Youth Incorporated Magazine

We are all born with good skin. As we grow older, the skin is influenced by many factors, like diets, habits and lifestyle. The body also goes through many changes during the various phases of growth, development and maturity. Hormonal changes and imbalances during these times also influence the skin and hair.

Hormonal activity affects the glands. The oil glands are also stimulated, leading to increased secretion of oil. That is why during adolescence, youth are confronted with an oily skin and conditions associated with it. An oily skin is prone to blackheads, spots, pimples and acne. In fact, acne is the most common skin problem amongst teenagers and the youth.

The problem with acne is that even if it disappears with time, it leaves scars. So, it is imperative that the condition is checked from spreading.

“Cleansing” is the keyword for an oily skin. Daily cleansing and skin care, with appropriate products, is the only way of preventing acne and other oily-skin conditions. Oily skins tend to attract more dirt. The pores must be kept free of hardened oil and the oiliness of the skin surface must also be reduced. Cleanse with a face wash or medicated cleanser. Use plenty of water to wash off all traces of the cleanser. In order to deep cleanse the skin, a scrub or cleansing grains should be rubbed gently on the skin. This helps to keeps the pores free of oil. Blackheads are also dislodged and discouraged from forming. However, scrubs should not be applied on pimples, acne or rash.

Frequent washing with soap and water is not advocated.  Do not wash your face with soap more than two or three times a day. Too much soap and water washing disrupts the acid-alkaline balance of the skin, leaving it predisposed to bacterial attack. After cleansing, wipe the face with an astringent- toner, using cotton wool. A rose-based skin tonic would help.

Avoid the use of oily moisturisers and nourishing creams. If the outer layer feels taut, as in winter, use a light liquid moisturizer. If pimples and acne make an appearance, never hesitate to seek professional help. For such problems, medicated lotions, ointments and face packs are available and can be added to the daily skin care routine.  Make sure that your hair and scalp are kept scrupulously clean. Dandruff and other conditions can lead to pimples and acne.

Indeed, hormonal activity affects the scalp as much as the skin. The scalp is rich in oil-producing glands. The hair becomes greasy and limp. This is due to the excess oil coating the hair shaft. While this natural oil is important for the hair, excess oil, or sebum as it is called, can cause scalp problems. In fact, it can lead to Dandruff. When the pores of the scalp are clogged with oil, the distribution of natural oil along the hair is disturbed. This causes dry hair, while the scalp is oily. Make sure that your hair and scalp are kept scrupulously clean. Dandruff can lead to acne eruptions on the face, back and upper arms.

The hair should be washed at least three times a week, using a mild herbal shampoo. A henna-based shampoo is good for dandruff. Very little shampoo should be used. Dilute it with a little water and then apply. Rinse the hair well with water, in order to get rid of all soapy and oily residues.  In fact, the hair can even be washed daily. It is not daily washing which harms the hair, but rather the product that is used and improper rinsing of the hair with water. In cases of severe dandruff, combs, brushes, pillow covers and towels should be washed daily, in hot water, adding a few drops of an antiseptic solution.

A home treatment for common dandruff is the hot oil therapy. Heat pure olive oil or til oil, and apply on the scalp with cotton wool. Rub the scalp gently to loosen the flakes. Leave the oil on overnight. The next morning, apply the juice of a lemon on the scalp and wash the hair after half an hour. This can be done once or twice a week. I also recommend the application of her herbal hair tonic daily.

Diet plays an important role. Include fruits, raw salads and sprouts in your daily diet. Drink plenty of water and take fresh fruit juices. Add the juice of a lemon to a glass of warm water and have it first thing in the morning.