Our lifestyle and eating habits contribute to the eruption of mild to acute acne or even boils on the skin. They often cause increased oil production, and thickening of the lining, which can lead to inflammation of the skin. While there are many ways of dealing with acne, too much information can be overwhelming. 

Dr. Aanchal, MD, Dermatologist, recommends consulting a professional and taking a proper course of treatment for those with a history of acne scarring. However, for mild acne, Dr. Aanchal offers the following advice on how to treat acne at home. 

Hydrocolloid Patch: These are small thumbnail side patches loaded with silicone, which when applied to a boil help in healing the skin. If there is a breach in the barrier of the skin and the inflammation becomes painful, this patch helps in soothing the skin and reducing the inflammation. However, the dermatologist warns against using the patch in case of excess acne.

Salicylic Acid Gel: You can also try the Salicylic Acid Gel which is available in most chemist shops. Dr. Aanchal recommends starting with 1 percent of Salicylic Acid Gel. The gel should be applied to the acne area at night and washed off in the morning. For people with sensitive skin, it is recommended that the gel should be applied for only one to two hours at night. It is important to wash off the gel and apply moisturiser before going to bed. For extremely thick, oily, acne-prone skin, you can use 2 percent Salicylic Acid Gel.

Benzoyl Peroxide: An antibacterial solution, it doesn’t cause any resistance and soothes the skin against pustules and other harsh acne. Depending on the skin type, it can be used as a gel or face wash. You can apply it on the face, and leave it for about two-three minutes before washing it off.

Azelaic Acid: This helps in reducing acne inflammation. The solution helps in reducing the thickening of the lining of pilosebaceous glands, which then lessens the dark spots that follow the acne. Though it is available in 10 and 20 percent concentrations, Dr. Aanchal recommends starting with 10 percent. Using the 20 percent acid is recommended for extremely oily and acne-prone skin. It can be applied twice a day: in the morning after the face wash before moisturising or applying sunscreen, and at night before applying the moisturiser.

Niacinamide: Niacinamide can be a good agent in controlling acne, especially with red areas and papules. It reduces the inflammation as well as dark spots caused by acne. For dry, acne-prone skin, niacinamide is a good option. In order for the skin to get accustomed to the treatment, it is recommended that a serum or cream with a 5 percent niacinamide concentration can be used initially. If the skin is taking it well, a 10 percent concentration can be used.

Apart from these, Dr Aanchal suggests a few dos and don’ts that go a long way in dealing with acne and having healthy skin.

The DOs:

• Apply honey twice a week. Honey has anti-inflammatory and bacterial properties
• Apply rose water. It is an astringent and helps in reducing inflammation and redness in the skin
• Applying green tea bags is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce redness in the affected area
• Apply curd for a few hours and wash it off. It has lactic acid and moisturises the skin
• Apply a gram flour face pack mixed with curd, rose water, honey and turmeric. Leave it until dry, wash it off, and apply moisturiser afterwards. However, this should only be used by those having thick, oily, acne-prone skin
• Dietary changes such as, avoiding the consumption of fast food or food rich in carbohydrates or sugar, can help prevent acne 

The DON'Ts:

• Anti-bacterial agents such as retinoids clindamycin and nadifloxacin should not be used without a doctor’s prescription
• Some people apply lemon, toothpaste or baking soda on the skin. They may offer an immediate soothing sensation, but they can cause skin burns and leave scars
• Don’t use aspirin on the skin. Aspirin acts as a salicylate acid, and applying it directly can leave a burn on the skin. Use it by mixing either with plain water or rose water which will form a gel-like consistency

Key Takeaway

When it comes to skincare and its treatments, one can easily be overwhelmed by the information and options available. Good eating habits will certainly reflect good skin. A good skincare routine can take care of skin irritants that happen due to environmental pollution. It is better to be mindful of the products that you apply to the skin in order to avoid further damage to it. Do consult a dermatologist in case acne is persistent or acute. Your dermatologist may recommend the treatment based on the right assessment of your skin type. 

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