Acne Prone Skin Care

We all know what they're like: blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed red swellings under the skin that hurt just to look at them. Always popping up in places that you can't cover completely and appearing on days when you really want or need to look and feel great. Teens are expected to suffer the occasional blemish, but many of us experience full-blown acne well into our 20s and 30s.

Localized blemishes can be treated in many ways. A quick, easy, and inexpensive zit-zapper is toothpaste. Apply non-gel toothpaste directly to the affected spot, and it should dry out overnight. If you're a die-hard gel toothpaste fan and don't want to purchase a new tube of paste for a little pimple, dab a bit of lemon juice or Visine onto the blemish 3 or 4 times a day and you'll find that it really can "take the red out."

Cleansing Your Face

The best way to treat acne is prevention. Acne occurs when pores are clogged with bacteria. Keep in mind that when you clean your face, you are simply removing dirt and oil from the skin's surface. Washing your face six times a day will not prevent acne; in fact, you may aggravate the condition if you wash too vigorously or use the wrong type of cleanser. When you wash your face, gently massage the soapy lather onto your face with your fingertips using a rotating motion. Always use a mild soap or facial cleanser. Do not use a washcloth since it may irritate your face and, with frequent usage, accumulate bacteria that may further infect your skin. Rinse your face with warm water and gently pat your face dry with a clean soft towel.

Toning Your Face

Using a toner can help soothe your irritated, blemished skin. This easy Lemon Lavender Toner recipe can be whipped up in no time. Combine 4 drops of essential lavender oil with 4 drops of essential lemon oil and mix with 100 ml of spring water. We recommend that you dab on the toner with a cotton ball immediately after you cleanse your face in the morning and at night. You can also make a terrific toner out of basil leaves steeped in boiling water; we suggest a ratio of 3 tsp. of basil to 1 cup of water. After you've let the mixture cool and the leaves have settled to the bottom of the container, dab the liquid onto your face with a cotton ball.

For a wonderful smelling and edible facial, try our Honey Apple Facial below. Our Herbal Aloe Moisturizer is perfect for oily skin.

Honey Apple Facial

Mix 1 medium size grated apple and 4 tbsp. honey in a bowl. Smooth over skin and let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse well with cool water.

Herbal Aloe Moisturizer

Mix 1 oz. aloe vera gel, 1 drop tea tree essential oil, and 2 drops grapefruit essential oil in a small bowl. Apply moisturizer directly to skin; very sensitive skin should use aloe vera gel by itself.

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