Acne is a common but chronic condition that can effect adults between the ages of twenty-one and forty and sometimes beyond. Acne commonly presents as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and as simply as congested pores. These blemishes appear where oil glands exist in great numbers i.e. the face, chest and back. Women represent the largest population suffering from acne.

Factors that encourage adult acne are very different from those involved with juvenile acne. Adult acne usually involves normal or combination skin or even dry and sensitive skin, rather than oily skin which is the typical cause of juvenile acne. One form of acne called acne vulgaris is characterized by the presence of black heads, pimples, small superficial sebaceous cysts and scars.

In grownups, there are various causes of acne eruptions. Tension is one of them, since it induces the secretion of cortisol, a steroidal hormone which encourages acne. Drinking coffee is another cortisol promoting activity. Cigarette smoking, insufficient levels of free fatty acids, and an inferior dietary regimen can also be responsible for adult acne.

Worldwide, millions of people are affected by acne. Over-the-counter products can help treat acne, but they contain chemicals that may deteriorate the skin and may only work for a limited amount of time. Natural and herbal remedies are being looked at now in the wake of hazards of chemicals used in over-the-counter products. Herbal remedies aren't as harsh and contain no chemicals - they are compounded mixtures of readily available plants and herbs.

Adult acne can be treated in a variety of ways, including the use of lotions, creams, homemade remedies, or even herbs. Some herbal acne treatments make use of the properties of Echinacea and tea tree oil, and they can easily be purchased anywhere natural remedies and whole foods are found. Echinacea and Oregon grape play a major role in boosting the body's immune system. Tea tree oil contains terpenoids, known for their antifungal and antiseptic properties.

To remove acne scars, try almond oil. Apricot and citrus juices also help, by reducing the presence of cysts. They also act as natural exfoliates, thereby removing dead skin cells and consequently unclogging pores. Distilled white vinegar can be dabbed onto to the skin in acne-affected areas, in order to cleanse the pores. Finally, due to its anti-bacterial properties, a layer of honey may be applied to the skin, as a mask, to help with healing of acne-affected areas.

Herbs such as green tea, chamomile, and even oatmeal are great remedies for treating inflammation since they have anti-inflammatory characteristics. Any itching sensations are reduced by washing with oatmeal. Ginger also reduces redness and inflammation. Licorice surprisingly increases mucous which stimulates the adrenal gland and increases natural defense systems in the body. This removes any bacteria and germs that may be the cause of acne.

Adult acne affects people from ages twenty-one through forty and up. Acne can come up as any of the following: congested pores, whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Women suffer from acne more than anyone else. One form of acne is characterized by the presence of black heads, pimples, small superficial sebaceous cysts and scars. As people become more aware of the dangers of these treatments, they are turning more and more to natural and herbal acne treatments. Herbal treatments are softer on the skin, and don't contain any of those dangerous chemicals, being a mixture of natural plants and herbs.