How to Treat Skin Problems in Teens Naturally

Apply tea tree oil to pimples and small blemishes.

Acne is a common skin issue for teenagers, as their changing hormones can lead to skin problems. Acne presents in a few ways, whether it be a couple of pimples on the face or all over the face or even the back. Whatever way it rears its less-than-friendly head, acne is embarrassing for a teenager to have to deal with. Yet, treating acne with harsh chemicals can cause more damage to skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Natural alternatives offer a gentler, effective way to treat and prevent acne.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial soap or hand gel
• 2 ripe strawberries
• 1 cup of plain organic yogurt
• Tea tree oil
• Cotton balls
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Cut out or lower the amount of high fat foods you consume. Fast foods, processed foods, and dairy products that contain a lot of fat should be eliminated to fight acne. At minimum, limit eating these products to no more than three times a week and stick with low fat dairy.

2. Keep your hands clean and do not touch your face. You can easily transfer acne-causing bacteria with your hands, so try to keep from touching your face. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap or use sanitizing hand gel.

3. Drink at least eight cups of water every day. If you are active and sweat a lot, increase your water intake to at least 10 glasses. Water will help keep skin healthy and hydrated, which is important, as dry skin can breed acne.

4. Slice and mash up two ripened strawberries and mix them in with a cup of plain yogurt to get a creamy paste. Store in the refrigerator and use as a natural facial cleanser in the morning and at night, or whenever skin gets sweaty such as after playing sports. Make a new batch of mixture every three to four days as needed.

5. Apply tea tree oil to pimples as soon as you notice them forming. Do this twice a day after washing your face until the pimple goes away. Apply only a small amount, dabbing a cotton ball in oil and lightly dabbing the pimple three times to avoid over-drying the area with oil.

6. Make a creamy paste out of cool water and baking soda. Apply to your face after cleansing once a week at night and rinse after two minutes. This will help fight acne and lessen redness on the face associated with acne.

Tips & Warnings

• For back acne dilute ½ cup tea tree oil with ½ cup water and mix in a spray bottle. Spritz your back after showering and let the solution dry. Wash and spritz your back daily, then switch to every couple of days when back acne clears up.

References

• Acne Myths, Etc.: Tea Tree Oil: Acne's Worst Nightmare
• Homemade Beauty Recipes: Natural Facial Cleanser Recipes