Stubborn acne has usually been thought of as a skin disorder mostly affecting teenagers, caused by the upsurge of hormones during puberty.

While many believe it is just a phase, acne can still persist through early adulthood and much later on in life.

Pimples originate from an overproduction of sebum (oil) produced in the sebaceous glands, which are located in the skin.

Sebum’s purpose is to keep the skin lubricated, but in excess it can clog the glands of the face, shoulders, chest and back.

The oil-rich environment provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to occupy these glands.

As the body’s immune system tries to combat the bacterial invasion, immune cells are targeted to these areas and initiate inflammation, resulting in a cyst or pustule.

Touching or popping pimples will only make matters worse.  Further irritation of the skin will cause greater swelling and redness.

Skincare products specialized to treat acne utilize a variety of strategies to decrease inflammation or to prevent the replication of bacteria.

Products containing astringents, glycolic acids, benzoyl peroxides, salicylic acid and retinoic acids will unclog your pores, preventing bacteria from inhabiting them and can be purchased over the counter.

If these first lines of defense prove ineffective – after at least six to eight weeks of use – a dermatologist can prescribe mild antibiotics to treat the acne.

If you are hesitant to pop pills, there is also a wide range of natural remedies that can be effective in treating acne.

Honey has antibacterial properties, so it can disinfect the skin and heal minor blemishes when used as a mask once or twice a week. It’s a cheap and tasty option, as long as you stay away from hungry bears.

Diet is another important component that can prevent or agitate acne. 

Processed sugars, foods high in carbohydrates and dairy items have been postulated as foods responsible for acne flare-ups.

On the other hand, there is some evidence that beta-carotene (vitamin A), found in spinach and carrots, protects the skin and prevents acne.

Zinc is also an antibacterial agent and beneficial for oil-producing glands in the skin. 

Zinc deficiencies are responsible for some cases of acne. Peanuts and roasted pumpkin seeds have sufficient amounts of zinc to provide an antibacterial boost.

When you are washing up after munching your carrots and pumpkin seeds, save some extra toothpaste. 

Oddly enough, some theorize that toothpaste can be the perfect remedy to absorb the oils in pimples, reducing their size.

Give these natural, original and slightly surprising remedies a try, beat back acne, and shrink your pimples.