Like many of you reading this, I've suffered from acne for
years. From my teenage years up to now in my late twenties,
clearing my acne has always been a failed mission.

It was just one product after another—mostly topical
medication and some oral antibiotics.

The problem was, all this time I've been overlooking one
very basic fact: That beauty really has to start from
within, literally.

Recently, I've been strictly trying to change my old ways to
incorporate more natural methods against acne. For the first
time in years, I am seeing dramatic and consistent progress.

Tried it, done that

Acne is such a common problem that so much attention has
been dedicated to its treatment. Mild to moderate acne are
normally treated with ointments or creams with either
antibacterial or keratolytic ingredients.

The most popular of these are benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin
and salicylic acid. What these substances do is kill acne-
causing germs, and speed up the drying and exfoliation of
the affected areas.

However, I've found they can be quite harsh ingredients that
can result to stinging, sensitivity to sunlight and too much
dryness.

There are alternative herbal remedies too but you should be
extra careful about possible allergic reactions to certain
plant extracts.

For severe cases, dermatologists usually prescribe oral
antibiotics or medicine treating hormonal imbalance.
Similarly, not everybody reacts well to these drugs.

Water works

Drinking 8 glasses of water a day sounds too much of a
cliché that people sometimes neglect to do it. But it is no
exaggeration that it helps flush out our body's toxins and
provide natural moisture to our skin.

Best of all, it has no side effects and hardly costs
anything. While increasing your water intake, try to limit
or avoid your caffeine as well, as it can cause stimulation
and dehydration.

The right diet

Naturally, what we eat will have an effect on our skin's
health too. For me, the most important tip has been to stay
away from oily foods. Eating oily food can stimulate the
sebaceous glands to produce more oil that can clog pores and
worsen acne.

Sugar should also be limited. Instead, eat vitamin- and
fiber-rich fruits, beans and vegetables regularly.
Antioxidant supplements consisting of vitamins A, C and E,
as well as zinc, selenium and fatty acids are also
essential.

Natural regimen

Basic skin care is equally as important. Cleansing and
moisturizing at least twice a day will prevent further
irritation and can condition your skin to heal faster. When
it comes to cleansing and moisturizing products, I am now
very particular about those with natural and mild
ingredients.

Biochemical research has produced new ways to treat skin
problems without any kind of chemical peeling. Ideal natural
products should have antibacterial and cell-renewal action,
while being gentle and moisturizing, too.

Relax

Last, it also helps to relax.

Stress and lack of sleep can cause new breakouts, not to
mention that they make the skin dull. A happier disposition
will more than light up your face—it just might help clear
your skin as well.