The benefits of herbal acne remedies versus the chemical-based or synthetic treatments are numerous. Mostly, it has to do with the side effects of the prescription and over-the-counter products designed to treat the condition. Here is a look at some of the chemical treatments and their side effects, as well as the herbal options.

Topical Antibacterials or Antibiotics

Benzoyl peroxide and triclosan are the two most common antibacterials found in over the counter ointments and cleansers. The concentration of these chemical compounds varies; the milder the concentration, the fewer the side effects.

The compounds work by killing the P. acne bacteria, which is the cause of infections in pimples and cysts. The side effects include redness, peeling, itching and irritation.

Topical antibiotics are prescribed by a doctor. There are fewer side effects for the topical antibiotics than there are for the oral ones, but there is still the risk that the bacteria will become resistant to the treatment over time.

Many herbs and botanicals have natural antibacterial activity, but without the side effects or the risks of creating more resistant bacteria. Some of the most effective natural remedies include tea tree oil, active manuka honey and turmeric.

Hormonal Treatments

Hormonal treatments are dangerous, because they are synthetic forms of the naturally occurring hormones. Even birth control pills are accompanied by risks ranging from high blood pressure to stroke.

There are herbs that help to balance hormonal production. It is best to contact an herbalist, a naturopathic doctor or a reliable manufacturer to determine which herbs are best for your sex and your condition.

Although sex hormones are often blamed for acne, because it typically appears during puberty, it may be related to other hormones, such as insulin and insulin-like growth factor. Diets high in milk and dairy products can cause increased production of those hormones, as can diets high in simple carbohydrates.

Retinoids

Retinoids are actually a synthetic form of vitamin A. Low levels of vitamin A have been associated with acne for many years. But, instead of suggesting natural vitamin A or beta-carotene, which the body converts to it and is even safer, doctors often prescribe the prescription drugs that containing the synthetic form. To many of us, it just does not make sense.

Retinoids, when taken orally, cause birth defects. They damage the liver and they cause depression. Nose bleeds and dry skin are the “milder” side effects. When applied topically, they cause excessive dryness, itching and irritation.

Natural plant extracts have the same antioxidant activity, but do not cause the side effects. Taking a good natural multivitamin or eating your vegetables is really all that is necessary to ensure adequate intake of vitamin A.

Sulfur is a good option for topical application, because it helps to balance the skin’s pH level. It has been used for thousands of years by societies from around the world for the treatment of acne. It works and it is safe.

There are many other safe and natural alternatives. There is simply no reason to resort to the chemicals or the synthetics. You have better options with natural remedies for acne that will not cause any harmful side effects.