Acne can present such a big problem for young people they are considered a real health risk. The fleeting self-confidence of teenagers can be shattered by the coming of acne, and that can scar people for life, not only in the physical sense, but also emotionally. The causes of acne are mostly genetic, and hygiene, sunlight and diet seem to have little or no influence.
Acne is caused by an inflammation of a layer of skin, caused by the blockage of tunnels that normally discharge the products of the small glands underneath the skin of the face.
Many methods and therapies exist for treating acne. Sadly, completely curing them is so far impossible, and all therapies are symptomatic, meaning they can only help lessen their effects. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatments are available, as are some more advanced methods. However, medications such as antibiotics and analgesics have their side effects, and over-use can cause many problems, including developing a resistance and liver problems.
As many medical treatments as there are, there are an equal number of alternative, natural and home-made treatments for acne. The efficacy of these is not always proven (though in some cases it is not discredited either).
It is important to note, however, that some of these natural and home-made treatments involve putting assorted chemicals and substances on your face, which can cause reactions ranging from mild irritation and allergic reactions to an even greater skin inflammation. The risks with using these treatments differ, and the results are not always predictable.
Should you choose to buy any over-the-counter products for your acne treatment, it’s best to know more about the product you are interested in trying out that will be most suitable for your skin. You can find detailed reviews of acne treatments and medication here.
An easy and non-invasive home treatment for acne you can try is facial steaming. It is a rather simple method, involving household items that might be effective in lessening the effects of acne.
The Benefits of Facial Steaming
Here is why facial steaming can be such an effective acne home remedy that almost costs nothing.
Acne is caused by a blockage in the base of the hair (or follicle), that blocks the discharge of the oil glands underneath the hair. When that blockage happens, the body reacts by producing more oil and causing an immune response at the site, to attempt to clear the blockage.
However, this does not always work, and sometimes the process that should clear the debris from the oil canal ends up causing a swelling that only makes it worse. A facial steaming can potentially help by relaxing the skin of the face, warming it up and loosening the oily deposits inside the canal. This can help the glands discharge the debris and clear themselves, preventing acne.
An added benefit is that steam has been known to be a great cleanser, and it can help clear the face of all the dust and particles that stick to it during the day. Steam flushes out the debris, melts and washes away the oily deposits on the face and leaves a clean skin after.
Gwyneth Paltrow demonstrating the benefits of facial steaming.
[Image credit: The Daily Beast]
Gwyneth Paltrow probably has other ideas of using facial steam by using a steam iron as illustrated in the image. If you happen to fall asleep while doing that, and if your face fells on the wrong side, you are going to have a scar for lifetime. Ouch! Of course there is a safer way of doing that.
For a facial steaming treatment you will need…
- 1 pot of boiling water
- 1 towel
- A large bowl
- Optionally a handful of basil, mint, lavender or any aromatic herb you can put in the water to potentially increase the effect and provide a form of aromatherapy.
Just boil a pot of water (optionally with the herbs), pour into a large bowl, and let it sit for a few minutes to cool down. Its best to use a glass, metal or clay pot here. Do not use one that is made of plastic as hot water tend to trigger plastic molecules that will mix up in the steam. After it has cooled sufficiently not to burn or cause discomfort when you hover your face above it, place your face above the bowl, and drape the towel over your head.
Just to make an important note here. Make sure you have washed your face with a mild cleanser eliminating any makeup, dirt, oil and sweat. This is because the steam will open up your pores and if your face is still dirty, might lead to cause some irritations.
This will trap the steam and allow the space between the bowl and your face to fill up. After about 10 minutes, you can remove the towel. Wash your face with warm water gently and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Be careful not to rub your face with the towel, as this can cause abrasions on the softened skin.
For best results here, its good to do a follow up treatment by using a good moisturizer like those made with soothing oils, aloe and butters. This will prevent your skin from getting too dry after the effects of steaming.
There you have it! For those who have severe cases of acne, it will take a longer time to see any results. You just have to be very patient and let nature take its course.
