Sunday Edition

For smooth, supple skin this summer

Pankaj Aggarwal

DR PANKAJ AGGARWAl suggests some natural ways to eliminate acne, and for keeping your skin soft and glowing

Summer brings along with it warm weather, beautiful sky and the feel of the sun on your face. But with warmer weather also come the rather unpleasant side effects —  increased acne on your face and body. There can be many reasons that can cause acne. One of them is hereditary problems. Sometimes, bacteria can also cause acne by ‘overeating’ the dirt and oil from your skin.

People with oily skin or those who work out must take care of their skin this season as the heat and humidity can intensify oil production, and thus, more chances of acne and rashes. But if your acne are inflammatory, then the heat can actually help in improving the situation. As they say, prevention is better than cure, if you have a history of acne, then you should follow these tips and learn about some natural ways to eliminate acne.

Watch your diet

One should avoid high glycemic food such as doughnuts, wheat bread, soda and baked potatoes. Removing sugary and starchy products from your diet will help control acne and will keep you healthy in the long run.

eliminate Stress

Physical as well as emotional stress has been proven to trigger off acne breakouts in some people. Try and reduce stress whether related to your workplace or personal life.

avoid Wrong cosmetics

Another common factor responsible for causing acne is the use of certain kinds of cosmetics and cleansing products. Avoid using greasy or harsh products or those whose ingredients you are allergic to. These products tend to clog your skin pores and irritate your skin, resulting in frequent acne breakouts.

Wipe your sweat

When you are out in the sun, you tend to perspire a lot. Your perspiration contains toxins and impurities, so make sure you have a towel handy to wipe off the greasy sweat. Sweating keeps your skin cleansed naturally, but needs to be wiped off at regular intervals in order to prevent acne breakouts.

maintain Facial hygiene

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser at regular intervals. Splashing fresh water on your face rejuvenates it and the hydration prevents pimples.

eat Fruits and vegetables

Eat lots of green vegetables and fresh fruits. These foods not only work wonders for your overall health, they are also vital sources of antioxidants, vitamins and other essential nutrients that erase the signs of acne and heal acne-ridden skin.

Not just water but lots of it

Make sure you drink lots of water throughout the day. Water flushes toxins and other impurities from your system and keeps your skin cleansed and hydrated.

Avoid a sedentary lifestyle

Try and remain physically active. Yoga and exercises improve your skin tone and boost metabolism.

wear comfortable clothes

Wear loose clothing that does not irritate your skin. Prevent acne breakouts by avoiding the heat, friction and constant pressure caused by restrictive headgear or other forms of athletic gear. Switch to cotton clothing instead.

The writer is a Delhi-based homeopathic physician