Discover many more natural acne treatments! Visit the Simple Acne Cures blog for more helpful acne home remedies, tips, and tricks. For reviews of the top three natural acne treatments, also visit the Natural Acne Cures website.