What is a pimple/acne?
A pimpe or acne is a small swelling on the skin containing pus, usually on the face and neck. It usually occurs around puberty.

Causes for the formation of pimple/acne
• Acne can be a result of hormonal changes during adolescence, skin allergies or even constipation.
• Faulty selection of foods like excessive consumption of starch, sugar or fat in the diet, irregular eating habits.
• Deficiency of vitamin A and zinc are also one of the most prevalent causes of acne/ pimples
• An oily complexion and pollution can worsen the problem.

Remedies:
Black raisins: A sherbet made with black raisins, sugar and fennel seeds(saunf) helps to bring quick results as it clean the digestive tract and chases body heat away. See the recipe down.

Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables like cucumber, oranges, watermelon, papaya, chickoo, mint, spinach etc are rich in fibre and nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E which help to have a glowing skin.

Multani mitti (fuller’s Earth), rose water and sandalwood paste: A paste made with equal proportions of these three ingredients when applied on the face for 15 ti 20 minutes wil rejuvenate acne prone oily skin.

Tomato: Rub a slice of a ripe tomato over the skin. Dry it for ½ hour and wash off with lukewarm water.

Tulsi (Indian basil): Applying a mixture of juice of tulsi with lemon or ginger (adrak) will also help to cure pimples with scars.

Foods to be avoided• Tea and coffee
• Spicy and oily foods
• Confectionery and mithai
• Full fat dairy products
• Pickles, canned and preserved foods
• Refined foods like maida, sugar, pasta and polished rice
• Creamy salad dressings.


Suggestions for a Glowing Complexion

1. Wash your skin gently twice daily with an antibacterial soap (not regular soap) as it is alkaline and will retard bacterial growth. washing will keep the pores oopen and your skin free of bacteria. However, don’t scrub too hard, as this will irritate your skin further.
2. Keep your hands away from your face or other affected areas. They ay contain oils and bacteria that could promote acne. Wash your hands frequently.
3. Avoid greasy creams and cosmetics, especially ones that contain oils and dyes.
4. Reduce the consumption of junk foods, sugar not more than 4 teaspoons per day
5. Drink plenty of water.

Fruits Healer
This sweet preparation gives a pimple free smooth skin. Consuming this drink regularly even after the pimples disappear, will help you to gain a glowing complexion

Preparation time: 10 minutes. No cooking
Makes 1 cup.

1teablespoon black raisins (kismis)
1 tablespoon fennel seeds (saunf)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup water

Method:
1. Combine all the ingredients and soak for at least 4 to 6 hours
2. Liquidise in a blander and drink immediately.