By the Scruff

Acne is a common skin problem faced by many, usually during the onset of puberty. It is caused by changes in hormone levels. Puberty is a time when a child changes to an adult; this is accompanied by various changes in the secretions of sebaceous glands. Acne is formed when oils secreted by glands combine with dead skin cells to block the hair follicles. It is a common enough skin ailment, faced by many all over the world. However when disfiguring scars occur on the face, chest, back and upper arms, a person – especially one who feels confused and unsure at the onset of teenage – tends to feel depressed and diffident about his or her appearance.

The most common form of acne is acne vulgaris or common acne, which is accompanied by the occurrence of red scars on the skin. There are expensive chemical treatments and face packs that can effectively control acne. There are also many natural ways to get rid of acne, which is more advantageous to the skin in the long run. Whatever the treatment, the point to remember is that acne is an infection caused by bacteria; therefore, all methods to get rid of acne must aim to kill or prevent the growth of the bacteria that causes the infection.

When you think of skin problems, it always pays to think natural. Including plenty of water in your daily diet is the best among all the natural ways to get rid of acne. Water flushes out the harmful toxins from your body and eases up the digestive system. One should drink six to eight glasses of water a day. In the hot season, the amount of water intake must be increased.

Speaking of the daily diet, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables daily. They also contain large amounts of water, which will keep your skin fresh and moisturized. Fruits and veggies also mean a lesser load on your digestive system. Natural herbs like Red Clover, Dandelion Root, Alfalfa and turmeric work wonders with acne.

For people with naturally oily skin, cleanse your face with mild unscented soap, two to three times a day, to remove the excess oil and dirt. Applying a piece of ripe tomato or orange on the skin also reduces the occurrence of pimples. Lemon has natural antiseptic properties, which reduces the spread of bacterial infection. One word of caution when using this method is that you may suffer from slight skin irritations. Application of ice packs at regular intervals is also considered effective by many experts.

Imbalances in hormone secretion can also be caused by an increase in stress or mental tensions. Daily workouts can not only keep you in shape, but they can also be ideal stress busters. Try dancing, aerobics or Yoga to fight stress and remain fit. After a stressful day at school, take a run around the park in the evening. It's a great way to help clear your head, lighten your heart and lift your mood.

Getting a full night’s sleep and maintaining a healthy daily schedule are the other fail-safe natural ways to get rid of acne. Most importantly, don’t let a few scars on your visage affect the spring in your step or the sparkle in your eye. Think positively, do things that you love doing and remember that there is more to you than just your face.