The causes of acne can be complex, ranging from hormone imbalance to poor diet to poor skin care.
From a skin care point of view the answer is simple; keep skin as clean as possible, free from bacteria, excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that would otherwise clog pores, cause infection and lead to outbreaks.
Acne is not caused by unclean skin. But keeping skin clean is an important part of its control; however, we need to be thinking a little deeper than simple washing. Exfoliation is the next step.
Exfoliation simply means removing the surface layer (epidermis) of the skin to expose the new cells formed in the lower dermis. This shedding action has the effect of unclogging pores and removing imperfections. whilst at the same time, toning and brightening the skin by increasing circulation.
Exfoliation (or microdermabrasion) with a microfiber peel cloth is not only a safe and highly effective method of removing excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells, there are other benefits too, such as scar reduction and the increased production of collagen( a main connective tissue protein).
Microdermabrasion peel cloths are made up of ultra fine microfibers. Tiny fibres, woven together to form a unique cloth of microscopic wedge shaped filaments. Each filament has a nylon micro core that acts to lift and trap oil, dirt and debris, holding it like a magnet away from the skin surface. The result is exceptionally clean skin.
It is important to note that not all microfibers are suitable for skin use. Some have been developed for the domestic market. Be sure to use only cosmetic grade microfiber, (80% polyester,20% polyamide) that has been dermatologicaly tested and is therefore safe for use on even the most sensitive skins.
These unique fibres are very fine, each fiber no thicker than one hundredth the width of a human hair, with fibers finer than silk鈥he results are quite amazing.
Micro peel cloths are not a daily treatment, and although results are immediately visible, the trick is not to overdo it. It鈥檚 a process, and the recommended treatment is 1-3 minuets every 7 to 10 days, depending on skin sensitivity.
As mentioned earlier, although not perhaps the root of acne, bacteria and clogged pores are a primary causes for concern. The processes discussed here ensure we are not promoting an environment in which bacteria can flourish.
Microdermabrasion peel cloths, with there deep cleansing exfoliating properties provide a perfect means for keeping pores clear of microbes鈥?but why stop there?
If bacteria are the foe, then a natural product with powerful antibacterial properties could be just what鈥檚 needed鈥?br />
Honey 鈥re you aware of its amazing healing properties?
Honey has outstanding antibiotic and antibacterial properties, in fact most micro organisms cannot exist within it. It鈥檚 a real kryptonite for bacteria!
Honey has many supporters and is currently even being trailed in the fight against MRSA. But this is not a new story. This miracle of nature has been used as a treatment for wounds and skin ailments for over 2000 years. The ancient Egyptians had over 500 uses for healing honey, and today this inexpensive home treatment is just waiting for you to discover it!
Of the many types of honey and honey products available, raw honey is considered to be the best in terms of antibacterial content, and of the raw honeys without doubt the most interesting from our point of view is 鈥淢ANUKA 鈥?
Manuka honey as the name suggests is made from the flowers of the manuka bush (from New Zealand) and has been shown to contain a very high degree of healing properties apart from hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), common to all honey.
Manuka honey seems to contain an additional antimicrobial healing agent, termed UMF (unique manuka factor); it has proved to be effective against all infectious organisms, and is the recommended form to use.
As you can see the topical use of honey helps maintain a positive skin environment and makes a perfect partner for your home microdermabrasion treatment.
Here are some simple recipes for you to try鈥emembering that although nothing is guaranteed to work for everyone in every case, honey is totally safe and natural and therefore well worth trying. (If you can鈥檛 get manuka then simply use the honey available)鈥?You may be pleasantly surprised by the simple substance sitting on you kitchen shelf!
Raw honey Mask. Open the lid, grab a dollop, and smear it on! Leave on your skin for 20-30 minuets and rinse of with warm water. Can be used straight after micro peel cloth treatment.
Honey and Cinnamon Mask. Mix 3tbsp of honey and 1 tea spoon of cinnamon powder into a paste. Apply as a spot treatment and leave on overnight. Repeat daily for two weeks鈥?br />
Yogurt Honey and Oat Mask. Mix together 1 table spoon of honey 2tbsp natural yogurt and 1tbsp of oats. Apply to skin and allow to dry.
Honey and Apple Mask. Oily skin鈥lend 1 apple with 3table spoons of Manuka Honey in a blender until you has a smooth paste. Apply to your skin and leave for 20 minuets. (Refrigerate remainder and use within 3 days).
Honey, Egg and Glycerin Firming Mask. Wisk together 1 egg white 1tbsp of honey and 1 tea spoon of glycerin (available at any chemist). Add enough plain flour to make a paste. Apply to skin leave for 10-15 minuets.
The Two Part Treatment. 1. Mix together 陆 tbsp of honey, 2 sprinkles of salt and oregano leaves add 1 capful of vinegar and 陆 a finger of toothpaste. Gently massage this blend into clean washed skin and leave or 20- 30 minuets. 2. Remove with warm water and after 10 minuets apply plain toothpaste to acne affected areas and leave on overnight.
Honey and Almond Cleansing Mask. Mix 1tbsp of almond oil with 2tbsp of honey. If you have oily skin add a few drops of lemon juice (start with just a few drops) apply to clean skin and leave for 30 minuets. Can be used as a daily treatment. Keep refrigerated
These acne fighting recipes are simple and inexpensive and while honey can be slightly messy to use, the benefits will speak for themselves. 鈥?br />
Try the combination of healing honey and a home microdermabrasion cloth鈥ou could be well on your way to fabulous skin!