Did you know acne affects about 80% of people in the 11-30 age group? However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. In fact acne affects people of every, gender, and race.

A number of factors can cause acne including contact with or ingestion of oily substances, use of different types of medication, steroids, or the secretion of certain hormones. There are many causes but an important point to remember is to avoid oily and chemically ridden cosmetics or any facial products that contain antimicrobial agents such as socetyl stearate, isopropyl isostearate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl myristate, and sodium chloride, as these ingredients can cause acne.

Because acne is usually present in very visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back it can lead to considerable emotional distress and low self esteem. Fortunately there are a number of treatment options to help resolve the problem. With some exceptions most acne treatments will not completely 'cure' acne. What they offer is a means to prevent new spots forming, to remove those already present, and to help prevent scarring. The acne treatment options range from natural remedies through to medical treatment.

Apart from over the counter medical treatments there are many natural remedies including non-oily face washes containing Echinacea or tea tree oil designed to help reduce the incidence of acne. Echinacea along with poke root have been shown to have very effective anti-inflammatory properties Natural astringent cleansers are also available, these help to remove the oil buildup that block the skin's glands, thus helping to prevent acne. Herbal remedies containing herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, and burdock root can be used to help relieve acne by reducing toxicity and improving the general condition of the skin. The estrogenic action of red clover may also be effective. The exceptional astringent properties of witch hazel can also be a very effective acne remedy.

Here are some home acne treatments you can try: