Acne is not just a skin ailment but also a systemic problem and appears for a variety of reasons. The end-result is an abundance of androgen and too much sebum. Some situations require a doctor's consultation. Women that develop facial hair and cease menstruation or someone with acne accompanied by a fever may have other problems that cause the acne.

Stress encourages the production of sebum, the sebum gathers at the base of the hair follicle and along with flakes of skin forms a whitehead or blackhead and feeds bacteria as it builds. Attempt to keep your stress at a minimum and practice quiet meditation, exercise to burn stress or relaxation techniques. Many studies indicate that change in diet affects acne the frequency and severity of breakouts. Balanced meals, high in fruit and vegetables and low in sugar and plenty of water build the immune system and encourage rapid healing.

One of the worst things you can do when you suddenly have a breakout is to overscrub the area - this will irritate your skin, which will encourage more acne to form! Rather than do this, gently wash your face with warm water and rinse with cold water twice a day - remember to pat, not rub your face dry.

After you wash your face, try a fresh astringent from the refrigerator. Lemons contain Alpha-Hydroxy acid. The Alpha-Hydroxy acid is an exfoliating agent. It helps the skin to slough off dead cells to prevent-build up that leads to pimples. Lemon juice also acts as an antiseptic to aid in the prevention of infection. Infection makes the annoying little whiteheads turn angry and red. Squeeze half a lemon into a dish for this alternative acne cure and dip a clean cotton ball. Blot your face with the lemon juice and allow it to dry. If you have sensitive skin, you may need to dilute the juice with distilled water. Once the juice dries, rinse your face again with cool water.

Another of the alternative cures for acne which is often overlooked is the old mosquito bit standby, calamine lotion. Calamine lotion is an astringent and drying agent (thank to the zinc oxide it contains) and also soothes irritated skin to reduce swelling and redness. You can put calamine lotion on before bed (don't forget to wash it off in the morning!). You can also use caladryl with calamine lotion. This is less effective than just using calamine lotion, but won't have you walking around pink-faced all day and as such is suitable for daytime use.

The last of the natural ways to cure acne is with Tea Tree oil. This oil irritates the skin when applied full strength, so if your skin is sensitive, dilute it with Aloe Vera, water or mild astringent. It is antibacterial and doesn't really cure the acne but reduces the symptoms. To be safe, start with a solution of diluted tea tree oil. Use one part for every 19 parts of water, astringent or Aloe. You can increase the amount until you find the correct strength for your skin.