These are some of the best and most popular tanning lotions available on the market.

Supre Cafe Bronzer: This dark tanning maximizer is from Supre, a two-in-one formula combining dark tan maximizers with self-tanning bronzers. Caf Bronzer is formulated from a special blend of coffee bean extracts, Vitamin E and C, with Supres own Skin Stimulation System and Biotan technology to help stimulate micro-circulation for maximum tanning results, and Skin Recovery System to help stimulate skin recovery from UV exposure. The lotion is specially designed for “Advanced Tanners”, and costs around $40.

Pro Tan Sunny Day Self Tanner: This product contains ingredients such as aloe vera gel, soybean oil, vitamin A, Vitamin E, kola and green tea extract, red clover and green tea extract etc, and is designed to even out, deepen and prolong existing tan. It costs about $14.

St. Tropez Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion: This aloe vera based lotion is non-greasy, non-streaking and quick drying, which intensifies over 3 hours. The lotion is claimed to actually hide stretch marks, varicose veins, and vitiligo, which can be custom blended with St. Tropez Body Moisturizer to your own desired shade. The Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion costs around $30.

Jan Tana Maximum Tan Accelerator Lotion: In order to a quick, deep dark tan, this Tan Accelerator combines three accelerators to create triple action tanning. It also contains moisturizers, vitamins and collagen to nourish the skin and help prevent premature aging. Originally formulated for indoor use but can be used outdoor with a base tan. The product costs around $35.

Forman Tanning Lotion: A product from John Abate, this tingling maximizer is created and scented exclusively for men, and users with established base tans. The light tingling and/or subtle sensation or flush, that may be experienced while using the product, indicates an improvement in skin microcirculation and cell oxygenation-essentials to achieving a great tan. Forman costs around $20.

Tan Accelerating Lotion: This is a product from Body Drench combines tan development moisturizing, and is formulated with ingredients such as Unipertan V-24 to provide essential nutrients for optimum tanning while it binds moisture to promote elasticity and fight aging. It costs around $25.

Thalgo Self-Tanning Scintillating Lotion: This contains iridescent pigments to illuminate the skin, and tanning agent (DHA) Erythrulose which unifies and prolongs tan. Its subtle tanning effect is best for fair to medium skin types, designed to maintain a natural, golden complexion. The manufacturer recommends exfoliating before using the product.

The Scintillating Lotion costs around $35.

Black Onyx: Manufactured by Power Tan, the Black Onyx is formulated from a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ivy and licorice extracts for a reddening effect that helps speed delivery of nutrients to the skin. The oil-free formula also contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Pycnogenol, and Aloe Vera to combat aging. Other ingredients include Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Menthol help cool your body and neutralize body odor. It costs around $40.

Lavera Self Tanning Lotion: Formulated from certified organic extracts and essential oils such as organic Jojoba oil, Aloe vera, Rose and Lavender waters, and anti-aging Green tea extract, this tanning lotion contains ingredients such as DHA and Erythrulose, and no harmful artificial ingredients or chemicals. The Self Tanning Lotion costs around $25.

Natural skin care products provide an excellent alternative to many beauty and skin products found on the market. We often don’t realize how many chemicals and toxins are being absorbed into our bodies through skin care and hair care products. Shampoos, make-up, perfumes, facial cleansers, and even baby care products often contain harmful chemicals that can irritate our skin, dry it out, or cause premature aging. That’s why so many people are choosing natural skin care products.

Benefits of Natural Skin Care Products

There are many benefits of organic skin care because true all-natural products contain no harmful chemicals or additives. If you have allergies, recurring skin rashes (or eczema), itchy or dry skin, or even very oily skin, then you might be worsening the problem by using products with certain chemicals and additives. Organic skin care provides a natural way for you to cleanse your skin and hair, enhance your beauty with cosmetics, and even protect your skin from the sun. If you have very sensitive skin, natural hair care and skin care products might even help prevent outbreaks of rashes or skin redness and irritation.

The skin absorbs most anything that it comes in contact with, including any chemicals found in beauty products. With all-natural products, your skin will absorb the organic ingredients more quickly and with more positive results. Absorbing organic products can actually enhance your skin and health, and your body can process the ingredients in a more efficient way.

If you have a baby or small child, their skin is extremely delicate. You can select natural baby care products for their shampoos, lotions, powders, and soaps.

Ingredients found in Organic Products

Common ingredients found in natural skin care products include oatmeal, aloe vera, hemp seed, virgin olive oil, sunflower seed oil, primrose extract, essential oils, cucumber, shea butter, collagen, and many other natural ingredients and extracts. These all have different purposes such as adding moisture and much-needed minerals to your skin and hair, reducing wrinkles, stretch-mark reduction, dead skin removal, sun protection, and moisturizing the lips.

Types of Natural Beauty Products

With the increasing demand for all-natural or organic products, there are now many companies that specialize in organic products, whether it’s food and beverages or natural hair care and skin care products. Some of the beauty products available include natural soaps for babies and adults, organic make-up foundation and finishing powders, all-natural shampoos and conditioners, facial cleansers and toners, bath salts, organic oils for skin, bath scrubs, facial masks, anti-wrinkle creams, shaving soaps, natural lotions, soothing gels, and even organic lamps for aromatherapy. There are also many natural men’s skin care products and natural baby care products.

How to Buy All-Natural Products

You can find organic skin and hair care products at your local herbal or organic store. But the easiest way to find specific products for your needs is to shop online. There are hundreds of organic skin care products online and you can often find these at very affordable prices. You can easily search for specific products that will help your skin and hair type. These products also make great gifts for birthdays, Christmas, or any occasion.

Your entire family from the youngest to the eldest can benefit from natural skin care products, and you’ll each enjoy healthier, more radiant skin and hair!

Tanned skin is loved by most of the white skinned people. Who will say that he/she does not like tanned skin? What about the cost of getting tanned skin? I am not talking in term of dollars, but life. It is death due to skin cancer. There are many ideas about tanning that people believe and think that they are safe. Let us talk about them.

Many of us believe that use of tanning oils on skin and then getting tanned is safe. But that is not true. No tanning oil prevents the sun. If it had prevented sun, you would not have got tanned! Tanning skin is only due to the UV radiation and radiation damages and causes skin cancer.

A swim after tanning skin protects the skin. This is another belief of many people. Please note that no amount of swimming after getting tanned saves the skin. Once the skin gets tanned, it is damaged. Swimming without application of a sunscreen is very bad because water reflects more UV radiation. The radiation near the beach is more than on the ground away from beach.

Skin that is tanned is in danger. Protect your life by avoiding all types of tanning. Use tanning cosmetics to get artificial color if you want, but dont damage your skin with tan. Tanning beds, sun lamps and sun all are bad for skin.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

Looking for that perfect skin product? One that will keep your skin looking great, smells great, is appealing to apply, has actual ‘therapeutic’ effects, and doesn’t break the bank? Look no further than aromatherapy. Creating a wonderful blend just for your skin type with the magic of potent natural botanicals is fun and rewarding in more ways than one. Essential oils are widely used in natural medicine, and some are well-known for their skin rejuvenating effects.

While some of the most highly regarded therapeutic grade oils may seem expensive at first, they are effective in such small concentrations as to really make them worthwhile. And their efficacy is well-known; that’s why so many laboratory-made preparations use components of essential oils in their formulas. With a one or two ounce bottle to mix in, and an eye dropper, you can easily mix your own blend with the aroma and actions you desire most.

There are a few essential oils most often used in skin care recipes you can pick and choose from among these depending on your desired results. Other essential oils may be added to enhance the aroma of your blend; many oils used to do so are also are know to relieve tension or bring about a healthy state of mind and most natural clinicians will tell you that beauty starts from the inside-out. So make something you love the smell of that also helps your skin glow!

These few primary skin care oils include the following: Helichrysum italicum the oil of this flower is one of the most highly regarded in aromatherapy for it’s great versatility. It has a pleasant aroma, it contains rare ‘di-ketones’ which stimulate the skin’s natural metabolism, and is a powerful anti-inflammatory (all tissue damage and aging is associated with inflammation on a cellular level). Lavender oil ‘true’ or ‘French’ Lavender is the most used oil in aromatherapy today because of it’s great multitude of effects. Like Helichrysum, it contains regenerative ketones; it reduces inflammation; it speeds wound healing; AND it has an aroma very well known for its relaxing effects easing tension while healing your skin could you ask for more? Next up is Rosemary of the ‘verbenone’ type. It also contains ketones (that the cineol type does not) and is known as a circulatory and metabolism stimulant, increasing the flow of nutrients in, and waste products out, of your skin cells. Palmarosa essential oil is included in many blends for it’s gentle cleansing and antiseptic properties. And last but not least, Carrot Seed oil is the premier oil for regenerating tired, lifeless skin often a result from too much stress or high levels of pollutant exposure.

There are several other oils with positive effects on the skin (some will be mentioned in the blends below), these just happen to be the most often used. With research, you can find essential oils that will address particular skin conditions that are not covered here. Further, there are in fact hundreds of essential oils available, each with it’s own unique composition and aroma. Adding a little to your blends simply for their fragrance influence is highly recommended. A few drops of precious oils like Jasmine, Neroli, Sandalwood or Rose can create that aromatic combination you simply love, and will want to wear all the time.

The essential oils are almost never applied to the skin undiluted (Lavender is a rare exception). Instead, they are added to what are known as ‘carrier’ or ‘base’ oils. Diluting the essential oil in carrier not only stretches your dollar, but the oils actually are more effective this way! Research has shown that most essential oils have the most dramatic therapeutic effects at concentrations of less than 5% of the total blend. And the carriers have their own positive effects; besides helping your skin absorb the essential oils, they provide nutrients such as essential fatty acids, and vitamin compounds which enhance the skin’s health.

Some of the more commonly used carrier oils in skin care are as follows: First is Hazelnut oil pressed from, obviously, Hazelnuts. This is considered the most gentle of the carrier oils, suitable for all skin types. It often serves as the primary base oil in blends, making up a majority of the mixture. Next is Rosehip seed oil, pressed from Rosehip seeds grown in the mountains of South America. This well researched oil not only has a wealth of essential fatty acids, but contains trans-retinoic acid, a compound similar to the active ingredient of Retin-A (a well known wrinkle cream), but without the drying side effects. Lastly we’ll mention Evening Primrose oil, often included in blends for aging skin and for eczema it has one of the highest known concentrations of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid which may be crucial to optimal health.

So there are the primary ingredients, and the reasons behind them. With these, and a few of your own personal touches, you can create a great variety of blends. To go ahead and start mixing, acquire a one or two ounce dark glass bottle to mix in, an eye dropper and a small funnel (you don’t NEED this, it just makes the whole process a lot less messy). For the first recipe, we’ll start with a blend that’s for daily use for all skin types. It’s created to give the skin health and vitality, while keeping it clean and beautiful: Pour one ounce of Hazelnut oil into your mixing bottle (double all the ingredients if you’d like to make two ounces). Add fifteen drops (about 2/3rds of a milliliter) Thyme essential oil of the Linalool chemotype (be sure to get this kind, as other types of Thyme are to strong to use on the skin). The add fifteen drops each of Rosemary verbenone, Neroli (or a high-quality Petitgrain distilled from the same plant as Neroli with a lower cost), Spike Lavender (almost a cross between true lavender and sage excellent for it’s antiseptic properties). While originally created as an acne-clearing blend, it did so well for so many folks it is now used as a basis for healthy ‘normal’ skin as well.

For overly sensitive and damaged skin (from chemicals or other means) and for skin with weak capillaries (showing spider veins may be a symptom), start with a 5:1:1 ratio of Hazelnut, Rosehip Seed and Evening Primrose oils (3/5 ounce Hazelnut, and 1/5th each of the other oils). Add fifteen drops each of German Chamomile, Helichrysum italicum, true Lavender, and Roman Chamomile. This blend will enhance the regenerative capability of the skin through the action of the Helichrysum and Rosehip seed, provides nutrients through in the Rosehip seed and Evening Primrose, and reduces the inflammation which accompanies any type of damage and aging.

For clearing excessively oily and acne-prone skin, to one oz. of Hazelnut oil, add fifteen drops each of Myrtle essential oil (use the green, rather than red, variety), Eucalyptus Dives, Spike Lavender, and Rosemary verbenone. The Myrtle is special in that it dissolves the sebum clogging skin pores, and the Eucalyptus calms the output of the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands.

If your skin has no particular ‘condition’, but appears tired, lifeless, pallid, or ‘worn out’, try mixing one-fifth ounce of Rosehip Seed and four-fifths ounce Hazelnut oil. Then add 15 drops each of Carrot Seed essential oil (also known as Queen Anne’s Lace or Wild Carrot), Lemon verbena (which helps the skin detoxify), Niaouli (gently tightening the skin), and Rosemary verbenone this creates an excellent restorative blend. For aging skin needing firming that can be used around the eyes try this more gentle variety: Mix in five ounces of Hazelnut oil and one ounce of Rosehip seed oil, add fifteen drops of each of Myrtle essential oil (green), Cistus or Rock Rose and Rosemary.

So there are a few tried-and-true aromatherapy skin care blends to use in your natural beauty regime. You can easily mix and match the oils described to create your own blend, and add any oils you really like the aroma of (be aware that a FEW essential oils are VERY strong, and should not be used on the skin the more common of these include Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano, and Red Thyme consult with a knowledgeable practitioner if you are unsure about the safety of any oil). A word about purchasing oils for your blends do NOT use anything labeled as a ‘fragrance oil’ these are synthetic reproductions of essential oils that will likely cause an allergic reaction. DO seek out a reputable source. And oils, like wine, do vary greatly from maker to maker. A higher price can mean a significantly nicer oil (though not always) one that is sweeter, or more well-rounded only a few oils should smell ‘medicinal’ Spike Lavender is a little ‘camphorus’ in general but a good Rosemary verbenone should have a very appealing scent . Despite the initial outlay, you are more likely to continue to use a blend that you really like the aroma of, and that has therapeutic effects. Though once you find the oils you adore, you’re more than likely to continue the practice of making your own blends for some time to come.

Scents play a big role in our lives. Some fragrances may recall memories or transmit sensations. Who has not felt better after going to sauna with eucalyptus smell? Or associated flowers` scents to the feelings of calm and peace? Aromatherapy took advantage of this basic human instinct to treat diseases, provide well being, skin care and relaxation. It can be defined as the therapeutic use of essential oils for prevention and/or auxiliary treatment of physical, psychological and energetic problems.

The true Aromatherapy consists on the therapeutic application of 100% essential oils in baths, massages, compresses, diffusions, internal use, etc. Before being used, the essential oils are frequently dissolved in neutral lotions such as vegetal oils, cereal water or cereal alcohol. This preserves chemical properties and chemical/physical activity in the human body.

According to “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils”, the favored technique of aroma therapists is the massage, because it ensures that the oils are absorbed in the skin and into the blood stream. On this method, the essence is diluted into base oil (jojoba, avocado, peanut, soy, peach kernel oil, etc). Another book, “Aromatherapy: Healing for the Body & Soul”, emphasizes the importance of rubbing the oil in the skin. The author, Kathi Keville, claims that the human touch warms the body, relieves stress, relaxes and encourages deep breathing.

Benefits
Aromatherapy is known for bringing well-being and stress relieve to people, but this is only one of its possible benefits. This therapy can affect the body chemistry; the emotions and attitudes; and the ability of the body to function. The book “Aroma Therapy: Healing for the body and soul” cites a wide range of therapeutical uses for Aromatherapy:

- Reduction of pain, inflammations and spasms;
- Stimulation of the immune system, hormone production and blood circulation;
- Skin infections;
- Heal of respiratory and digestive problems;
- Emotional problems, like depression and panic.

Precautions
Some essential oils, like camphor, thuja and red thyme, can cause damage to the patients due to their high toxicity levels, which can cause severe dermal irritation. Essential oils should not be applied directly at the skin; they should be diluted in a carrier oil or cream. It is also suggested to do a patch test on the skin before using the essential oil, because some people can be very sensitive or have allergic reactions. Some oils, like the lemon and the verbena, when exposed to the sun, may cause spots.

The “Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils” warns that pregnant patients or the ones who have diabetes, high blood pressure and epilepsy can not be massaged with some essential oils. It is recommended that they inform the therapist about their condition. It also adverts that essential oils should not be used at home to treat serious medical or psychological problems.

Oils properties
The oils have different properties. Some of the most common essential oils are:

Calming – chamomile, lavender, geranium;
Uplifting – ylang ylang, clary sage, rose, neroli, lemon, fennel;
Energizing – rosemary, thyme (white), grapefruit, cinnamon;
Cleansing – rosemary, tea tree, lavender; frankincense;
Decongesting – eucalyptus, pine, tea tree, peppermint;

Profession
Although nowadays Aromatherapy has become a widespread practice around the world, it is still considered a complementary medicine in the majority of the countries. In France, Aromatherapy is part of the formal education in Medical schools. During history, medicinal and aromatic plants were used to purify and scent places, scare away evil spirits, treat skin and other physical disorders as in the use of infusions, in the mummification process in ancient Egypt and Roman baths.

According to The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), the organization that promotes and supports the practice of this method, there is no licensure or laws for Aromatherapy in the US. NAHA determined that to become an aroma therapist is necessary to be graduated in a course of at least 200 hours. Some professionals incorporate the training of this technique with their licensed work. It is the case of many massage therapists, acupuncturists, doctors and nurses.

Are Natural skin care products the answer to all problems?

When it comes to skin care products, you will find that a lot of people are very particular about using only natural skin care products. They treat all the synthetic products as harmful to the skin.

So, are natural skin care products the answer to all of our problems? What if a natural skin care product is not available for the treatment of a particular skin disorder? Are the synthetic skin care products so harmful that they should be banned?

Different people have different answers to these questions. However, the reality is that due to presence of synthetic preservatives, its really tough to find a natural skin care product that is 100% natural. There are natural skin care products that have natural preservatives, but their cost might be detrimental. Moreover, such natural skin products have a shorter shelf life and hence are not preferred by the manufacturers of natural skin care products.

Some people carry a wrong notion that since natural skin care products are natural, they cannot cause any harm to the skin. The suitability of a skin care product is not based on whether it is synthetic or natural. An unsuitable natural skin care product can harm you in almost the same way as a synthetic one. So, use natural skin care products, but be open to synthetic ones too (you might need them when a natural solution is not available)

Your selection of a natural skin care product should be based on 3 factors:

1. The skin type (dry, oily, normal, sensitive) of the person who will use that natural skin care product
2. The climatic conditions in which it will be used e.g. hot and humid condition would warranty the use of oil-free natural skin care products.
3. The process for application/use of the natural skin care product. A good natural skin care product (in fact any product) can seem useless if not used in the proper way.

You can also make natural skin care products by yourself, by using the recipes that are readily available on the internet and in the books at book stores.

Use of organic fruits and vegetables is also popular as a natural skin care procedure. Some essential oils, herbal oils, are useful too and are known for their moisturising and antiseptic properties

However, using a natural skin care product does not mean that you can exercise carelessness with other aspects of skin care. Natural skin care products should be used like supplements to the following essential recommendations: healthy eating habits (avoiding oily food), regular exercise, drinking a lot of water (8 glasses everyday), and cleanliness. This will then form a perfect and completely natural skin care routine that will help maintain a healthy beautiful skin for longer time.

Find more on skin care here: skin care tips.

Acupressure is one the oldest Chinese traditions used to cure many of our health problems. It involves use of pressure by your hand, elbow and other means. This form of healing has been in existence for more than 5,000 years. A technique recommended by many and has been used world over. It is a simple method if you know how to do it. Acupuncture is another practice wherein needles are used on the pressure points to cure ailments.

How does Acupressure work?

Acupressure is a plain and simple science which has helped many people. Our body has many different pressure points. By applying pressure on these points, it energizes the necessary organs, which leads to healing of the ailing body. The idea behind acupressure is harmony of mind and soul. The relief it provides by the simple touch and pressure can be turn around in their life.

It helps in resurfacing the lost and blocked energy in the curvatures of your body. There is a belief that our body gets charged by the ‘Qi’ pronounced as ‘Chi’. The energy moves along the surfaces of our bodies known as ‘meridians’. Applying pressure does all trick sending energy to places where it has been stuck for a very long time.

Two common ways of doing acupressure are the ‘Shiatsu’ and the ‘Jin Sin’. Shiatsu is the common therapy which uses immense pressure, whereas Jin Shin is the gentler form of acupressure that uses soft touch and gentle strokes. Irrespective of the techniques of acupressure, the basic aim is to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Benefits of Acupressure

It is a very easy process and can be learnt without much difficulty. The best way to learn acupressure is to try it on oneself. Some of the common benefits which acupressure provides us are:

1. Relaxes your mind and body
2. Increases blood circulation
3. Relieves from stress related problems like fatigue, insomnia
4. Heals injuries
5. Helps with Menopause and PMS
6. Helps in relieving joint aches and pains
7. Acts as a first aid in case of injury
8. Builts in vigor
9. Reduces labor pain
10. Cures common illnesses like cold, sinusitis, migraine
11. Relaxes the muscular tension
12. Helps in improving muscle strength and tone

Precautions

- Learn acupressure from a thorough professional
- While practicing on yourself, have someone around you
- Avoid open wounds, surgery, broken bone, skin infection and other problems
- Prevent specific pressure points during pregnancy
- Avoid acupressure on full stomach
- Avoid cold drinks especially during winter
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Do acupressure for a limited period of time do not overdo it

Acne is a very common skin problem which affects young people at their puberty and few adults till they reach 45. Acne are referred as Youvana pitikas (which means the eruptions of youth) in ayurveda. This shows the prevalence of acne from ages. Ayurveda has described the causes of acne and recommends the best natural herbal acne remedies too.

What causes acne?

A large number of oil producing glands called sebaceous glands are present under the skin on face, back, chest and shoulders. During puberty or menopause due to the influence of the sex hormones, which are produced in male and female, these glands become more active and produce an oily secretion called sebum. The sebum makes the skin more oily .The excessive sebum clogs the skin pore or the pit of the hair follicle forming acne.The blocked pore or acne acts as an excellent habitat for bacteria. The bacterial infection causes inflammation (red, painful swelling of the infected area) of the clogged pore or hair follicle leading to eruption of pimples.

Vata and Kapha are two main doshas, which are involved in eruption of acne and pimples. Rakta dhatu or blood also plays an important role in formation of acne.

Vata when gets vitiated due to unhealthy diet and lifestyles affects other two doshas (kapha and pitta) to aggravate them. Aggravated pitta affects rakta dhatu or blood. The vitiated blood affects the skin and causes excess secretion of oil from sebaceous glands. Kapha has sticky property. The aggravated kapha imparts the stickiness to the oil produced by sebaceous glands of skin. Thus the thick sebaceous plugs are formed in skin pores and hair follicles leading to eruption of acne.

Acne worsens when

1.grease, dirt or other harsh chemicals accumulate on skin.

2.you have Increased stress levels.

3.you indulge in Squeezing or pinching of acne.

4.when there are hormonal imbalances during menstrual cycle, menopause and puberty.

5.you are under medications like steroids or hormonal therapy.

Precautions to be taken to avoid exaggeration of acne eruptions:

Avoid foods which are spicy, dry and oily. These may cause indigestion and lead to vitiation of vata.

Keep a habit of emptying bowels regularly this always normalizes vata.

Avoid fast foods and soft drinks.

Wash your face twice daily with mild cleanser.

Put a hair band to avoid falling of hair on face. The sweat and dirt accumulated on hair may fall on facial skin through hair strands

Avoid application of scrubs.

Wash your hair regularly with mild shampoo to keep it clean and avoid dandruff.

Squeezing and pricking of pimples cause scaring. Hence avoid this

Avoid exposure of skin to severe climatic conditions.

Avoid oil based moisturizers. Water based moisturizers are always beneficial.

Drink plenty of water.

Practice a regular exercise regimen

Natural Herbal acne Home remedies :

Wash your face with lukewarm water and mild soap twice a day.

Wash fresh methi leaves (fenu greek leaves) and grind it to make a paste. Apply it on face and wash it off with lukewarm water after 10 minutes.

Grind juicy tender neem leaves with turmeric to a consistency of paste. Apply this paste on acne and pimples. Wash this off after it dries.

Apply a face pack of ripe tomato pulp and wash it off as soon as it dries naturally (preferably after 45 minutes) .

Do not keep the make up while sleeping. Cleanse it with a mild herbal cleanser.

Mix besan flour (gram flour) with rose water and apply a face pack.

Consuming fresh vegetable salads and fresh fruits keeps the skin healthy and resistant to blemishes.

Drink plenty of water (15 glasses a day)

Acne is a skin disorder resulting from the actions of hormones and other substances on skins oil glands and hair follicles. These things often lead to plugged pores and outbreak of lesions more commonly known as pimples and zits. Acne lesions basically occur on the face, back, chest, neck and shoulders. Thus acne is a term for plugged pores [blackheads and whiteheads], pimples and even deeper lumps [cysts and nodules] that appear in different parts of the body.

How does acne develop?

Acne is a disease of the pilosebaceous units [PSUs], which consists of sebaceous glands connected to a canal, called a follicle that contains a layer of fine hair. These sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum that normally empties onto the skin through the opening of the follicles. When the walls of this plugged follicle breaks down, it starts spilling everything like sebum, bacteria and shed skin cells, thereby leading to lesions and pimples.

Factors that make acne worse

Although the exact cause of acne is still unknown, but doctors have a strong belief that they result from various factors. One of the main factors include sudden burst of androgens that occur more during puberty. The factors of acne include heredity or genetics. Children usually have a tendency of getting acne from their parents and often get affected due to usage of drugs like androgens and lithium.

However, there are several factors that can make acne worse:

Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women
Excess secretion of oil after using of skin products like moisturizers and cosmetics.
Pressure from tight collars, tight sports uniform and backpacks
Environmental irritants like pollution and high humidity
Hard scrubbing of skin
Squeezing or picking at blemishes
Stress and anxiety

Types of acne

People suffering from acne can basically have a variety of lesions that can act as a detriment to the skin.

Following are the types of acne:

Comedo an enlarged and plugged hair follicle that mainly produces whiteheads
Papules inflamed lesions that usually appear as small pink bumps on the skin that can appear to be tender on touch
Cysts deep, painful and usually pus-filled lesions that can cause scarring
Nodules large painful solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin
Pustules papules topped with white and yellow pus-filled lesions that are basically red at the base

How to treat acne?

Dermatologists normally treat acne but often you can use some homemade recipes to prevent severe acne. You should wash your face at least thrice a day with cold water and a mild cleanser. Using essential oils like lavender, chamomile, calendula, juniper and mint with almond oil on your skin will give effective results. You should also start adding zinc supplements to your diet and avoid caffeine, junk food and salty foods.

Other than these homemade recipes, you can also take prescribed medicines that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicyclic acid, sulfur, Azelaic acid, vitamin A, and OTC topical medicines to recover fast from acne.

Almost everyone has suffered from acne at one time or another in his or her lives. It is primarily a disorder of the sebaceous gland (glands in the skin that secrete an oily substance) of the face, the neck and back. When the sebaceous glands become clogged with the oily substance they create, the accumulation results in pimples. There are several forms of acne, but the most common is acne vulgaris, found primarily in adolescents.

The exact cause of acne is not known, but factors that contribute to this condition include heredity, oily skin and androgens. Additional factors include allergies, stress, the use of certain drugs, nutritional deficiencies, liver dysfunction, exposure to industrial pollutants, cosmetics and the monthly menstrual cycle.

In addition, the skin functions to eliminate a portion of the body’s toxic waste by sweating. If the body contains more toxins than the kidneys or liver can effectively discharge, the skin takes over. In fact, some doctors call the skin the 3rd kidney. As toxins escape through the skin, they can disrupt the health and integrity of the skin, creating issues.

Recommendations for Wellness

Note: Some of these recommendations may take 2-4 weeks before any results or improvements are experienced.

Apply distilled white vinegar (can be diluted if too strong) to the face and affected areas. Allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.

Lemon or any citric fruit works great as a natural exfoliate, removing dead skin cells that may clog the pours. As with the white vinegar, apply the juice of a lemon (or desired citric juice) to the face. Allow it to dry for about 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water. You may feel a mild sting or burn when the lemon juice is applied. If so, diluting the juice is acceptable.

Increase water consumption. Water helps flush toxin out and help transport nutrients in the body.

Eat a properly balanced diet to ensure proper nutrition. Take a high quality multiple vitamin and mineral supplement to make up for nutrients missing in today’s foods.

Echinacea or Oregon grape can be used to boost the immune system and fight acne-causing bacteria.

Dandelion, Burdock or red clover can help to keep the liver clear of toxic overload.

Herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshines Ayurvedic Skin Detox, and BP-X can also be used to cleanse and detoxify the liver and reduce acne.

Large quantities of vitamin A have been successfully used to treat severe acne. Large amounts, however, can be toxic and should only be used when working with your health care provider.

Consider adding additional zinc to your diet. Zinc aids in the healing of tissues and assists in preventing scarring. It is also important for the body in resisting infection and inflammation.

To clear and heal the skin, try a homeopathic Acne remedy. It can help to dry up pimples & prevent future outbreaks.