Pimples and Their Causes:
Pimples are small papules, pustules, skin lesions or skin inflammations and are also known as zits or spots. They are usually found on the face, back, chest and shoulders. The cause of pimples can be:- Excess sebum secretion
- Bacterial infections due to poor hygiene
- Clogging of pores due to trapped oil, dirt, dust and pollution
- Clogging of pores due to cosmetics and makeup products
- Accumulation of dead skin cells and grime buildup
- Unhealthy lifestyle and dietary habits
- Consumption of junk food
- Not drinking enough water
- Heredity or genes
- Age: Teenagers are more prone to hormonal changes and a cause of acne
How to Avoid Pimples – 21 Effective Methods
The most important thing to remember is prevention is better than cure. These unwanted pimples can be prevented by following some basic skin care regimes.1. Good Lifestyle:
Following a good hygiene routine that includes washing the face regularly to get rid of makeup, dirt, dust and grime is very important to keep pimples at bay. Cleaning the skin helps remove dead skin cells and also frees the skin from contaminants that may aggravate the growth of pimples. Do not forget to apply a toner after cleansing. Avoid popping the pimples and avoid cleansers that destroy skin balance. Check product ingredient labels for salicylic acid, neem, tea tree oil, honey or turmeric as each of these natural ingredients fight pimples. Many brands available in the market like Cetaphil, Neutrogena, Aroma Magic, Clean & Clear and Himalaya have specific cleansing products to target and help pimple-prone skin.2. Wash Pillow Cover and Towels Regularly:
Dirty pillow covers and dirty towels aid bacterial growth, leading to breakouts. It is very important to wash pillowcases, bed sheets and towels at regular intervals. It is also a good idea to frequently wash all makeup brushes and sponges to minimize the changes of spreading bacteria.3. Use Non-Comedogenic Makeup and Skin Care Products:
As acne is most commonly caused due to clogged pores, which are perfect for bacteria to grow and flourish, it is important to use non-comedogenic products or products that do not block the pores. Such products allow the skin to breathe and reduce the chances of skin infections, inflammation, irritation and acne. Consider, choosing oil-free and fragrance-free products.4. Do Not Skip Moisturizing:
Contrary to popular belief, acne-prone skin needs moisturizing and hydration. Not providing the skin with enough moisture, will encourage sebaceous glands to produce more sebum or oil to compensate for moisture and leading to increased chances of acne. Consider choosing a moisturizer, which is oil-free, lightweight, water-based or gel-based and non-comedogenic will hydrate the skin without making it look oily or greasy. A basic beauty regime of cleansing, toning and moisturizing must be followed religiously.5. Exercise:
With the hectic lifestyle nowadays, stress levels are high, just 30 minutes of daily exercise is excellent for the health as well as the skin. As daily exercise keeps hormone levels in balance and also releases toxins through sweat, it reduces the chances of pimples. Moreover, the importance of sleep should not be ignored. Take ample rest and ensure you do not over stress yourself.6. Avoid Touching the Face:
Keep your hands away from the skin. Do not rest the chin or cheeks on your hands or dirty surfaces, as this will cause bacteria to spread. Do not pop, prick or squeeze a pimple that would further spread the infection and cause scarring. Make it a habit to wash your hands with an anti-bacterial soap before touching the facial skin. Moreover, try and keep your hair away from the face.7. Eat Healthy:
Pimples can be prevented by following a healthy and balanced diet. Reduce carbohydrates, sugar and dairy products and include more vegetables and fruits in the diet. Drink lots of water to remain hydrated and flush out toxins from the body regularly.Natural Remedies to Remove Pimples
Pimples can be prevented and cured by many cosmetic products and through natural remedies. Cosmetic products can be costly and can also cause side effects. Natural remedies are comparatively more cost-effective, and do not possess any side effects. There are many natural remedies to cure pimples. While some may be more effective for some, others might have little effect. It is best to try them for yourself to find how the remedy works.8. Orange:
Applying orange juice with a cotton swab is an effective remedy to avoid pimples. Alternatively, apply the juice on the affected area and let it work overnight. Ensure the juice used is fresh and does not contain any preservatives as this could aggravate rashes on sensitive skin. Dried orange peels can be ground in a mixer and stored in an airtight container. Make a paste using the powder by adding some water in it to gently cleanse the face.9. Toothpaste:
Applying toothpaste over pimples will cause them to dry quickly and disappear soon. Use toothpaste that contains silica. For best results, rub ice over the face before applying the toothpaste. Allow the toothpaste to rest on the skin for 30 minutes before washing with water. Repeat 2 – 3 times for effective removal of acne.10. Baking Soda:
Apply a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice to prevent and cure pimples. This remedy can be used for all types of skin, oily, dry, sensitive or combination. To ensure best results, cleanse the skin before applying the paste. Leave the paste for 5 minutes and then wash the face. Do not forget to moisturize the skin after cleansing the skin.11. Aloe Vera:
Rub aloe vera on pimples or pimple-prone skin. Aloe vera helps remove oil from the skin and makes it soft and healthy. The natural remedy also cures redness and sunburns. For best results, the leaf of a fresh plant should be rubbed over the affected area on a regular basis.12. Ice Cubes:
Apply ice over the affected area and get rid of pimples quickly. Ice freezes the skin pores and removes excessive oil and dirt that has been trapped in the pores. Ice cubes also reduce swelling and also smoothen the skin.13. Mint Leaves:
The juice of mint leaves when applied overnight on affected areas can help get rid of acne and acne scars.14. Apple Cider Vinegar:
Natural apple cider vinegar regulates the pH level of the skin and helps cure pimples. Add half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a cup of water. Dip some cotton wool and gently apply it on the affected areas and let it stay overnight.15. Honey:
Applying honey over the face helps prevent pimples as well as treats them. Honey contains an antibiotic that helps reduce inflammation and heals affected areas. Apply honey and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing with tepid water for healthy and glowing skin.16. Oatmeal:
Oatmeal helps remove impurities and acts as a gentle exfloitant that absorbs excess oil and works wonderfully at clearing pimples. Cook oatmeal like you normally would. Let it cool and apply it on the cleansed face for 10 – 15 minutes. Pat dry and apply a toner and moisturizer.17. Garlic:
Rubbing garlic cloves on the skin is very effective for healing pimples as it contains sulphur, which is an anti-septic, anti-oxidant, anti-fungal and anti-viral. Leave the juice on the skin for 5 minutes before washing it with water. Repeat the process everyday in order to get quick results.Drug Store Products for Acne Alleviation
18. Tea Tree Oil:
The Australian tea tree contains terpinen-4-ol, which is an antibacterial agent that kills zit-causing bacteria. The solvent can stop oil and greasy substances from clogging pores and sebaceous glands that form pimples. Tea tree oil also helps get rid of blackheads and white heads and can be used on all skin types. Use it directly by applying on the affected areas with a cotton swab. The Tea Tree Oil from The Body Shop costs Rs. 695 and is highly recommended.19. The Aroma Magic Fairy Oil:
This can be found at most drug stores and chemist shops and costs about Rs. 250 for a 15 ml bottle. The product helps reduce pustules, blackheads and inflammations. The natural anti-bacterial properties help reduce acne and balance oily skin. The product can be used after cleansing the face. Apply some on a wet cotton wool and dab it on the affected area by pressing it gently for a few seconds.20. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser:
This effective cleanser can be found in most stores for Rs. 235. It is effective for cleansing skin, removing excess oil, dirt, skin debris and makeup. The cleanser is formulated to remove oil without affecting the skin barrier and ensures the skin is well hydrated for long hours.21. Neutrogena Oil Acne Face Wash:
The oil-free formula reaches the deepest of pores and effectively cleanses them. The face wash contains salicylic acid that helps gently to get rid of acne on the skin. Moreover, it also prevents the formation of inflammations or rashes. The product is commonly available for Rs. 425 for a 175 ml bottle. Acne or pimples are embarrassing and burdensome. Though you do not have control over the breakouts, you surely can take measures to prevent them or reduce their intensity. Moreover, it is a personal choice whether you want to use natural remedies or chemical based products or medications. However, sometimes all that really is required are a good lifestyle, right nutritional balance, exercise, water, no stress, good sleep and a proper skin hygiene regime. If you are passionate about effective skin care and enjoyed reading our article, please share your valuable comments and also share our article.Content by: Stylecraze.com