Do you suffer from the horrors acne? Are blackheads continuing to resurface even after a facial? You aren’t alone. An estimated 80% of all people aged between 11 and 30 suffer from an acne outbreak at least once in their lifetime, making it the most common of all skin diseases around – and one of the most frustrating.
From old wives tales to the latest fad direct from Hollywood, the ways of treating acne have been tried and tested by all its sufferers over the years. So much so that the “acne industry” is one of the fasted growing in the nation, reportedly worth over $5 billion and climbing.
It seems we all are seeking that miracle treatment to cure our skin for good, and for many of us, it means believing (with everything crossed) that this latest and greatest is our saviour, however unlikely that may be.
So before we can go any further, let's dispel a few of the most common myths about acne and free our mind from the miracle fad we just saw Kylie Jenner promoting on her Instagram.
Myth 1: Dirty skin causes acne
We have all been led to believe that not washing or scrubbing our faces numerous times a day can lead to blocked pores which in turn lead to acne. Not true. Constant scrubbing/washing using chemically enhanced products can make your acne breakout even worse!
What to do instead: Wash your face twice daily with warm water and a gentle cleanser. Be sure to wash your face before bedtime to clean off any makeup you may still have on. Finish with a Vitamin E infused moisturiser made from natural ingredients such as Organic Paw Paw and Organic Aloe Vera.
Try our whisper-light Sorboderm Natural Restoring Gentle Moisturiser! Organic Paw Paw, Organic Aloe Vera and Vitamin E makeup 95% of the ingredients in this remarkable moisturiser (the main ingredient in most other moisturisers is water) and enriched with Shea Butter for extra hydration and soothing Chamomile. Tested and recommended by dermatologists, it is absorbed instantly, leaving your face and body feeling hydrated and soothed.
Myth 2 – Pop that pimple
When that nasty pimple appears on our forehead, it must be popped, freeing the blocked pore as soon as possible. Again, not true. Popping pimples can inflame acne, making it look worse and causing further inflammation.
What to do instead: Though it may take all your willpower, leave that pimple alone! Invest in a soothing skin relief spray, made from nature’s own anti-inflammatory Aloe Vera. Aloe vera has been long regarded for its natural healing qualities, and will assist in reducing the redness and irritation of pimples! Products containing vitamins C and E will also aid in reducing the effects of acne.
We recommend Superfood Repair Gel & Spray. Made from 99% all natural Aloe Vera, this skin relieving spray will rehydrate and soothe your irritated skin. Apply liberally and often to the affected area to reduce breakouts while restoring your skin at the same time.
Myth 3 - Acne goes away on its own
This myth is, unfortunately, the worst one for sufferers of acne. Acne is a result of clogged pores in the skin. Once your skin becomes clogged, it produces a natural bacteria that, in turn, causes inflammation and irritation. Leaving acne untreated can lead to larger and more painful cysts visible on the skin, which can then result in future scarring.
What to do instead: Find a natural treatment to assist in treating your acne! As mentioned above, products containing natural ingredients like Aloe vera, Paw Paw, and Vitamin E will all assist in clearing up that nasty acne breakout. Vitamin E is known for reducing the effects of scarring on the skin while acting as a natural moisturiser at the same time.
We recommend: Putting together a regime for your face and sticking to it. Invest in natural anti-inflammatory products and avoid products with pore clogging ingredients (like petroleum) or harsh chemicals, as they can further irritate your skin. Moisturising after every shower, both morning and night, to avoid dryness.
Our five top tips to reduce the symptoms of acne:
1. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin regularly
Using non-abrasive products free from chemicals keeps your skin from further breakouts. Choose natural products containing moisturising properties. Paw Paw has long been regarded in the beauty industry as nature's very own cleanser, having the innate ability to clear the skin of impurities. This magical fruit also contains a high amount of vitamin C - helping your skin with sun damage and promoting youthfulness.
2. Eat healthily and treat acne from the inside out
It makes sense to assume that what you put into your body will reflect on the outside, so limiting foods that cause your body to produce an oversupply of insulin (from a high sugar, processed diet) and focusing on leafy greens, berries and whole foods will ultimately assist in reducing acne symptoms.
3. Moisturise
Invest in a natural moisturiser made from with active ingredients (such as Paw Paw or Aloe Vera) to keep your skin well hydrated and soothed. Allowing your skin to dry out will only irritate and inflame your acne further.
4. Limit sun exposure
Ultraviolet rays from harsh sunshine can stimulate “pigment-producing cells” increasing the chances of scarring from acne. To minimise this, ensure time in the sun is limited to 20-30 minutes per day, and if more fun in the sun is required, invest in a natural sunscreen (with moisturising properties).
5. Keep your body well hydrated
As mentioned above, acne needs to be treated from the inside out, so keeping your body well hydrated (around 2 litres of water should be drunk each day) will go a long way in maintaining your skin’s hydration.
All Natralus products are natural and free from animal testing, nasty chemicals, parabens and petroleum. Our SorboDerm ranges and a range of other products are now available in Chemist Warehouse nationally!
