Acne can just raise its ugly head whenever it wants to. But many a time, it pops up when you indulge in some triggers, such as oily and fat laden foods. Excessive use of chemicals on the skin, improper skin cleansing schedule, excessive sebum secretion, hormonal changes, and an unhealthy lifestyle routine are some of the prominent causes of acne. There are numerous natural ways to tackle acne. And, pomegranates have been hailed as one of the most effective one.
The ruby red fruit and its juice has been a favorite anti-acne solution for countless people across the globe since time unknown. The rich presence of antioxidants in this fruit render it the acne fighting potential. Read on to know more about how pomegranates help in treating acne.
[ Read: How Yoga Helps To Cure Acne ]
The Antioxidants in Pomegranate
Pomegranate is the treasure trove of several antioxidants, including polyphenols and vitamins C, E, and A. It contains various power anti-inflammatory substances that are well known for their acne-combating potential. One whole pomegranate contains about 28.8 mg vitamin C, one of the most effective radical scavenging antioxidant.
Studies suggest that a cup of pomegranate seeds contains five times the antioxidants such as flavanols and phenols as an apple. It is also a rich source of acne-specific antioxidants, anthocyanins, the flavonoid that give the fruit its specific red hue. The anti-inflammatory nature of these anthocyanins is known to be powerful enough to combat acne and prevent various cancers.
These fruits also contain punicalagin. This bio available antioxidant whose only source of pomegranate is known to have a positive impact on the blood pressure levels in humans. It also helps in adjusting the cortisol and insulin levels, thereby reducing the acne outbreaks.
So, how exactly does pomegranate help in combating acne?
The antioxidants in this fruit possess the potential to neutralize free radicals. These unstable molecules of oxygen, if left unhandled, damage the tissues and cells, triggering unpleasant inflammatory conditions. Antioxidants, according to various studies, help in reducing the acne by lowering these inflammations. When applied topically, it also helps in improving the circulation to the affected area and eases the blemishes and scars.
[ Read: How To Use Avocado Oil For Acne Treatment ]
How To Use Pomegranate To Cure Acne?
There are various simple ways you can use pomegranate to ward off acne.
- Consume Pomegranates
Daily intake of these fruits in the form of the seeds or as freshly extracted juice [without adding sugar] could help in improving the levels of antioxidants in your body. The presence of antioxidants in adequate amounts help in combating the free radicals in a better way, thereby easing and preventing recurring breakouts of acne.
- Pomegranate Juice For Cleansing
Juice extracted from the seeds of pomegranate could help in cleansing the skin. A natural astringent and toning agent, the juice cleanses the skin and cleans the clogged pores. It also helps in clearing the scars. Dip a clean cotton in the juice and apply on the rinsed skin.
- Pomegranate Seeds Scrub
Exfoliating the skin regularly is essential to ease and prevent acne. Roughly pounded dried pomegranate seeds mixed with yogurt makes an excellent scrub. Apply on cleansed face and massage clockwise and anti-clockwise for 2 minutes each. Wash off with lukewarm water and dab dry to reveal an oil-free face.
- Pomegranate Honey Pack
Both the ingredients are blessing for those who have acne. Ground half a cup of pomegranate seeds into a thick paste. Mix 2 tbsp honey and 6 drops of tea tree oil to the mixture. Apply on cleansed face and leave on for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water for a fresher, firmer skin.
Have you used pomegranate to treat acne? Share your experiences with us in the comments or on the Howtogetrid Facebook Page !