It can sometimes get emotionally draining to nurse a painful red breakout or two, what is called cystic acne, on an otherwise smooth glowing skin. Cystic acne is more common among young adults, though it can occur among adults too. It is caused when the pores of the skin get blocked by accumulated oils and extraneous matter. An Ayurvedic understanding of why cystic acne occurs might help you mitigate it better, without possible scarring of the skin.

Before we get to the remedies, it is important to understand what is a Dosha in the science of Ayurveda. Vata (air or space), Pitta (heat or fire) and Kapha (earth and water) are the three bio-elements in the body, made up of the five great elements in nature. Each individual has a particular constitution and a balance of these three in the body. According to Ayurveda, any imbalance in them over a prolonged period of time can lead to uneasiness, weaknesses or disease.

Ayurveda and Cystic Acne

Seasoned Ayurveda experts believe cystic acne can manifest due to imbalances in any or all three doshas.

Indicators Of Dosha Imbalances in Cystic Acne

 If the breakouts are red in color, then it is likely to due to a vitiated Vata Dosha.

If they carry puss inside them, then it could be due to heat in the body or Pitta imbalance. During the summer, the incidences of cystic acne occurring due to Pitta imbalance are higher.

If you notice swelling, discoloration or whiteness in the skin around the acne, it is caused by an imbalance of Kapha Dosha.

Here are some very easy home remedies for you to heal the breakouts and prevent your skin from scarring.

1. Sesame oil and Turmeric
   

   Close up turmeric powder

According to Charaka, a proponent and an authority on the 5000 year old healing system of Ayurveda, sesame oil is one of the most valuable among all the oils with its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties.   It is also rich in linoleic, or omega-6 fatty acid, needed for good bodily development. Sesame oil is specifically helpful in managing Vata imbalances.

Turmeric on the other hand is a wonder herb touted for its umpteen benefits in Ayurveda.  The benefits of turmeric have been widely documented as: antibacterial, rejuvenating agent, blood purifier, skin repair, rich in antioxidants, tone lightening. It adds a glow to your skin and should be an inseparable part of your beauty regimen.

To heal cystic acne, add a little water or unrefined sesame oil to 1 to 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder to make a paste. Put this paste on the affected area and leave it on for about an hour. Wash your face and dab it softly. You can apply a gentle moisturizer to preserve the suppleness of the skin after the wash.

2. Wash your face

Experts recommend frequent face washing with lukewarm water when you have cystic breakouts.

3. Steam

You can steam your face twice daily to open up and clear the pore blockages that cause acne.

4. Aloevera with red sandalwood

Nothing comes close to the power of Aloe Vera in treating acne and severe dryness rapidly and effectively without leaving scars. Aloe Vera is an effective moisturizer because of its unctuous properties.  It is also widely known for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. You can use also use purely herbal skin moisturizers and lotions rich in Aloe Vera. Aloevera pulp when combined with red sandalwood, makes for a great detoxifying combination for your skin.

Not just for external applications, but consuming a teaspoon of aloe can also increase the vitality of your skin and it also improves the skin tone. Aloe also balances Vata dosha.

5. Facepacks or Lepa

After the steam, you can apply Ayurvedic face packs, called Lepas in Sanskrit made from select ingredients that work on your skin pigmentation.

You can use ingredients that go well with your Dosha constitution. For example,

-For those with Vata Dosha, can add milk in their Lepas,

–Pitta Dosha people can apply pastes made with the base of rose water or milk.

-For Kapha, honey is a good ingredient.

IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS-Ayurvedic lepa or formulations for facial packs can include some of these herbs that reduce acne, pigmentation and discoloration-wild turmeric, aloe vera, lemon juice, common madder (Manjishtha in Sanskrit), chick pea flour, curd, and red sandalwood.

6. Deep pore cleansing mask 

You can simply apply Shankara’s natural and soothing Deep pore Cleansing Mask that draws out impurities and absorbs excess oil with this purifying clay mask. Grapefruit seed extract and white clay help reduce the shine for skin that is clear, healthy, and fresh.

• A purifying clay mask that draws out impurities, and absorb excess oil for a clearer and less oily complexion
• Stimulates circulation and oxygenates
• Helps keep the skin clean
• Also for acneic skin

Disclaimer: The conditions and illnesses could also be due to a mix of Dosha imbalances. Please do not try to self-diagnose. This article is purely for informational purpose. We strongly recommend you consult a Sri Sri Ayurveda physician for a thorough examination of your constitution and its balances/imbalances.