Are There Side-Effects To Non-Natural Acne Treatments? Many People Need To Know
Acne is the most common of all skin disorders. Normally presented as pimples, blackhead, and whiteheads, acne mostly affects the face, neck, back and chest of those who suffer. The condition initially strikes teens, affecting 3 out of 4 teenagers, and can be anywhere from mild to severe. Acne is not only a teenage affliction, however. Adult onset acne affects 25% of adult men, and 50% of adult women at some point. As such a prevalent disease, it’s no wonder so many have asked the question, “Are There Side-Effects To Non-Natural Acne Treatments?”.
Acne is not only a social bane for sufferers, it can result in permanent scars in severe cases. These scars are created as the wound attempts to heal itself, resulting in too much collagen in a single spot. Acne scars are called “Icepick” scars because they cause indentations in the surface of the skin.
There are many treatments on the market for this pervasive health problem. Non-natural acne treatments available over the counter in the form of lotions, cleansers, and gels, have side effects. They can irritate or burn the skin, and cause the skin to become reddened. This is probably caused by the alcohol contained in most of these solutions.
If you seek help from your doctor, he will likely suggest a prescription medication, which probably will have even more serious side effects. Antibiotics are traditionally prescribed to treat stubborn acne. Continual use of antibiotics can stain the teeth permanently, and even cause cavities. Additional side effects include light sensitivity, skin rashes, autoimmune disorders, abnormal skin pigmentations, and gastrointestinal afflictions. Frequent or extended use of antibiotics can lead to the bacteria’s resistance to treatment. This could put you at risk for future infections. Also, antibiotics render birth control pills less effective, making it necessary to use a secondary method of birth control.
Because of the extensive list of side effects, many people are choosing to shun the non-natural acne treatment. Acne sufferers have a number of effective home remedies to choose from. For instance, lemon or orange juice can act as an astringent. Simply apply with cotton balls or a clean, soft cloth.
Filled with sulfur – an excellent natural antibiotic, fresh garlic is a surprisingly effective treatment for acne. Slice a clove of garlic in half and rub it gently over the affected area. Alternatively, you can smash the clove and steep it in very warm water, then apply the water with a cotton ball or clean cloth.
It seems unexpected that raw potatoes are actually good for the skin. Filled with sulfur (that natural antibiotic), as well as phosphorus, potassium, starch, and Vitamin C, you can simply cut the potato and apply it to your face. If you need rapid relief, try grating the potato pulp, then applying to the affected area.
Witch Hazel is a natural astringent produced from the plant by the same name. This amazing solution was historically used by the Native American Indians to treat sprains, strains, bruises, and even bleeding and internal injuries. We now use Witch Hazel to treat acne, minor skin irritation and itching, and eye injuries. Because Witch Hazel has both healing and treatment properties, it is effective in reducing inflammation, quickly healing skin problems and effectively treating minor burns.