Acne

• Acne is a clogging of the pores on the face, neck, back, and chest. It begins with an enlarged hair follicle that is clogged with oil and bacteria called the "comedo," which forms beneath the skin. As your skin creates more oils, bacteria thrives in the swollen follicle. The skin becomes inflamed as white blood cells fight against the bacteria.
  
  Acne is not curable but is treatable. There is no one cause of acne, including your diet. It is caused by the change in regularity of shedding skin, the rate of sebum production --- the oil produced by your skin to keep it moist --- and genetics all play a part in the cause of acne.
  
  

Witch Hazel

• Witch hazel is a shrub. Its bark and leaves have been used in folk remedies for centuries; Native Americans were known to use it to treat painful swellings and tumors. Its bark is generally used dried, while its leaves can be used either fresh or dried. It is a natural anti-inflammatory and is used to make teas, lotions, powders, and creams.
  
  The shrub is highly astringent, meaning that its properties causes a contraction of tissue, much how an astringent wine causes your cheeks to pucker. This property helps treat acne.
  
  

Affect on Acne

• While it is not a miracle cure, witch hazel can be used as part of your acne treatment. Its astringent properties tighten and dry the skin, reducing the size of your pores. It will also remove excess oils from the skin. This is a preventative measure, since reducing the pores and removing oils means less clogging.
  
  In terms of treating an outbreak of acne, witch hazel's anti-inflammatory properties will help reduce swelling and redness.
  
  Witch hazel can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as face wash and clarifying pads. Consult a dermatologist for a recommended cleaning regimen.
  
  

Finding Witch Hazel

• Witch hazel can be found at many stores, including your local drugstores and chains such as Target and Rite Aid. You will find products containing witch hazel, as well as liquid witch hazel astringent that you can apply to the affected areas with cotton balls.