14 Natural Remedies for Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis & Skin Disorders

14 Natural Remedies for Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis & Skin Disorders

Reviewed By: Dr. Imlikumba

B.A.M.S, M.D (Panchakarma), KRTC (Jamnagar)

Published: April 3 2024

Skin care is like dieting: You have to invest time and effort. There is no instant miracle cure. 

Skin is one of the most important presentable organs of the body and plays a significant role in one’s personality. Hence, skin diseases (twacha rogas) affect individuals not only on a somatic level but also on a psychological level. Skin is the mirror of inner health, reflecting everything that happens inside, including our emotions. Therefore, healthy skin is essential in the present-day scenario. Ayurveda emphasizes a proper, nutritious diet, peace of mind, and daily and seasonal regimens for maintaining health and healthy skin.

Ayurveda, the science of life, also deals with the concept of beauty. We are born with soft skin, but as we grow, it is exposed to the environment and seasonal changes. A little maintenance is required to keep our skin healthy. Ayurveda has a very different approach to skincare compared to modern medicine. Rather than using topical agents alone, like creams, lotions, and oils, Ayurveda treats and prevents the underlying skin problems at their roots.

What Causes Common Skin Disorders?

Skin health is influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. Common skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and excessive dryness often develop due to an imbalance in lifestyle, diet, environment, and overall health.

Poor dietary habits, excessive consumption of processed foods, dehydration, lack of sleep, and chronic stress can negatively affect skin health. Hormonal fluctuations may contribute to acne and other inflammatory skin conditions, while environmental factors such as pollution, sun exposure, and harsh skincare products can weaken the skin barrier.

Ayurveda considers skin problems a reflection of internal imbalance. Digestive health, proper nutrition, emotional well-being, and healthy daily routines are regarded as essential for maintaining clear and healthy skin.

Supporting the body through balanced nutrition, adequate hydration, stress management, and proper skincare practices may help reduce the risk of common skin disorders and promote overall skin wellness.

Common Skin Disorders and Their Symptoms

Lifestyle Is Part of the Remedy 

Diet:

A healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for skin health. In a survey of 1,206 psoriasis patients, 53.8% reported skin improvement after reducing alcohol consumption and 44.6% after adding omega-3-rich foods. 

• Nourishment: Eat plenty of sweet, juicy fruits and multiple grains (millet, barley, wheat) to provide a variety of minerals. Include a variety of cooked vegetables with spices in your daily diet. Vegetables like spinach, carrots, tomatoes, and cabbage provide essential minerals, vitamins, and proteins for your skin. Green leafy vegetables are rich in fibre and minerals like iron, which help nourish blood and skin tissues. Consume light, easily digestible proteins such as milk, paneer, cheese, and mung dal. Turmeric is highly beneficial for the skin as it is purifying and a potent antioxidant. Drinking cow’s milk daily with natural sweeteners like honey and avoiding sugar is good for skin health. Additionally, abstain from intoxicants like coffee, tea, and similar beverages.

• Rehydration: For maintaining the moisture and elasticity of the skin, internal rehydration is a must. Drink water, consume sweet, fresh fruit juices, and include high-quality fats such as ghee or olive oil in your diet. For external rehydration, daily massage with skin massage oil enhances absorption and increases glow and lustre.

Exercise:

Exercise increases blood flow to the skin and encourages the removal of toxins through sweat. Make daily exercise a part of your skin health program.

Stress Management:

Stress results in an inflammatory response in the body and adversely influences digestive and immune functions, leading to poor skin health. Stress is immediately reflected on the face. Stressed individuals often have trouble sleeping, and a lack of sleep causes additional stress. Therefore, it is important to address both factors simultaneously. Sleep well, do meditation, and practice easy breathing exercises.

Brush Skin:

Dry skin brushing before a morning shower is a simple technique to stimulate lymphatic circulation, helping the body clear the buildup of toxins that can aggravate skin conditions.

Use of pH-Controlled Soaps:  

Humans are covered in a diverse array of skin microbes, many of which promote skin health. Frequent washing or use of strong alkaline soaps can remove beneficial microbes from the skin's surface, leading to infection by pathogenic organisms.

Ayurvedic Herbs Traditionally Used for Skin Health

Triphala contains vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids and has demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies. 

• Turmeric

Turmeric has long been used in Ayurveda to support healthy skin and overall wellness.

• Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is commonly used for its cooling and moisturizing properties.

• Triphala Churna

Triphala is rich in antioxidants and is traditionally used to support digestion and overall well-being.

• Haridrakhanda Rasayana

Traditionally used in Ayurveda to support skin comfort and help manage itching associated with certain skin conditions.

Can Supplements Support Healthy Skin?

• Turmeric for Skin Wellness

Turmeric has been widely used in Ayurvedic traditions for centuries to support healthy skin. Its active compound, curcumin, is known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular dietary intake of turmeric, combined with a healthy lifestyle, may help support the body's natural defense against oxidative stress.

• Triphala for Internal Skin Support

Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation containing Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. Rich in antioxidants and naturally occurring vitamin C compounds, Triphala is often used to support digestion and detoxification, both of which are considered important for maintaining healthy-looking skin in Ayurveda.

• Aloe Vera for Skin Hydration

Aloe vera is valued for its soothing and moisturizing properties. It may help support skin hydration and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier when used appropriately.

Natural Remedies for Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns and may result from excess oil production, clogged pores, hormonal fluctuations, or bacterial growth. Several traditional remedies have been used to support clearer skin.

A systematic review analyzing 23 clinical trials found Aloe vera may support skin moisture, integrity, and wound healing when used alongside conventional treatments. 

• Aloe Vera and Turmeric

Blend 20 grams of fresh aloe vera pulp with half a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Warm gently for one minute and apply to the affected area. Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing with water.

A systematic review involving 371 patients reported that topical Aloe vera showed potential benefits in healing first- and second-degree burn wounds. 

• Nutmeg and Aloe Vera

Prepare a paste using nutmeg, Sariva root, and fresh aloe vera juice. Apply regularly to areas affected by blackheads and whiteheads.

• Honey for Skin Health

Honey is traditionally used for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It is often applied topically to support skin recovery and maintain skin hydration.

Natural Remedies for Eczema and Dry Skin

Eczema and dry skin can cause itching, discomfort, and irritation. Maintaining skin hydration is essential.

• Papaya and Oatmeal Face Pack

Combine ripe papaya, oatmeal powder, milk cream, and honey into a smooth paste. Apply to the face for 15 minutes before washing off.

• Buttermilk Application

Apply buttermilk to the skin and leave it on for approximately 10 minutes before rinsing. This traditional remedy is commonly used to support skin softness.

• Coconut Milk and Red Sandalwood

Mix red sandalwood powder with coconut milk to create a soothing face pack that may help nourish dry skin.

• Natural Remedies for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. While medical treatment is important, certain lifestyle and skincare practices may help support skin comfort.

• Moisturization

Keeping the skin hydrated can help reduce dryness and scaling associated with psoriasis.

• Stress Management

Meditation, breathing exercises, and adequate sleep may help support overall skin health, as stress can worsen inflammatory skin conditions.

• Turmeric

Turmeric is traditionally valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in Ayurvedic wellness practices.

Natural Remedies for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. While medical treatment is important, certain lifestyle and skincare practices may help support skin comfort.

• Moisturization

Keeping the skin hydrated can help reduce dryness and scaling associated with psoriasis.

• Stress Management

Meditation, breathing exercises, and adequate sleep may help support overall skin health, as stress can worsen inflammatory skin conditions.

• Turmeric

Turmeric is traditionally valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in Ayurvedic wellness practices.

Research suggests curcumin, turmeric’s active compound, may help reduce inflammatory pathways associated with psoriasis symptoms and skin irritation. 

Simple Home Remedies for Healthy Glowing Skin 

Avoid chemical treatments and fairness creams as they only provide a temporary effect and may damage your skin and cause early wrinkles.

1. Aloe Vera and Turmeric: Blend 20 grams of Aloe vera pulp with half a teaspoon (3 grams) of turmeric powder, heat for a minute, and apply externally. Leave for 20 minutes, then wash off with water.

2. Nutmeg and Aloe Vera: Apply a paste made by rubbing nutmeg and the root of Sariva with fresh Aloe vera juice to the face daily to treat blackheads and whiteheads.

3. Almonds and Gram Flour: Soak almonds in water overnight, grind them after removing their skin, and mix with one teaspoon of gram flour, one teaspoon of milk, and four drops of lime juice. Apply to the face and gently massage for clear and fair skin.

4. Milk Powder and Honey: Mix one tablespoon of milk powder with one tablespoon of honey, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and half a tablespoon of almond oil. Apply to the face and neck daily, and wash off after an hour.

5. Turmeric and Milk: Make a face pack with a mixture of turmeric and milk. Apply and wash off after an hour with cold water for glowing skin.

6. Lemon Juice and Glycerin: Use for dry skin, while fuller’s earth and turmeric are used for oily skin.

7. Tomato and Lime Juice: Grate one tomato, mix with 3-4 drops of lime juice, apply to the face, wait for 15 minutes, and then rinse off.

8. Egg White and Milk Cream: A mixture of egg white, milk cream, and honey works excellently against skin tanning.

9. Tomato Juice and Honey: Mix tomato juice with honey or yogurt and apply daily to remove tanning.

10. Papaya and Oatmeal: Prepare a fine paste of ripe papaya, oatmeal powder, milk cream, and honey. Cover your face with this paste for 15 minutes, then wash off with water.

11. Buttermilk: Apply to the skin, leave for 10 minutes, and then wash off thoroughly for a softening, cleansing, and radiating effect.

12. Sandalwood Paste: Acts as a sunscreen and protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Enhances fairness and is considered an anti-aging ingredient.

13. Carrot and Pineapple Juice: Apply a mixture of carrot juice and pineapple juice to the skin twice a week to remove skin marks and enhance glow.

14. Red Sandalwood and Coconut Milk: Make a face pack with red sandalwood powder and coconut milk for glowing skin.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Natural remedies may support healthy skin, but professional medical advice is important if you experience:

• Severe or persistent itching

• Bleeding or painful skin lesions

• Signs of infection

• Rapidly worsening skin conditions

• Skin symptoms lasting longer than two weeks

• Sudden or unexplained skin changes

Consult a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Healthy skin not only enhances beauty but also serves as an external indicator of an individual’s internal physical and emotional health. Skin problems like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rash, itchiness, extreme dryness, or dullness indicate an imbalance in diet and/or lifestyle. Skin is the largest organ of the body; hence, skin diseases affect both the somatic and psychological levels of an individual. To properly understand skin diseases, one must know the normal echotexture of the skin.

Ayurvedic herbs and herbal drugs play a key role in curing various skin ailments. Many herbs are components of cosmetic products. Pure natural products without synthetic chemicals, used in the form of face packs, are highly beneficial. They are devoid of side effects and equally effective compared to chemical formulations. The use of bioactive ingredients in cosmetics influences the biological functions of the skin and provides nutrients necessary for healthy skin.

FAQs

1. What is the best natural remedy for skin disorders?

There is no single remedy that works for everyone. Aloe vera, turmeric, honey, and proper hydration are commonly used to support healthy skin.

2. Can Ayurveda help improve skin health naturally?

Ayurveda focuses on diet, lifestyle, stress management, and traditional herbs that may help support healthy skin and overall wellness.

3. Is turmeric good for skin health?

Turmeric contains naturally occurring compounds with antioxidant properties and has been traditionally used in skincare practices.

4. How long do natural remedies take to show results?

Results vary depending on the individual, the skin condition, and the consistency of use. Improvements may take several weeks.

5. What foods support healthy skin?

Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and adequate water intake are commonly recommended to support skin health.