Acne is one of the most embarrassing skin problems most people face. And in an effort to treat this problem and prevent future outbreaks, many people seek out medications and other products to help combat the problem. However, some medications can have unwanted side effects or can simply be too strong for some people, given the powerful chemicals present in some acne remedies. Therefore, many people also look for natural acne remedies in addition to (or as a replacement for) traditional acne medications.

Acne is something that most people face, either as infants, teens or adults. Even though it is most common on the face, it can also show up on the back, the neck, the chest or anywhere else on the body. Luckily there are several natural acne remedies available for today's health-conscious consumer, including several skin cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide as a primary ingredient.

Nutritional Supplements

There are nutritional supplements that also might help in defeating acne. For instance, vitamin A is thought to help decrease the level of production of sebum, which makes it an excellent nutritional supplement for acne sufferers as well. In fact, there are gels and creams that are made with modified forms of vitamin A. However, as always, you can have too much of a good thing and too much vitamin A can cause decreased bone density among other side effects so be sure to only take the recommended daily amount.

Zinc is also thought to have some powerful acne-fighting effects. Zinc has been shown to help heal blotches and decrease inflammation caused by acne. In addition, it may also help in lowering hormone levels affecting the skin, one of the primary causes of acne.

Healthy Eating

Eating right can help reduce your acne as well, at least according to some research. Some information suggests that focusing your diet on whole foods rather than processed foods can help curb acne development, not to mention that it's probably better for you all around. The typical advice you probably got in health class applies for healthy eating to prevent acne as well. This includes taking in at least 5 servings of vegetables and one serving of fruit everyday. Foods rich in omega 3 oils are also a good bet. And of course, lots of water but that goes without saying.

Herbal Remedies

Finally, there are a number of herbal remedies that can be used as part of your acne-fighting regimen. Most notable is the combination of extracts of sarsaparilla, cleavers, burdock and yellow dock which has other helpful properties for the body in addition to helping fight acne.