how to get rid of blemishes

Do you love to flaunt a flawless skin? But those pesky marks on your face are taking away all your glory? We understand.

Blemishes appear as marks, dark spots or discolouration that may deal a blow to the look and feel of your skin. But, on the bright side, they can be treated with age-old Ayurvedic solutions.

Scroll down to know what causes blemishes, its different types and how you can effectively treat them with natural remedies.

What Are Blemishes?

A blemish is usually any type of visible flaw, discolouration, spot or mark which appears on your skin's surface. It may appear in any part of your body. Any blemish on your face can be emotionally disturbing and give you anxiety, however, most of them are harmless and benign in nature. Only a few specific types of blemishes may be a symptom of skin cancer [1].

Following simple yet effective Ayurvedic treatments and home remedies may greatly help you to minimize and prevent the appearance of such blemishes on your face or elsewhere in your body.

What Causes Blemishes On The Face?

1. Viruses

A few types of blemishes such as cold sores are a result of viral attack by HSV-1. Chickenpox occurs due to the viral attack of varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

2. Infections

Specific skin infections may result in blemishes to appear on your skin. Fungal acne is a type of skin infection which affects your hair follicles. Also called Malassezia Folliculitis, the fungal acne occurs due to excessive growth of yeast which results in pustule formation in the infected region.

3. Genetics

A few genetic conditions may also lead to the appearance of blemishes on your face. These include:

A. Fabry disease:

It is a genetic disorder which occurs due to gene mutation. A common symptom is a cluster of red, dark spots on the skin [2].

B. Adult type 3 GM1 Gangliosides:

It is a rare, genetic disorder that results in the formation of noncancerous blemishes in the lower part of the body.

C. Darier disease:

The genetic condition leads to the appearance of wart like blemishes which are difficult to touch, smelly and oily in nature.

4. Sun Exposure

Excessive exposure to the skin damaging ultraviolet A and B rays may lead to hyperpigmentation, skin cancer, and several other types of skin issues.

5. Clogged Pores

Excessive secretion of natural oils by your skins' sebaceous glands may result in the appearance of blemishes. Hormonal fluctuations usually cause the excessive production of natural oils, especially during puberty. This overproduction of natural oils tend to mix with bacteria, dirt, or dead skin cells, ultimately causing the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, and pimples on your face.

Your skin pores can also get clogged due to the use of skin products such as moisturizers, creams, sunscreen, serums or makeup. Try and select skin products which have natural and herbal formulations. Also, use non comedogenic products as they are light on your skin and don't clog your skin pores.

Synthetic and chemical-based hair styling products can clog your skin pores too if they mistakenly get onto your face.

External factors such as pollution, car exhaust, and dirt also layer your skin, mix with the natural oils and clog your skin pores. When frequently touching your face with your hands, you tend to transfer bacteria and dirt onto your face.

6. Diet

It is a universal truth that what you eat reflects on your skin and overall health. Contact dermatitis and food allergies may lead to bumps and skin irritation. In few individuals, consumption of dairy products like skimmed milk can cause acne breakouts. A dietary [3] plan high in carbohydrates and sugar can also result in the appearance of blemishes on your face.

7. Medications

A few over the counter and prescription drugs may lead to the appearance of acne. These drugs include:

• Anti Seizure medications
• Lithium
• Androgenic steroids
• Corticosteroids

Acne breakouts on your forehead appear due to clogged pores, whereas spots around your mouth/chin appear due to hormonal imbalance.

Types Of Blemishes On The Face

The word blemish broadly describes any type of spot or mark on your skin. There are various types of blemishes which include:

1. Acne

It is a common skin condition which affects the majority of individuals. It may appear as:

• Whiteheads
• Blackheads
• Pimples

When dirt, bacteria, or natural oils (sebum) clogs your skin pores, it leads to the formation of acne. It may leave scarring, pockmarks or dark spots on your skin. These are also considered as types of marks on your skin.

Hormonal imbalances are considered to play a key role in the appearance of acne. Stress and anxiety also tend to make your existing acne worse as they increase the production of sebum in the skin. However, they aren't recognized as the primary cause of acne.

2. Papules

There are different types of papules, which are small lesions that appear on your skin. Generally, they are one centimetre in size. Papules can appear as pink, red or brown lesions. Acne is also considered as a type of papule. They can either appear in clusters or alone and vary in shape. The examples of papules include:

• Shingles
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Chickenpox rashes

3. Nodules

A group of tissues clumped together is known as a nodule. They are generally 1-2 centimetres in size and are difficult to touch. These can form in all the layers of your skin. From pink, red to flesh-coloured, nodules can appear in a range of colours. Warts and skin tags are classified under nodules.

4. Pustules

They are pus-filled or fluid-filled bumps which show up on your skin. Chickenpox rashes and whiteheads are examples of pustules. Some specific health issues may lead to the formation of pustules such as scabies and rosacea, wherein blisters appear along with visible blood capillaries.

5. Liver Spots (Age Spots)

Age spots [4] are dark, small marks that may appear on any area of your body which has been exposed to direct sunlight. They commonly occur in individuals who are 50 and above. However, they may also appear in younger individuals. It is a category of hyperpigmentation.

6. Ingrown Hair

Certain hair removal methods like shaving, waxing or tweezing may lead to the formation of ingrown hair. The hair, when pulled incorrectly, tends to grow inside the skin and doesn't come out. This finally results in the appearance of a red bump. Those with wavy or curly hair experience ingrown hair more frequently than people with poker straight hair.

It can also lead to the formation of fluid-filled, large cysts with ingrown hair. These cysts can be white, yellow, or red in colour. The cysts can be painful and uncomfortable.

7. Birthmarks

They usually appear at the time of birth or quickly afterwards. Birthmarks can vary in their colour, shape, size, and appearance. Wine stains and moles are examples of birthmarks which are life-long marks. Salmon patches and haemangiomas usually fade away with passing time.

8. Melasma

This is a very common type of blemish which appears during pregnancy. The blemish appears as brown-coloured patches due to hormonal changes and sun exposure.

9. Skin Cancer

Skin cancer manifests in different forms and types which include:

• Malignant melanoma
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma

These can vary in colour and appearance. A few types of skin cancer appear as dark moles with misshapen outlines. A few others appear as raised red bumps or yellow scabs.

10. Cysts

There are various types of cysts which include:

• Sebaceous cysts
• Ganglion cysts
• Epidermoid cysts

These are non-cancerous (benign) skin sacs which are filled with fluid. They form round bumps of differing sizes either under or on your skin.

11. Scars

Scars usually form when the middle layer (dermis) of your skin becomes damaged. In the mid layer of the skin, nerve endings, hair follicles, sweat glands, and blood capillaries are situated. When your skin is forced to open, it causes scarring like an injury, cut or acne.

12. Cold Sores

Cold sores are a result of HSV-1 viral attack, which is also known as herpes simplex virus type 1. They appear in or around your mouth in the form of fluid-filled rashes. These rashes or blisters may also itch. When these burst out, a yellow or red scab forms in the affected region until they completely heal.

13. Hyperpigmentation

Dark patches or uneven skin tone usually occurs when there is excessive melanin content in your skin. It may happen due to:

• Hormonal fluctuations like PCOS or pregnancy
• Acne scarring
• Sun exposure

Important Note:

Please consult a qualified doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner immediately if you have any questions or doubts regarding your skin blemish to avail the right treatment and management.

How To Get Rid Of Blemishes On The Face?

1. Home Remedies

A. Tomato Juice

As tomatoes are a powerhouse of antioxidants and vitamin C, they are considered as elixir for maintaining and repairing your skin. The freshly extracted juice aids in closing open pores from pimples and the astringent activity helps in resolving blemishes, giving you an even and clear complexion. It also helps in dissolving the dark spots due to its rich lycopene content which gradually fades away the stubborn marks on your skin.

How To Apply

• Gently massage your face and neck with freshly extracted juice from one tomato.
• Leave it for 15-20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Follow the same process for two weeks to see a visible difference.

B. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is renowned for its healing and regenerative properties, especially in curing and managing acne. Additionally, it also contains polysaccharides which help in the development of new skin cells [5] as well as aids in healing scars and blemishes.

How To Apply

• Take a single leaf of aloe vera and extract the pure gel from it by slicing through the exterior section.
• Apply the freshly extracted gel on your face and neck.
• Leave it to dry for 15 minutes and rinse with water.
• Keep repeating this process for a month and you will observe lightening of your scars and blemishes.

C. Egg White

Eggs are easily available and are a rich source of protein. Besides, the albumen contains natural enzymes which help to even out your complexion and resolve dark spots and scars.

How To Apply

• Take one egg, break it and separate the white from the egg yolk.
• Apply the albumen on your face and neck using a brush or your fingers.
• Leave it to dry for 20 minutes and rinse it with water.
• Follow the steps twice a week for 30 days to see your scars and blemishes fade away.

D. Honey

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of honey benefit your skin by fading away your scars and blemishes.

How To Apply

• Take one teaspoon of pure honey and apply it onto your face and neck.
• Allow it to dry for 15 minutes and rinse with water.
• Follow these steps to ensure a clear and glowing complexion, free of any blemishes.

E. Lemon

It is no surprise that freshly extracted juice of lemon acts as a natural bleaching ingredient which helps in lightening blemishes and scars on your skin.

How To Apply

• Take freshly extracted juice from half a lemon and apply it onto the affected area.
• Leave it for 10 minutes and wash off with water.
• Repeat the steps for 15 days and observe a visible difference on your face.

2. Ayurvedic Remedies

As per the ancient science of Ayurveda, dark spots and blemishes appear due to intrinsic factors (hormonal changes) as well as extrinsic factors (sun exposure). It is highly difficult to address blemishes and dark spots which appear due to intrinsic factors.

In order to treat and prevent blemishes, it is imperative to first identify which dosha (Pitta or Vata) is aggravated. This should be followed by a healthy diet plan that includes onion, masoor dal, pomegranates, amla, mango, bitter gourd and neem. Consumption of ghee and butter also helps in clearing your skin.

Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix, says, "Excessive use of Sugar and Salt in diet is the leading cause of blemishes, fine lines, and other skin troubles. Too much Salt and Sugar affect the lymphatic system which roughly correlates to Rasa dhatu which in ayurvedic wisdom maintains the health of skin and hair."

The holistic and traditional Ayurvedic approach involves various herbs and oils to address blemishes. You should consider using the following Ayurvedic remedies and ingredients to resolve your blemishes concerns naturally:

A. Kumkumadi Tailam

The potent Ayurvedic formulation is administered for treating and managing various skin conditions including aging, impaired, pigmented, dry and dull skin. This is a perfect remedy for resolving blemishes and scars from your skin. One of the main ingredients, saffron, aids in repairing pigmentation [6] and illuminating your complexion.

How To Apply

• Clean your face with a mild face cleanser and dab a little amount of pure rose water.
• Take around 4-5 drops of the Ayurvedic oil and apply it all over your face and neck.
• Gently massage your skin with your fingertips till the oil is completely absorbed.
• For best results, keep it overnight.

Vedix Tip:Remember to apply Kumkumadi Tailam only in the night and avoid applying it during the day. Since it contains saffron, it may darken your skin when exposed to sunlight.

B. Nalpamaradi Thailam

A potent pigmentation and skin brightening treatment in Ayurveda, Nalpamaradi oil contains Indian Madder, Gooseberry, Turmeric, Vetiver, and sesame oil. The presence of turmeric provides antioxidant properties which repairs and prevents scars, uneven complexion, and pigmentation.

How To Apply

• Take 4-5 drops of the Ayurvedic oil and gently massage it onto your face and neck till it is completely absorbed.
• Leave it for 30 minutes and rinse with a mild face cleanser.

Important Note:

Due to the presence of turmeric, the Ayurvedic oil may leave behind a yellow stain or tint on your face and neck. Hence, it is important to take adequate measures while using it and following your Ayurvedic practitioner's advice.

C. Eladi Taila

Known as an ideal and potent treatment for clear and glowing skin in Ayurveda, Eladi oil contains pure, natural herbs which are combined and processed with sesame oil and coconut milk. The Ayurvedic oil contains beneficial herbs such as cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom and costus, which are highly effective in improving your skin complexion. Additionally, it also helps in minimizing the signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines and nourishes your skin too.

How To Apply

• Take 4-5 drops of the Ayurvedic oil and gently massage it on your face and neck until it is completely absorbed.
• Leave it for 30 minutes and rinse with a mild face cleanser.

D. Amla Powder & Amla Juice

Amla is a rich source of Vitamin C and a natural digestive cleanse and blood purifier. Due to the high presence of antioxidants, Amla aids in effectively fighting and preventing inflammation. As a detoxifying drink, freshly extracted juice of amla can be consumed for its ability to clear and even out your skin tone.

How To Use

• Take around 3-4 whole amlas, cut them into small pieces and blend them together by adding a pinch of salt and half a glass of water.
• Consume this juice at least 1-2 times in a week for best results.

Amla powder combined with water makes a wonderful face pack which helps in reducing acne and lightening scars and blemishes. It also helps in enhancing the natural production of collagen in your skin.

How To Use

• Take a required amount of amla powder and add water to form a thick paste.
• Apply the pack onto your face and neck.
• Leave it for 20 minutes to dry and rinse with plain water.

E. Neem

In ancient Ayurvedic texts, neem [7] has always been extensively used in various herbal formulations due to its antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties.

How To Use

• Take a required amount of neem powder and add water to form a thick paste.
• Apply the paste onto the acne and acne scars present on your face.
• Leave it to dry for 20 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water.

The face pack helps in minimizing acne and even skin complexion. Additionally, you may use pure cold-pressed neem oil as a quick treatment for acne.

Application of neem oil on your face helps in effectively treating and managing acne. It also helps in the prevention of acne breakouts by tightening your skin pores, fighting acne-causing bacteria, and smoothening your skin tone.

F. Tulsi

Tulsi has played a key role in Ayurvedic science and medicine for centuries. It is known for its immunity-boosting and skin-nourishing properties. Additionally, it reduces and manages acne due to its antifungal properties.

How To Use

• Take a few leaves of tulsi and neem and grind them along with a few drops of freshly extracted juice of lemon.
• Apply the paste onto your face and neck.
• Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with water.

The face pack helps in unclogging your skin pores, removing impurities, and healing acne breakouts.

3. Medical Treatments

The medical approach must be decided by the primary cause of the scar or blemish. Please consult your doctor immediately if your blemish turns worse due to a specific course of medical intervention.

A. Acne Medications

There are several medications available in any drugstore which aid in eliminating or reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Also, various types of treatments are available including topical gels, astringents, and facial scrubs. If the OTC drugs don't show any results, then your doctor may ask you to take topical medication or oral antibiotics.

B. Salicylic Acid

Treatment plans containing salicylic acid aid in unclogging the pores in your skin.

C. Hydrocortisone Cream

Topical ointments and creams may minimize irritations and allergic reactions. Additionally, they also help in treating ingrown hair. Avoid any hair removal method while undergoing treatment for ingrown hair.

D. Sunscreen

Hats, sunglasses, full-sleeves clothing, and sunscreen ensure protection from the harmful UVA and UVB sun rays. They provide your skin complete protection from further damage.

E. Dermatological Treatments For Hyperpigmentation

There are various treatments and procedures that help in minimizing and removing age spots. These procedures include:

• Cryotherapy
• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy

F. Ointments For Hyperpigmentation

Prescription ointments made up of hydroquinone can help in lightening melasma, acne scarring, and age spots. These ingredients decrease the production of melanin in your skin.

Important Note:

We strongly recommend you consult a qualified dermatologist or Ayurvedic practitioner before following any medical or Ayurvedic treatment to avoid complications. All the above treatments, procedures and therapies should be followed under the supervision and guidance of experts.

How To Prevent Blemishes On The Face?

Now that you understand the causes, types, and treatments for blemishes, it is time to understand how you can easily prevent the appearance of blemishes on your face with a few easy and effective tips. These include:

1. Use A Facial Scrub

Irrespective of the type of blemish you have on your face, the most important step to improve your complexion is using a facial scrub that helps you to get rid of excessive oil secretion, dirt and impurities. It is important to cleanse and exfoliate your skin regularly for a healthy and blemish free skin. Remember to be gentle and careful while using a facial scrub. Depending on your skin type and concern, use a suitable facial scrub.

2. Avoid Picking Or Touching Your Blemishes

Stop touching your face frequently. Touching your face frequently may cause the bacteria and dirt to spread further on your skin, which may aggravate your existing condition and increase the time required for treatment.

3. Follow A Proper Skincare Regimen

Even though you may look for quick fixes and easy solutions to treat your blemish instantly, the truth is a proper and suitable skincare regime is the only solution to maintain your skin's health. Additionally, you should allow your skin some time to acclimatise to the treatment. It usually take 4-6 weeks for any treatment to show results.

4. Apply Steam On Your Face

Apply steam on your face for clear and blemish free skin. Pour boiling water in a bowl. Cover your upper body with a clean washcloth or towel and keep your face close to the bowl. Allow the steam to penetrate your skin for a few minutes. Avoid boiling the water for too long as the steam may irritate or burn your skin.

5. Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Keep your skin and body properly hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water. Remember to rehydrate yourself after a rigorous workout. When your skin loses its natural moisture, it tends to dry up. This leads to acne breakouts. Try to avoid the consumption of alcohol as it dehydrates your skin further and makes your existing acne worse.

6. Exercise Regularly

When you exercise, the blood flow in your body increases, including the vessels present under your facial skin. Additionally, sweating causes excessive sebum to come out which helps in preventing acne. After the completion of exercise, your facial skin is left with oxygenated blood flow which gives you a radiant and glowing skin.

7. Change Your Pillowcases & Towels

Always change your pillowcases, towels, and bed sheets on a regular basis. Avoid touching your face frequently with your hands. Clean your phone screen with sanitizer to eliminate any bacteria.

8. Avoid Oil-Based Skincare Products

Avoid using any oil-based skincare or makeup products, especially if you have an oily or acne-prone complexion. Creamy blush or foundation may end up clogging your skin pores. Try and use mineral-based makeup products which are powdery and light. Additionally, try using non comedogenic skincare products for better results.

9. Avoid Tan or Sunbathe

Don't fall for the myth which claims that tanning helps you to achieve a clear skin. Sunbathing exposes you to a host of risks such as wrinkles, premature aging, age spots, and skin cancer. Always remember to wear your sunscreen lotion and use a protective agent like hat or umbrella before stepping outside.

When To See A Dermatologist?

You may have to consult your doctor in case your blemish doesn't recede with treatment and time. The appearance of blemishes may also indicate a serious, underlying ailment. You should consider visiting a qualified dermatologist when the blemish:

• Begins to bleed
• Misshapen structure
• Changed in colour, texture, and size

These can be symptoms of skin cancer.

If the primary cause of your blemish is a virus, like chickenpox or cold sore, then your dermatologist may help you to recover quickly by prescribing appropriate medications and treatments.

Pustules, nodules, and papules can be very painful and uncomfortable. Your dermatologist can prescribe you topical or oral antibiotics as well as topical retinoids for complete recovery.

If you have ingrown hair which is untreatable with home remedies and treatments, then your dermatologist will first clean the affected area, take out the hair and get rid of the blemish.

The Last Word

To summarize, a blemish is a type of spot or mark on your skin. Most types of blemishes are benign and harmless which resolve on their own, but specific types of blemishes can be serious and threatening to your health, if left untreated. You must immediately consult a qualified dermatologist or Ayurvedic doctor if you develop any blemish which indicates the onset of skin cancer. Skin cancer is treatable provided one begins diagnosis and treatment in the early stages of the cancer.

By following a healthy diet plan, exercise routine, and skincare regimen, you can achieve a clear, radiant, and blemish-free skin. At Vedix, we carefully evaluate your Doshas and skin type, based on which we suggest you a customized skincare regimen exclusively for your skin's needs.

Know Your Dosha Now

how to get rid of blemishes

Source: https://vedix.com/blogs/articles/blemishes-on-face

Posted by: mcphersonpinge1991.blogspot.com

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