Submit your skincare questions to Dr. Agnes, CEO of Herborium and natural medicine expert
A popular way of thinking when you have acne is to scrub your skin as much as possible with products that "sting" in order to get rid of acne -Unfortunately, this is not the case. That "stinging" feeling doesn't mean that you're doing something good for your skin. Practices like this actually do more harm than good. The more chemicals, and product, that you put on your skin, the more your skin is striped of its natural oils, and goes into protection mode and actually produces more oils, which can make your acne worse and chronic!
We do know that by implementing the proper washing and moisturizing techniques, your chances to get clear skin increases two-fold. And don't forget - you have to treat your skin with an acne treatment when you have acne - it will not go away simply by washing or doing DIY treatments.
After you've cleaned your skin, and before you moisturize, applying a non-harsh yet effective astringent cleans, tones and firms the skin and also constricts the pores. Most astringents dry out the skin, which again, will make your acne worse.
And men, a natural astringent can be a very powerful tool in your arsenal to fight aftershave bumps and pimples, irritation and acne.
If you aspire for a healthy and clear complexion, use a powerful natural astringent like Chamomile that can control bacteria, help to prevent razor bumps and even speed up the healing of pimples.
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacteria properties. When applied topically, chamomile can help reduce inflammation associated with acne, razor bumps or irritation.
How to use: You can make your own chamomile astringent by taking 3-4 chamomile tea bags (or 2 handfuls of the dry plant) and brewing it into a very strong tea. When cooled, splash or use on a cotton pad all over your face twice a day. Keep the leftovers in the refrigerator, but use or discard in two days.
Azulene
This chamomile derivative with anti-inflammatory properties has a long respected history, dating back to the 15th century, and is used to repair and soothe problem skin. You can find after-shave lotions or oil with Azulene (choose the highest content). For the body, use Azulene essential oil which can be found in your local natural food store.
How to Use: Add this essential oil to a bath (10 -15 drops). No need to mix any other essential oil with it. Use warm water and soak for up to 30 minutes.