PARIS, Sept 4 — Acne outbreaks are common after the summer and are often attributed to the stress of returning to work or school, even if they are more often linked to UV exposure. Whatever the reason, these sudden breakouts can be a drain on confidence at this key time of year. Fortunately, there are natural, inexpensive solutions to help get rid of blackheads, pimples and excess sebum, which affect far more people than you might think.

Exposure to the sun, and more specifically to ultraviolet rays, tends to dry out the skin and make it thicker, resulting in a clear, radiant complexion. In appearance, at least. But it also leads to clogged pores and a build-up of sebum, which runs off as the sun’s effects start to wane. This is when acne flare-ups occur, often accompanied by blackheads and excess sebum — not a pretty sight when you’re about to head back to school or the office, even if the phenomenon affects millions of people. Thankfully, certain natural ingredients can help combat this mild form of acne. However, if it persists or worsens, you should seek the advice of a health professional.

Tea to help reduce sebum secretion

You only have to visit the cosmetics aisle to see just how many green tea-based anti-acne products are out there. And that’s no coincidence. White tea, and especially green tea, are both natural solutions for people who are prone to acne, thanks to their astringent properties. Their main asset is reducing the secretion of sebum, which, in excess, is precisely one of the causes of acne. In the form of an oil, mask, cream or serum, green tea can be one of the allies of problem skin. Note that it should not be confused with tea tree oil, which, incidentally, dries up acne spots and blemishes.

Apple cider vinegar to fight blackheads

Vinegar can be used to get rid of the blackheads that plague the lives of the young and the not so young! Rich in nutrients, organic acids and mineral salts, apple cider vinegar is a powerful antibacterial agent that cleanses the skin thoroughly and removes pollution and other impurities that build up throughout the day. Even better, this wonder product helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and get rid of blackheads. Plus, it’s a natural remedy that’s within everyone’s reach since it’s cheap to buy.

Sweat can be an unexpected ally

We do everything to avoid it, in winter as in summer, with products like deodorant and talcum powder. However, perspiration is not all bad. On the contrary, it can be useful in getting rid of impurities, pimples and blackheads, as long as you don’t sweat too much and don’t let it fester. Sweating is a natural process that results in the evaporation of sweat through the pores of the skin, ridding it of sebum and impurities at the same time. Moreover, sweat contains an antimicrobial peptide that naturally protects the skin from acne-causing agents. Anyone for a quick gym session? — ETX Studio