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.

The various factors of adult acne are very different from juvenile acne. Adult acne affects normal, combination, or dry and sensitive skin, rather than just oily skin, the cause of juvenile acne. One of the recognized forms of acne is called acne vulgaris which involves black heads, pimples, and small sebaceous cysts and scars.

For adults, there are numerous factors that can contribute to having acne. The most well known cause is stress, causing production of Cortisol, a hormone that is known for promoting acne. Even coffee consumption promotes the creation of Cortisol. Smoking, poor diet, and low consumption of free fatty acids can all lead to an adult acne condition.

Millions are afflicted by acne the world over. Many of the products that you can get over-the-counter for treating acne include harsh chemicals, which may contribute to the deterioration of your skin, and only be a temporary remedy for your acne. 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.

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.

Green tea, chamomile and oatmeal are superb herbs for treating inflammation due to its anti inflammatory properties. When the affected part is washed with oatmeal, the itching sensation is greatly reduced. Ginger helps to reduce the redness and inflammation. Licorice increases mucous secretion, stimulating the adrenal gland function encouraging the natural defense system of the body into overdrive to remove bacteria and germs responsible for acne.