clearing acne Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Acne Scar Removal Face Mask

The AHA! Team — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 05:44:38 +0000

Kyra Oliver via Dr. Axe – Having acne is no picnic for anyone. Not only do people suffer from the embarrassing state of their skin, but often it can leave behind nasty acne scars that can last a lifetime if left untreated, leaving many searching for ways to get rid of scarring, such as an acne scar removal face mask. Unfortunately, in search of how to get rid of acne scars, most rush to the nearest drugstore for ineffective topical medications or get dangerous prescription drugs that are often equally useless. To really make a difference, you must address the cause (clogged pores, bacteria, excess oil production, hormones, diet, stress and certain medications) of your acne and use the best home remedies for acne. Next, to address the unsightly scars that can form, try this acne scar removal face mask. Utilizing essential oils for acne, such as tea tree, frankincense and helichrysum essential oils, it’s a careful blend of powerful ingredients meant to naturally reduce scarring. Key ingredients Acne scars can be frustrating reminders of past breakouts, often affecting confidence long after the pimples are gone. Natural remedies offer a gentle yet effective way to fade these marks over time. This simple, do-it-yourself face mask powered by healing oils and wholesome ingredients is perfect for those seeking a fresh-faced glow without harsh chemicals. Here are the key players in this DIY acne scar removal face mask. Lemon juice A natural astringent and mild bleaching agent, lemon juice helps lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation associated with acne scars. It also provides antioxidant protection. Honey With its natural humectant properties, honey keeps skin hydrated while promoting wound healing. It also possesses antibacterial qualities, supporting scar recovery. Almond oil A light, non‑comedogenic carrier oil rich in vitamins E and A, almond oil soothes inflammation, nourishes the skin and supports optimal healing. Its gentle texture makes it ideal for delicate post-acne skin. Tea tree essential oil Tea tree oil is a powerhouse for acne and blemish-prone skin thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It speeds healing and helps fade scars. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that topical 5 percent tea tree oil for acne was 3.55 times and 5.75 times more effective than the placebo in treating mild to moderate acne. Frankincense essential oil Known for its astringent and regenerative properties, frankincense improves skin tone, reduces scar visibility and supports healing. It helps tighten pores and even skin texture. Helichrysum essential oil Often called the “immortelle” oil, helichrysum essential oil reduces inflammation and promotes tissue repair. Clinically recognized for its anti-inflammatory components like arzanol, it’s highly regarded for scar therapy. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the top essential oils for scars, which is why it’s part of this acne scar removal face mask. How to make an acne scar removal face mask This homemade acne scar removal face mask takes less than 10 minutes to make, and it’s certainly worth the little time it takes. To start, combine the lemon juice, honey and almond oil in a jar, and mix until smooth. Then, add the essential oils, and stir gently to distribute them throughout the mixture. Mix it all well, and it’s ready to go. To use this DIY acne scar removal face mask, perform a patch test first on a small area of your skin (such as your inner arm) to make sure you don’t have a negative skin reaction. If your skin doesn’t have irritation or sensitivity, it’s safe for sure. Apply a thin, even layer to clean, dry skin, focusing on the areas with acne scars. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and feel free to apply it daily. After 15-20 minutes, rinse this acne scar removal face mask off with lukewarm water. Pat dry the area, and use a gentle moisturizer after for optimal skin benefits. Try this mask once daily for about eight to 10 days. If you notice any discomfort, discontinue use, or apply every other day. Safety tips Patch test before use: Discontinue if skin becomes red, itchy or inflamed. Sun sensitivity alert: Lemon juice can increase UV sensitivity. Always use sunscreen after. Stick to pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils to ensure safety and efficacy. This DIY acne scar face mask combines time-tested natural ingredients into a potent blend that fades scars gently over time. With consistent use (and sun protection), it supports brighter, smoother skin. Just be patient: Natural healing takes weeks to months. It does not create miracles in days. More DIY face mask recipes This acne scar removal face mask is hardly the only natural skin care mask recipe you can make. Here are some more skin-supporting face masks to try: DIY Turmeric Face Mask for Glowing Skin Homemade Avocado Face Mask DIY Charcoal Mask with Rosehip and Tea Tree Oils DIY Blackhead Removal Mask with Turmeric, Peppermint & Frankincense Acne Scar Removal Face Mask Author: Kyra Oliver / Total Time: 5 min / Yield: 10 uses Want to get rid of acne scars? Prepare this homemade acne scar removal face mask made up of essential oils and see results for yourself. Ingredients 3 tablespoons lemon juice 3 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons almond oil (or olive oil) 8–10 drops tea tree essential oil 8–10 drops frankincense essential oil 6–8 drops helichrysum essential oil Instructions Combine all ingredients into a jar. Mix well. Apply daily, leaving on the skin for 10-15 minutes. Wash thoroughly. Try this mask once daily for about 8-10 days. If you notice any discomfort, discontinue use, or apply every other day. To read the original article click here.

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Acne and Vitamin B12

The AHA! Team — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:39:19 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Acne can be triggered in one in ten people who get vitamin B12 injections. “Acne is a disease unique to humans.” Why do we even get it? Well, think about the distribution of those greasy sebaceous glands. They’re “on the face, chest and back; these are exactly the same structures that pose the greatest obstruction during childbirth…Having extra lubrication at these sites would help make the baby more slippery for birth conferring a selective advantage to successful delivery.” Perhaps, but what triggers them to become inflamed into pimples later in life? “In westernized societies, acne vulgaris is a nearly universal skin disease afflicting 79% to 95%” of teens. Not even a single case could be found in some populations where more “traditional” diets are eaten (i.e., minimally processed, high-carb, low-fat diets). “Nutrition counseling” has been suggested “as a first-line or adjunctive therapy…for individuals with mild to moderate acne.” It looks like high glycemic foods and dairy products are “exacerbating factors,” so we’re talking about sugar, soda, refined junky carbohydrates, white flour, breakfast cereal, and dairy products, like milk, cheese, yogurt, and whey, as well as saturated and trans fats, which are concentrated in meat, dairy, junk, and fast food. You can see a table detailing this below and at 1:21 in my video Do Vitamin B12 Supplements Cause Acne?. “Acne patients should be encouraged to discontinue any whey protein supplements they might be taking,” for example. “The relationship between milk and acne severity may be explained by the presence in dairy of normal reproductive [sex] steroid hormones or the enhanced production of polypeptide [growth] hormones such as IGF-1…” What if you gave up dairy a month ago and there’s still no change? “It should be noted that changes in acne due to any pharmaceutical treatment or dietary changes are likely to take at least 10 to 12 weeks,” so you have to stick with it. “Acne patients,” not surprisingly, “were more than twice as likely to have a non-vegan diet compared with controls,” but the difference did not reach statistical significance. Were the vegans eating a lot of vegan junk? Maybe, but what about the paper entitled, “Vitamin B-12 Induced Acne”? Mammalian herbivores, including nonhuman primates like gorillas, and our fellow great apes, get all the B12 they need by practicing coprophagy, the eating of feces, but my preference would be to take B12 supplements. And you don’t have to worry about getting too much because it’s been reported that “there are no reports of adverse effects associated with excess B12 intake”—but that’s not true. First described back in the 1950s, acne erupts in about one in ten people within days or even hours of getting an injection of vitamin B12, which then disappears rapidly when injection “treatment is discontinued.” At the time, we had no idea what the mechanism might be, and the problem remained unsolved until just a few years ago when we finally figured it out: Vitamin B12 modulates the gene expression of the skin bacteria that cause acne. Researchers swabbed the skin of ten people before and after being injected with vitamin B12. As you can see below and at 3:20 in my video, it turns out that the level of B12 on our skin is proportional to the level in our blood, so, after a B12 injection, the bacteria on our skin have to make less of their own B12. As a result, the acne bacteria could concentrate instead on using their cellular machinery to churn out more compounds to attack our face and “induce inflammation in acne.” Indeed, as you can see here and at 3:53 in my video, without excess B12 on the skin (with B12 shown in green), the bacteria have to make most of it on their own at the expense of porphyrins (shown in red), which can trigger acne inflammation. When there is a lot of B12 floating around, the bacteria don’t have to waste resources and, instead, can focus on trying to pimple you up. So, what do you do? We know that individuals on plant-based diets have to take supplemental B12, but we don’t have to get injections. Vitamin B12-related acne tends to occur only “in dosages in excess of 5 to 10 mg per week.” That’s 5,000 to 10,000 micrograms a week, which is well in excess of the 50 micrograms a day or, alternately, the 2,000-microgram single weekly dose that I recommend. The only time you should be taking 5,000 to 10,000 micrograms a week is if you are treating B12 deficiency. If you remember from my previous video, B12 deficiency is treated with 1,000 micrograms a day for a month or more, as shown below and at 4:35 in my video, and that could potentially trigger acne. For example, a vegan woman who hadn’t been taking B12 developed a deficiency and had to be treated with such high doses of the vitamin that her face erupted in acne, as you can see at 4:49 in my video. All the more reason not to become B12-deficient in the first place. But, even if you do get B12 injections, the likelihood of it triggering acne may only be about one in ten. For background and my updated recommendations, see my extended look at vitamin B12 in the related posts below. All of these videos can be found in one digital download. Check out Latest Vitamin B12 Recommendations. I previously explored vitamin B12’s role in stroke risk, which you can also see in the related posts below. That series is available for digital download, too: Why Do Vegetarians Have Higher Stroke Risk?. Up next is Do Vitamin B12 Supplements Cause Bone Fractures and Lung Cancer?. Key Takeaways Acne may stem from humans having evolved a beneficial trait for childbirth: extra sebaceous glands on our scalp, face, and back to provide lubrication that could help during delivery. In Westernized societies, acne is nearly universal among teens, but in populations with “traditional” diets, acne is rare or non-existent. High glycemic foods and dairy products are significant exacerbating factors. Eliminating acne-triggering foods like dairy and processed carbohydrates may take 10 to 12 weeks to show results, so patience is required when making dietary changes. High doses of vitamin B12, especially through injections, can trigger acne by altering bacterial activity on the skin, although this is relatively uncommon. Regular, lower-dose B12 supplementation is recommended for vegans to avoid deficiency and reduce the risk of B12-induced acne, which occurs mostly with high-dose treatments. To read the original article click here.

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Cystic Acne Treatment Through Dietary Changes & Beyond

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:11:16 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever had large, red, painful breakouts? These cystic acne breakouts can affect both men and women as young as 8 or as old 50. The face is the most common and concerning area of occurrence, but other problem areas can include the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders. Cystic acne, which is way worse than just any old pimple, is actually the most severe form of acne possible. Common medical treatment for cystic acne might work, but some have very serious side effects. A natural way to fight cystic acne is to address the gut-skin connection with the use of probiotics through food, supplements and home remedies for acne. In fact, way back in 1961, a case report found that out of 300 acne patients given a probiotic, 80 percent had clinical improvement. Read on to learn how you can naturally treat your cystic acne and have clear skin once again. What Is Cystic Acne? Also called nodulocystic acne and similar to nodular acne, cystic acne is an intense form of acne that results in large, inflamed cysts and nodules that appear on the skin. Unlike other milder forms of acne, cystic acne is noticeably painful and occurs when oil and dead skin cells build up deep down in hair follicles or pores. Cystic acne is most common during puberty for young boys, but sadly, it can continue into the adult years, especially when there is a hormonal imbalance. For adult women, it’s common to to experience cystic acne around their menstrual cycles, especially on the the jawline and chin, which are the common areas for hormonally motivated breakouts. It’s more serious than hormonal acne, which occurs with both men and women when undergoing significant hormonal changes, such as aging, pregnancy or stress. In contrast, cystic acne can happen at any age because of dietary sensitivities and an overproduction of sebum. Symptoms Acne vulgaris is the medical name for common acne. Acne conglobata, or cystic acne, is a more serious and rarer form of acne that occurs mainly in young men, but it can affect people of both sexes and various ages. When you have cystic acne, your skin’s pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It becomes cystic acne when the pore ruptures underneath the skin, which causes the inflammation to spill out into the surrounding skin tissue. This chain reaction can continue in the skin, triggering wider inflammation, spreading more acne bacteria and more breakouts. Next, your body forms a cyst around the area to stop the inflammation from spreading further. Symptoms of cystic acne include: large, red and painful breakouts on the face, chest, back, upper arms, shoulders and/or thighs nodules that appear as raised, red bumps that generally do not have whiteheads showing — they can resemble a keloid lesions that are usually felt beneath the skin before they’re seen more visible acne that produces cysts and nodules in addition to papules and pustules breakouts that are painful to the touch or even when not touched decrease in self-esteem and mood and increase in psychological distress, especially when cystic acne occurs on the face The unique appearance of a cystic acne is due to the acute damage to the oil gland causing intense inflammation and irritation, which leads to redness, swelling and soreness. Cystic acne is easy to diagnose by a dermatologist and does not require any special tests. Causes Cystic acne can be caused by or related to: Genetics Hormonal changes, including polycystic ovary syndrome High levels of humidity and sweating Pore-clogging and irritating face and body care products Some drugs and chemicals (for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, isoniazid), which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne Cystic acne often runs in families. If one or both of your parents had severe cystic acne, then you have a greater chance of having it as well. It’s most common in teenage boys and young men. It’s believed that hormones called androgens can play a part in the development of cystic acne in teens when there is an increase in androgens. This increase leads to changes in your skin that can result in clogged pores and acne. Cystic acne doesn’t only affect men, though. For women, hormone changes that trigger cystic acne can be brought on by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. Conventional Treatment Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, but over-the-counter remedies aren’t always enough to treat this form of acne. If any, benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial treatment that is most often used to treat acne and may help less severe cystic acne. Instead, many people opt to see a dermatologist in order to get diagnosed and then prescribed medications to treat cystic acne. The most effective conventional medicine for cystic acne is isotretinoin (Accutane), which actually is derived from vitamin A. While most people experience a reduction in acne lesion counts, adverse events are common, especially overly dry skin, mood issues and decreased appetite. If the cystic acne covers a lot of skin, a dermatologist may want to prescribe oral antibiotics. While these can work against the inflammation and bacteria, they don’t address the excess oil or dead skin cells. Because of antibiotic resistance, they should only be used in the short term, if at all. Topical retinoids also may be used and are related to vitamin A, but in general they’re not sufficient to address cystic acne. They can also make your skin red and peel — plus make it very vulnerable to sunburn. Another prescription medication is spironolactone (Aldactone), a diuretic that usually is used for edema as well as high blood pressure. It’s also used for acne but mostly just women who have acne around their jawline. Its side effects can be serious and should not be taken if planning to become pregnant. Natural Remedies 1. Avoid these foods Conventional Dairy: Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, conventional dairy products can be hard on the digestive system. Many people see an improvement in their acne when they cut down or eliminate dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream. If you want to check if dairy is a culprit, try eliminating it from your diet for two weeks to see if your cystic acne improves. If it does, then you know that dairy is not agreeing with you. You can choose to remain dairy-free, or you can slowly reintroduce dairy back into your diet. Choosing better-quality dairy can be helpful as well. Sugar: Sugar and other high-glycemic foods (like breads and pasta) can make inflammation in your body worse. The more inflammation you have, the worse your cystic acne will be. Try natural sweeteners instead. Consuming excess amounts of sugar and grain products can also feed yeast and candida in the body, increasing the presence of acne on the skin. Caffeine and chocolate: Many experts like to say that there is no link between caffeine and chocolate consumption and breakouts. However, there is no doubt that caffeine consumption has a direct impact on your hormonal balance. In particular, caffeine overdose can raise the stress hormone known as cortisol, which can cause cortisol face. By reducing or eliminating various sources of caffeine, like coffee, tea and chocolate, you can help keep your hormones in better balance and clear up your cystic acne. Low-fiber, highly processed foods: Consuming foods that are low in fiber and highly processed has a direct negative effect on your gut health, which negatively impacts skin health. When you consume processed meat products like cold cuts, breakfast cereals and microwave meals, an unhealthy shift occurs in your inner microbial colonies. This sets off inflammation throughout your entire body, which can bring on a cystic acne flare-up or make any current acne even worse. Fried and fast foods: These foods are also highly processed and low in fiber. Additionally, they contain a number of ingredients that cause inflammation, including hydrogenated oils, sodium, chemicals, flavorings and sugar. 2. Eat these foods Probiotic-rich foods: The healthier your gut is, the better your balance of good versus bad bacteria. When you consume probiotic-rich foods like kefir and cultured vegetables, the probiotics line your gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier that prevents inflammation that can trigger acne. One Korean study of 56 acne patients found that drinking a Lactobacillus-fermented dairy beverage effectively reduced their total acne lesion count and decreased oil production over 12 weeks. High-zinc foods: People with acne tend to be low in zinc so you definitely want to increase your dietary intake of zinc by consuming things like grass-fed beef, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and cashews to prevent a zinc deficiency. Zinc also supports a healthy digestive tract, which improves skin health. Vitamin A-rich foods: Foods high in vitamin A, like kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots, fight infection and speed healing, two things you definitely need when you’re trying to get rid of cystic acne. Fiber-rich foods: Consuming high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and oatmeal encourages colon cleansing as well as the growth of good bacteria in the gut, both of which can help eliminate cystic acne. High-quality protein foods: Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, wild-caught fish and free-range eggs are high in protein and nutrients and help balance blood sugar, a key component in the fight against cystic acne. Liver-supportive foods: Since hormones are processed in the liver, eating liver-supportive foods can help clear up acne. Eat more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower as well as leafy greens and high-fiber fruits, such as pears and apple, for improved liver function. 3. Consider taking these supplements Probiotics (10,000 IU to 50,000 IU daily, typically two to three capsules twice daily) — Taking probiotics can boost your immunity and help your internal fight against cystic acne. You can also use probiotic skin care products, which can provide a protective external shield. Studies show that probiotics may help prevent skin eruptions. Omega-3 fatty acids (1,000 milligrams of fish oil/cod liver oil daily or 3,000 milligrams of flaxseed or chia seed oil) — Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation and support hormone balance. One scientific study specifically found that after 10 weeks of omega-3 fatty acid or GLA supplementation, inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions decreased significantly. Zinc (25–30 milligrams twice daily) — Research suggests that people with acne have lower blood and skin levels of zinc. Taking zinc by mouth may help reduce acne. Vitex (160 milligrams of Vitex/chasteberry) — This herbal remedy is specifically recommended for hormonally induced acne. Guggul or guggulsterone (25 milligrams twice daily) — Guggul is made from the sap of a tree native to India. For individuals suffering from cystic acne, a controlled clinical trial found that guggul supplements outperformed 500 milligrams of tetracycline. It’s also been shown to be effective for nodulocystic acne, a similar form of acne that usually targets the face, chest and back. 4. Consider essential oils Essential oils like tea tree and lavender can help fight cystic acne. The best way to use essential oils for acne is to apply two to three drops topically to the area of concern. Tea tree and lavender essential oils are safe for neat (direct) application, but they can also be combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil if you have sensitive skin. A scientific review of the efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action in regard to the treatment of acne with tea tree oil states that tea tree products reduce lesion numbers in patients with acne, have tolerability levels that are similar to other topical treatments, and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that are associated with the treatment of acne. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight when treating acne with essential oils. The UV rays can make your skin more sensitive and may lead to skin irritations or redness. If using any of these essential oils causes skin irritation, discontinue use of that oil. Skin Care Tips 1. No popping Whatever you...

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Witch Hazel Uses for Skin, Hair & More

The AHA! Team — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:41:04 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Today, we have hundreds of different beauty products available to us — acne washes, toners, scrubs, etc. — but what did people use thousands of years ago before commercial chemicals existed to help heal their skin? When it comes to natural skin care, one time-honored medicinal plant is witch hazel, which Native Americans relied on for fighting swelling, sores and infections. There may be no plant more beneficial to your skin, as research showcases the many advantages witch hazel provides. What is witch hazel good for? Thanks to its astringent properties, it’s one of the most effective natural acne treatments known to man — and it’s even been shown to help protect against skin cancer. Other benefits include naturally reducing blisters, insect bites, poison ivy, inflammation, hemorrhoids, toothaches and much more. So if you’re looking for cleaner, healthier skin with the help from a natural product, look no further than witch hazel. What Is Witch Hazel? The witch hazel plant (which has the species name Hamamelis virginiana) is a type of plant native to North America and a member of the Hamamelidaceae plant family. Sometimes also called winterbloom, the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant are used to make a skin-healing astringent. Does witch hazel kill germs? Yes, this multi-purpose product has many uses, including killing bacteria that can live within skin’s pores. The most popular use is for skin care, since its strong antioxidant and astringent properties can keep acne, wrinkles and more at bay. It can also help stop cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer, while preventing signs of aging and speeding up healing. When it comes to the products that you apply directly to your skin, you always want to treat the surface of your body how you would the inside: Avoid as many chemicals and toxins as possible. Witch hazel offers benefits over other beauty products because it’s completely natural and free of environmental pollutants, irritating ingredients, fake fragrances and other contaminants. How Witch Hazel Works How can witch hazel do so much? High levels of healing active ingredients reduce inflammation, cellular damage and swelling, while also soothing wounds. The bark, twigs and leaves of the plant are used to extract active constituents called polyphenols and tannins. They’re then added to either alcohol or water to make a concentrated product called witch hazel water, Hamamelis water or distilled witch hazel extract. Tannins are responsible for making witch hazel extract a natural astringent, since they remove excess oil from skin. This is the reason why witch hazel is one of the most popular natural acne treatments worldwide and is used in dozens of over-the-counter treatment gels, washes and lotions. Studies also show that tannins from witch hazel can be used to make plant-based antivirals, such as to fight the flu and other illnesses. In addition to tannins, witch hazel is high in compounds called “gallate esters,” which include proanthocyanidins that have antiviral effects, hydrolyzable tannins (galloylated sugars) and methyl gallate. Witch hazel extract is considered to be polyphenolic and has been shown to help inhibit cell proliferation in cancerous human cells. Studies show that it is capable of stopping mutated cell cycles and inducing apoptosis (death of dangerous cells). Because witch hazel is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it’s effective as a “free radical scavenger.” This means it helps protect against DNA damage and tumor growth. Oxidative stress and free radical damage build up over time from exposure to things like UV light, pollution, a poor diet, stress and so on. Plants like witch hazel that are high in polyphenols are the same kind used to create anti-aging nutritional supplements that slow down disease development by protecting cells. Uses Witch hazel has been used for centuries to naturally help treat and prevent: acne skin sores bruises redness and swelling ingrown hairs psoriasis or eczema oily skin excess sweating varicose veins cracked or blistered skin insect bites poison ivy irritated scalp sunburn and melanoma razor burn (such as in a DIY aftershave) mucous membrane inflammation hemorrhoids allergic reactions Recent studies even show that the tannins found in witch hazel may exert a protective action against colon cancer cells. The skin is our largest and most vulnerable organ, so it could use all the support it can get. Skin is our natural barrier to the outside world and provides us with protection against UV radiation, chemicals in our food supply, bacteria and other germs, and environmental pollutants. All of the “stress” that our bodies deal with every day, both internally and externally, show up on our skin in the form of aging, puffiness, infections, inflammation and sensitivities. That’s why we rely on eating and using natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories to help curb inflamed and diseased cells. Herbal plant therapies for skin disorders have been used for thousands of years, and today many traditional herbs are being reintroduced, studied extensively and experiencing a resurgence in popularity since many chemical treatments don’t always work or have harsh side effects. Benefits 1. Reduces Acne What does witch hazel do for acne? As a natural home remedy for acne, applying witch hazel to acne-prone skin can help slow down bacteria growth and decrease inflammation, redness, oiliness and bleeding. Can you clean your face with witch hazel? Yes, since it’s a natural cleanser, it’s capable of reducing bacteria growth on the skin and speeds up the time needed to heal infections or scabs. Another benefit for sensitive skin is that it reduces the look of pores (although no product can actually shrink pores) and helps stop excess oil production, sweating, and development of blackheads or whiteheads, which can contribute to breakouts and tempt you to pick at your skin. You can skip irritating acne products and turn to witch hazel to lower the severity of blemishes forming under the skin and prevent blackheads caused by dried sebum buildup in pores. How long does witch hazel take to clear acne? It depends on how severe someone’s acne is. It may take effect in just several days or take several weeks. Does witch hazel get rid of acne scars? It can help, due to its anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Applying some can help stop swelling and redness if you already picked at your acne. It can also curb signs of past irritations and deal with skin infections that may result from picking. 2. Fights Signs of Aging and Damage from Sun Exposure What does witch hazel do to your face? Does witch hazel fade dark spots? Can it tighten skin? If you’re looking for a natural way to firm up your skin and slow down signs of aging like scars, redness, discoloration, dryness and puffiness around the eyes, then look no further than witch hazel. It tightens skin and is protective against skin cancer, melanoma and other damage caused by UV light because of its protective polyphenols and tannin antioxidants. These inhibit the proliferation of melanoma cells and help protect healthy skin cells into older age. Use it to keep your skin free from irritating chemical products that can alter oil production and increase dryness. Witch hazel has been shown to help protect collagen and skin elasticity just as well as many commercial beauty products. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a great way to preserve skin’s elasticity, saving your complexion and helping you deal with the effects of environmental stress on your skin. And because using witch hazel for your pores helps them look smaller, this can make your skin appear more even. 3. Treats Insect Bites Many bug repellents, DIY bug sprays and commercial products used for treating insect bites contain witch hazel. Wondering how to get rid of mosquito bites? People turn to witch hazel to reduce the effects of bug bites, such as pain and swelling from stings, allergies and irritations. Certain studies have found that applying witch hazel cream to skin irritations can curb symptoms just as well as synthetic chemical creams, including dexpanthenol, which is often used to fight skin irritations in children. It can also be used to help speed up healing scabs or minor cuts because witch hazel extract contains isopropyl alcohol, which is another natural disinfecting ingredient that kills bacteria and helps prevent infections. 4. Cleanses Hair and Protect the Scalp To get rid of greasy hair, use witch hazel on your hair to help reduce oil buildup. This leaves your hair shinier, healthier and more volumized. It’s also great for removing hair odors, helping with an irritated scalp, or speeding up healing from any bites or acne at the base of the neck when you’re prone to sweating. One study conducted by the Center for Dermatology and Disease in Zurich, Switzerland, found that shampoo containing witch hazel extract helped soothe patients’ irritated scalps, redness, itching and inflammation. After testing the effects of witch hazel on 1,373 patients, a percentage of patients reported improvement in symptoms and better tolerance of other hair products. 5. Prevents Ingrown Hairs and Rashes After shaving, you can apply witch hazel to any part of the body to slow bleeding from nicks or cuts, prevent bacteria growth and infections within hair follicles, soothe razor burn, and prevent ingrown hairs from forming. Some people also like to use the toner along with other healing essential oils on skin after waxing to reduce pain, swelling and bleeding. 6. Stops Ear Infections from Developing Since witch hazel is an effective antibacterial, and “swimmer’s ear” or other ear infections are usually caused by bacterial infections, it’s a natural way to treat irritations within the ear canal. Witch hazel helps clear up bacteria overgrowth and infections within the ear; dry up oil, pus and excess sweat; break up wax; and even remove odor. To clean the outside of the ears, apply several drops to a swab and rub around the inside of the ears. 7. Soothes a Sore Throat Some people like sipping on witch hazel tea (not witch hazel water or a drink made with extract, which contains isopropyl alcohol) to soothe an irritated, infected or sore throat. The natural astringent properties make it beneficial for fighting illnesses that affect the throat, while its soothing properties lower pain and discomfort caused by coughs, strep throat, sore throat, sinus infections, tonsillitis or other throat problems. 8. Stops Pet Odor and Bug Bites Witch hazel can stop excess bacteria from forming on the surface of your pet’s skin, including in wounds or bites, which can lead to odor. It is non-irritating to pets, helps prevent them from getting bug bites by repelling mosquitoes and other insects, can slow down itching or bleeding, and helps cleanse their skin. 9. Treats Hemorrhoids Witch hazel also performs as a hemorrhoids home remedy. You can apply witch hazel water to the skin to help lower pain and inflammation caused by uncomfortable hemorrhoids. It’s useful for relieving itching, irritation, bleeding and burning from hemorrhoids as well. 10. Protects Your Mouth, Lips and Gums If you have blisters on your lips, inner cheeks or gums, turn to witch hazel to speed healing and get rid of pain and swelling. It’s safe to apply the extract to the inside of your mouth to slow down bleeding, blisters, sores, bad breath odors and infections of the gums, especially when combined with other healing oils like coconut oil or peppermint oil. Witch hazel also helps relieve pain from toothaches or teething in infants, prevent infection after oral surgery, and fight bleeding and inflammation from mouth sores. How to Use Look for witch hazel in pharmacies, health food stores, stores that sell beauty products or online. Extract derived from the witch hazel plant can be used topically (on the surface of the skin) or taken internally just like medicine. Depending on how you use witch hazel, it can help stop manage skin conditions like acne and skin redness or other types of issues like diarrhea, colds, mucus colitis, vomiting, coughing, the flu and more. The most...

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The Power of Beeswax Lowers Both Pain & Cholesterol

AHA Publisher — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 07:00:55 +0000

Kyra Oliver via Dr. Axe – It’s simply beautiful how Earth’s creatures, specifically bees, can make the most wonderful structures. Take, for instance, the honeycomb. It’s even more amazing when such a structure produces something that provides many uses and benefits for everyday life — enter beeswax. This amazing substance comes from worker honeybees — the females — and the honeycomb, and it’s commonly used for lowering cholesterol and relieving pain. It’s also used for swelling and inflammation, and of course, it helps produce different forms of raw honey, including the highly beneficial Manuka honey. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, seeing that it’s another bee byproduct, but bee pollen is also beneficial. So what is natural beeswax, and what can it do to promote better health? Let’s take a look at this natural product’s biggest benefits and uses. What Is Beeswax? Beeswax is the foundation of the beehive. Honeybees build their comb from beeswax and fill the geometric shape of the hexagonal cells with honey and brood. Worker bees then secrete wax from eight special wax glands on the underside of their abdomens. The wax is exuded as a liquid but quickly cools and solidifies. The worker bee collects the wax from her abdomen with her legs. She masticates the wax until it’s pliable and shapes it into the hexagonal cells that make up the honeycomb. Bees are so important to our health and overall existence. Did you know that we rely on bees for nearly a third of our entire food supply? We also greatly benefit from all the fibers, spices and medicines that come from the plants they pollinate. This produces a great appreciation for our bees, and the list continues. Bees affect more than just our food and medicines. Honeybees are connected with several critical issues for human and environmental health, including biodiversity, food security, nutrition and sustainable land use. A world without bees would not be possible since the health of the honeybee is a critical step to sustainable agriculture. Using beeswax is nothing new. It has been used in medicine for thousands of years. A unique discovery was its use as dental filling. Evidence has been found of prehistoric dentistry dating back to the Neolithic times reporting a 6,500-year-old human mandible from Slovenia whose left canine crown shows the traces of a filling with beeswax. While we don’t know all the facts, it’s thought that if the filling was done when the person was still alive, the intervention was likely aimed to relieve tooth sensitivity derived from either exposed dentine and/or the pain resulting from chewing on a cracked tooth. This is fascinating because it would provide the earliest known direct evidence of a therapeutic-palliative dental filling. Beeswax Benefits/Uses 1. Treats Diaper Dermatitis, Psoriasis and Eczema Beeswax is a great choice for many skin conditions. A honey, beeswax and olive oil mixture (you can easily make at home) is useful in the treatment of diaper dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. A study conducted by the Dubai Specialized Medical Center and Medical Research Labs Islamic Establishment for Education was designed to investigate the effects of these three substances and the mixture on growth of Staphylococcus aureus and candida albicans isolated from human specimens. The study conducted two experiments: one where a honey mixture was poured on holes made on plates seeded with Staphylococcus aureus or candida and two where the microorganisms were cultured onto media made of the honey mixture alone, nutrient agar-honey mixture and Sabouraud glucose agar-honey mixture. Ultimately, the study concludedthat honey and the honey mixtures could inhibit growth of bacteria that may affect the skin and cause skin conditions. 2. Moisturizes Skin Natural beeswax is an amazing way to moisturize the skin and is commonly found in skin care products and cosmetics. It can help protect and repair rough, dry or chapped skin because it has the ability to lock in moisture. In the book “How to Use Beeswax and Honey to Cure Skin Problems,” author Gene Ashburner explains that this wax is rich in vitamin A and has emollient properties, which soften and rehydrate the skin as well as aid in the healthy development of cellular reconstruction. Another benefit is that, because it is noncomedogenic, it won’t clog pores. In addition to being a natural moisturizer that treats dry skin, you can use it at home daily to help prevent dry skin in the first place. Just combine beeswax with almond oil or jojoba oil, a few drops of vitamin E oil, and aloe to prepare a homemade remedy for dry skin. 3. Protects the Liver In 2013, the Korean Journal of Internal Medicine published a study that investigated the alcohols found in honeycomb and if their antioxidant effects helped protect the liver. Researchers conducted the study using a mixture of beeswax alcohol to evaluate the safety and effectiveness in people with fatty liver disease. The study took place over a period of 24 weeks, finding that it helped normalize liver function and improve symptoms of fatty liver. 4. Helps Balance Cholesterol Levels Research reveals that very long-chain fatty alcohols obtained from plant waxes have been reported to lower cholesterol in humans. In the findings, the nutritional or regulatory effects produced by wax esters or aliphatic acids and alcohols found in unrefined cereal grains, beeswax and many plant-derived foods helped lower LDL cholesterol by 21 percent to 29 percent and raise HDL cholesterol by 8 percent to 15 percent. 5. Relieves Pain and Is Anti-Inflammatory As medicine, beeswax has been studied in the use of relieving pain and inflammation and has been found to have mild anti-swelling effects. A 2014 study published in the Korean Journal of Internal Medicine reports that it was used to helped relieve inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. All randomized patients completed the study, and 23 experienced a reduction in pain, joint stiffness and physical function. These reductions were significant beginning in the second week and became enhanced during the trial. 6. Helps Clear Acne Beeswax is one of the most well-known home remedies for acne. Research indicates that it has strong antiseptic, healing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in the treatment of acne, in particular because it contains vitamin A. It’s also an excellent skin softener and emollient that helps maintain a smooth skin texture after acne elimination. The combination of skin care applications, a healthy diet and daily exercise is the best way to control and prevent acne. 7. Treats Dry, Cracked Lips The natural moisturizers in beeswax make it the perfect lip balm. If you suffer from cracked or chapped lips, topical applications of natural beeswax and a few other ingredients you likely already have at home can provide some much-needed relief. It’s easy to make your own lip balm by combining it with coconut or olive oil, honey, vitamin E oil, and your favorite essential oils, such as orange, peppermint, lavender or lemon. 8. Reduces Stretch Marks Stretch marks can be embarrassing and prevent you from wearing some of your favorite summer fashions, so if you’re wondering how to get rid of stretch marks, you may want to try beeswax. Due to its ability to protect the skin and retain water, it can have positive effects on those unsightly marks. A study conducted by the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology Research Institute at Yonsei University College of Medicine in Korea reports that stretch marks are dermal atrophic scars with epidermal thinning due to decreased collagen and elastic fiber. The study suggests that collagen is a major extracellular matrix component that’s very important in wound healing. Since beeswax contains vitamin A, which is helpful in collagen production, it can greatly benefit the reduction of stretch marks. By combining beeswax, royal jelly, shea or cocoa butter, grapeseed oil, and coconut oil, you have a natural at-home remedy for preventing and treating stretch marks, while helping improve collagen levels simultaneously. 9. Helps Treat Jock Itch and Fungal Skin Infections Jock itch and fungal skin infections are definitely annoying, but they can be treated using beeswax. Because it’s anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce the pain associated with jock itch and fungal skin infections, while providing moisturizing benefits to help reduce the itching. Applying a mixture of beeswax, honey and olive oil to the affected area three times daily for four weeks may help improve jock itch and fungal skin infections. 10. Relieves Stress and Promotes Relaxation It’s common to think of beeswax candles when you think of beeswax. This is a good thing since candles made from paraffin can endanger your health and that of your family due to the soot from paraffin wax that can be inhaled. Also, it can cause significant damage to the inside of your house, such as your computers, electrical appliances and ductwork. Instead, opt for these pure or natural candles, which work well as stress relievers. If making your own candles, you want to check labels to make sure you get organic, pure beeswax so it’s toxin-free. You can order pure beeswax in bulk by the pound if you’re planning to make several candles. If you’re buying already-made beeswax candles, choosing 100 percent beeswax candles with cotton wicks is definitely the best choice. In addition to the above benefits and uses, there are some additional uses for honey and beeswax. The color of beeswax will vary, with three major beeswax products: yellow beeswax, white beeswax and beeswax absolute. Yellow beeswax is the crude product obtained from the honeycomb, which isn’t filtered and has a natural color. White beeswax is made from yellow beeswax by bleaching, and beeswax absolute is made by treating yellow beeswax with alcohol. It’s often found for purchase in the form of pellets or pastilles, which have a deep golden color and can be purchased in bulk by the pound. With an average dimension of three millimeters per pastille, beeswax sometimes has a smoky, aroma. Beeswax for hair is one of the top tools used by those who are looking to develop dreadlocks because it helps give the hair a nice firm hold while moisturizing it without a greasy look or feel. If you are using it for food preparation, the easiest way to work with it is to put it in the freezer for a few hours and then grate it. In many foods and beverages, white beeswax and beeswax absolute are used as stiffening agents. In manufacturing, yellow and white beeswax are used as thickeners, emulsifiers and stiffening agents in cosmetics. However, pure beeswax is most commonly used to make the salves and moisturizers that are used externally. Beeswax absolute is typically used as a fragrance in soaps and perfumes. White beeswax and beeswax absolute are also used to polish pills. The yellow beeswax is the form we love the most because of its natural, pure state. Regardless, make sure you check the ingredients and directions prior to using any form of it, and if you have an allergy that may be related, don’t use it. Related: Eucalyptus Leaves Benefits, Uses & Side Effects (Plus How to Grow) Recipes There are many ways you can use this bee product, including the following recipes: Homemade Beeswax Lotion Homemade Probiotic Deodorant Homemade Lavender Mint Lip Balm Homemade Frankincense and Myrrh Lotion Risks and Side Effects Beeswax is considered safe when taken by mouth in small amounts, but it should not be consumed in large amounts because it can cause digestive issues. It is possible to have a beeswax allergy, which can cause a rash, redness, itching and swelling. Beeswax is considered safe when used topically, but some people may be sensitive to it or even experience allergy symptoms. If you notice a skin rash or redness after using beeswax or a product containing it, discontinue use immediately. It’s important to check with your doctor prior to using it in any form, especially if you’re pregnant, breast-feeding or taking medications. Conclusion We rely on bees for nearly a third of our entire food supply. We also greatly benefit from all the fibers, spices and medicines that come from the plants they pollinate. Using beeswax is nothing new. There’s evidence that it was used...

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