There are now probably a hundred and one acne remedies out there on the market today. They come in various forms, from creams, ointments, facial washes, soap bars and even invasive medical procedures.
But what many people fail to consider is that this kind of skin problem can also be treated using ingredients and remedies that can be found at home. So let’s keep it natural and simple, here are some of the most common and time-tested acne home remedies that you can easily whip up without the price tag and nasty side-effects.
The Honey and Cinnamon Mask
Honey has been used as an Ayrvedic medicine for many centuries. Raw honey is known to have anti-bacterial properties that can help kill pimple-causing bacteria on your skin – ever notice how honey never goes bad? Mix honey and cinnamon to create a paste. Apply on to the skin like a facial mask before going to sleep and leave on the face overnight. In the morning, you can wash off the facial mask with gentle soap and water.
This facial mask treatment can get quite messy so I recommend that you lay a clean towel over your pillow to avoid the paste going all over it during your sleep.
The Toothpaste Pimple Remedy
Toothpaste is one of the most commonly known acne home remedies. Toothpaste has certain chemical components that can dry out acne and promote faster healing. Application is very simple, too. All you need to do is wash your face and dab on a small amount of toothpaste onto the affected area, just enough to cover that zit. Expect a tingling sensation, which should be normal. Leave it on for 5 minutes and rinse with water. This remedy is only effective as a spot treatment though, and will probably not do so well under other circumstances such as severe acne.
Raw papaya juice
Papaya juice contains essential acids that help prevent the production of excess oil on your face. Oil can be one of the main triggers of acne attacks since it can trap dirt in your pores and provide an environment suitable for bacterial growth. The papaya can also reduce swelling of the acne affected area. All you need to do is leave on the raw papaya juice and rinse off after 3-5 minutes.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the plant, Melaleuca alternifolia. It is more popularly used in the household as a natural insecticide.
But aside from that, the oil also contains antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties that can help fight pimple-causing bacteria as well. Application is done by rubbing the oil directly into the affected area for a few minutes before washing off with a mild soap and water.
Mint
Mint contains menthol, which is considered to be a natural anesthetic and also has anti-bacterial properties which makes it one of the best acne remedies.
Application is done by crushing the mint leaves thoroughly using a mortar and pestle to release the menthol and rubbing it into the skin for 5 minutes (your skin might tingle and sting a bit). Then rinse off the juice and the debris with soap and lukewarm water. This acne treatment will help cool your skin and reduce inflammation too.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is an extremely popular remedy for scars and burns these days and can also be an effective remedy for acne as well. It has natural healing properties that can do wonders for skin damage caused by pimples.
Aside from that, it also fights bacteria to stop existing acne in its tracks and prevent further pimple break outs. Remember, aloe vera is at its best when they are used raw and fresh so find a fresh leaf and use this to rub on to the skin. Leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing off with soap and lukewarm water. If you can’t get hold of the raw plant, the next best thing would be 100% pure aloe vera gel extract, available in most cosmetics sections of departmental stores.
Yogurt
Although yogurt is more popular as a healthy food product to promote good digestion and a healthy body, it also has other benefits such as preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin. Aside from that, it is also very effective home remedy for acne. Apply the cream on to your face like a facial mask, leave on for a few minutes and rinse off with mild soap and water. Yogurt is one of the safest home remedies you can try, so experiment with it, and apply as often as necessary to blemish affected areas.
Garlic For Pimples
Garlic is another well-known miracle fruit. Aside from it being good for the heart, garlic is a powerful natural remedy with anti-bacterial properties that can help you prevent acne. Crush a garlic glove and squeeze the juices out, and follow up by rubbing it onto the acne affected skin, leave for 3-5 minutes and rinse off with soap and water.
Be warned though, although it is totally safe for your skin, it will sting like crazy! If you’re uncomfortable with this sensation because you have sensitive skin, there are garlic tablets that you can take as a multivitamin or supplement – although it might not be quite as effective as the topical remedy.
On a final note, remember to never touch your face with dirty fingers. Always keep your fingers clean and avoid picking pimples and touching as that will only promote further bacteria growth, making your acne even worse.
You can always do away with those expensive acne treatments that may not be that effective at all. These acne home remedies are natural, safe and cheap alternatives for you to solve this common skin problem.
Related posts:
Another effective acne home remedy is to use apple cider vinegar as a toner. Apple cider vinegar helps to kill bacteria, to remove excess oil and to normalize the skin pH.