How do you treat acne?

Acne is a very common skin problem that affects both adults and teenagers. Considered a common skin problem, it is often neglected.

However, its psychological consequences are more significant, especially in adolescents. Acne treatment is multiple and varies according to its severity and the individual concerned. Details about this skin problem.

The stages of acne severity

Acne pimples usually appear during puberty. They disappear as soon as the individual passes his or her teenage years, but sometimes they persist. At some point, acne becomes difficult to treat.

There are 5 stages of acne severity.

Level 1: very mild acne

The skin problem is just beginning to show. The face does not show any lesions, but has a few papules and blackheads that may be open or closed.

Level 2: mild acne

Open and closed blackheads appear on the face and affect less than half of the face. Acne is easily identifiable.

Level 3: Average acne

At this stage, papulopustules and blackheads invade more than half of the face. The lesions can affect different parts of the body, such as the back and shoulders.

Level 4: Severe acne

The entire face is covered with papulopustules as well as open and closed blackheads.

Level 5: very severe acne

The skin of the face is subject to inflammation that manifests itself as cysts and nodules. These usually leave scars that are difficult to reduce.

The different solutions to treat acne

Treatments in local action

Local treatments are effective for moderate acne, i.e. up to level 3. They come in different forms: application of cream or ointment, cleansing with a gel or lotion, etc.

The purchase of local acne products does not require a doctor's prescription. However, it is a good idea to ask the pharmacist for advice, who can suggest suitable local treatments.

In the case of severe acne, a consultation with a doctor or dermatologist becomes essential. The latter may propose oral medication or isotretinoid treatments. However, this second solution is usually accompanied by a moisturizing treatment, because it can lead to significant skin dryness. To avoid further damage to the skin, good hydration is essential. Note that professionals use isotretinoid when oral treatment fails.

Phytotherapy

This involves treating acne with herbal products such as burdock. Burdock has detoxifying and depurative properties. It promotes skin drainage and eliminates microbes.

Phytotherapy products are available in several forms: tinctures, drinkable phials, gels, capsules... In addition to eliminating acne pimples, they calm skin irritations.

Homeopathy

To adopt this solution, consultation with a homeopath is required. This method consists of injecting a low dose of the substances that, at a high dose, lead to the appearance of acne symptoms. These substances are made from plant, animal or mineral products.

To ensure the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment, the determination of the level of severity of the acne is necessary. The professional can thus prescribe Sulfur iodatum, Hepar sulfur, selenium...

Homeopathy can be combined with natural treatments.

Aromatherapy

The treatment of acne pimples by aromatherapy requires great caution. Essential oils are delicate products whose use requires certain precautions to be taken. Indeed, some of them are not recommended for pregnant women, children under the age of 12, individuals with a history of allergy...

Tea tree, thyme and lavender essential oils are the best known for treating acne-prone skin. Alone or mixed with other products, they can be applied directly to the affected area.

Grandmother's remedies

Grandmother's remedies are also effective, especially if the acne problem is just beginning to appear, i.e. at levels 1 and 2.

To dry pimples and regulate sebum secretion, you can apply a clay poultice. The latter is strongly discouraged in case of a facial wound. Use a wooden spoon to prepare and apply the mixture to the affected area. Let it rest for 10 minutes and remove the clay when it begins to dry.

Tomato is known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. You can eliminate your acne pimples by placing a few slices of organic tomatoes on them. Let it rest for about 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

You can also use cider vinegar to treat your acne skin. Take a compress or a cotton pad that you are going to soak with vinegar and place on the part of the face invaded by acne pimples. Leave for 5 minutes before rinsing with warm water.