Using Aloe Vera for Acne

Acne is a common skin problem that affects both adolescents and adults. It is an infection that is caused by bacterial growth inside the skin pores. These pores are opening of the hair follicles, present on the skin surface. Each hair follicle consists of a hair and an oil gland.

The oily substance, produced by these oil glands is known as sebum. Sebum makes the skin smooth and facilitates easy removal of old and dead skin cells. Due to overproduction of sebum, the old skin cells do not get removed and get accumulated inside the skin pores.

Excess of oil, skin cell debris, dirt, etc., block the skin pores and make the skin conducive to bacterial growth. When the bacteria multiply, the skin gets inflamed and the root of the hair follicle gets filled with pus. This leads to the development of 'acne'.

Aloe vera has been found to be quite effective in alleviating the symptoms of this skin condition.

Since centuries, people have been aware of the multipurpose benefits of this medicinal plant. Its long, thick-skinned leaves contains a transparent gel-like substance. It is a rich source of essential nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, and E; minerals, salicylic acid, fatty acids, amino acids, saponins, etc.

It can be used both internally, as well as externally to treat acne. Consumption of this gel strengthens one's immune system and helps the body fight infections, while application on affected skin reduces inflammation.

Two of its vital components called gibberellin and polysaccharides help reduce skin inflammation. Antibiotic properties of the aloe gel destroy the bacteria. These are the key ingredients that play a major role in healing the infected part of the skin. They also promote growth of new skin cells and help elimination of scarred tissues.

There are many different ways of using this plant for acne control. These include:

If you have this plant at home, then cut a leaf to extract the gel. You also have the option of purchasing fresh leaves from the market. Wash the leaf thoroughly, cut open its thick green rind to get the pulp. Wash your face properly, pat it dry, and apply this pulp on the affected skin.

It has a calming effect on the irritated skin, and also reduces redness and inflammation. It also unclogs the skin pores and improves the blood circulation in that area. Thus, it facilitates healing of acne. It also rejuvenates the damaged skin cells and makes the skin healthy. You can also apply it on old acne marks to reduce their appearance.

Aloe is used as an ingredient for making various acne skin care products like soap, cream, and lotions. Including them in your daily skin care regime helps you get rid of those ugly pimples. An aloe-based face wash or soap can be used for cleansing up your face twice daily.

You can gently rub it all over the face, with special attention on the infected areas and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. After every wash, you can apply an aloe cream or lotion, for moisturizing your skin.

These creams and lotions not only hydrate the skin, but also prevent accumulation of excessive oil on the skin surface. Thus, the chances of any further outbreak is reduced to a great extent.

Take half tablespoon of fresh aloe gel, half tablespoon of raw honey, and one tablespoon of sea kelp powder and mix all these ingredients properly. Keep it for 10 - 15 minutes. In the meantime, wash your face with a mild cleansing soap and pat it dry with a soft towel.

Apply the freshly prepared mask generously all over the face, except around the eyes. Allow the mask to stay on the face for 15 minutes and then wash of with lukewarm water. You should use this face mask twice or thrice a week at night, before going to bed, to make your skin free from acne.

Fresh juice is readily available in the local food stores and is fit for consumption. Half cup of aloe juice daily could help you get rid of this problem. If you cannot bear its bitter taste, then blend it with any other fruit juice of your choice and have it.

Drinking this juice regularly helps in flushing out harmful toxins from the body and ensures faster healing. It also improves production of protein components like elastin and collagen. These components remove the scars and make the skin soft and smooth.

Aloe is suitable for all types of skin. It is one of the preferred acne treatments, as it is inexpensive. Along with the use of aloe vera, make sure that you follow a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.