Acne is a stubborn creature for people of any skin type. On some days, it’s more noticeable than others, and if you’re lucky, it might eventually disappear altogether.
There are plenty of conventional treatments for acne that you can easily find at a pharmacy, but they’re not always easy on your wallet or your skin. If you’re tired of forking out cash to buy a cream that dries out and irritates your face, try these home remedies for acne instead.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its ability to counter inflammation and fight infections, so it’s no wonder that researchers have found that 5% tea tree oil is an effective treatment for mild acne. This soothing oil comes from a tree native to Australia.
Although there are a ton of tea tree oil-infused products, it’s most effective when you use the real thing. Tea tree oil is highly concentrated, so you’ll want to dilute it with water, or another oil before dabbing it onto your blemishes.
2. Witch Hazel
You’ve probably seen many witch hazel products on the shelf at the beauty store, and for a good reason. Witch hazel contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help prevent acne.
Before you grab the first bottle of witch hazel you see, make sure it contains no zero alcohol. Apply witch hazel after cleansing your face; you should see improvement over time.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
If you have some apple cider vinegar hidden somewhere in your kitchen cupboards, it’s time to find it. Apple cider vinegar is the product of fermented apple cider, containing acids that kill acne-causing bacteria. Better yet, apple cider vinegar is even shown to help improve the look of acne scars!
Mix a 1:3 ratio of apple cider vinegar and water, and apply the solution to your face. Please don’t skip this dilution step, as rubbing straight apple cider vinegar on your skin can irritate it.
4. Green Tea
Green tea isn’t just a tasty start to your morning, it may also be a solution to persistent acne. The polyphenols in green tea can stop the production of excess sebum and soothe the skin.
The easiest way to apply green tea to your face is by creating your own mask. Grab a green tea bag, and pour its contents into a bowl. Add in 1/2 tablespoon of honey, and mix it all together. You can then apply the mask to your face, wait 20 minutes, and then wash it off.
5. Aloe Vera
You might already use aloe vera for sunburns, but did you know it’s also a great remedy for acne? Aloe vera has healing properties that can soothe skin all over your body, including your face. A 2014 research study shows that aloe vera can enhance conventional acne treatments.
After cleansing your face, apply a thin layer of aloe vera on your skin. Just ensure that the aloe vera you choose is fragrance-free and 100% pure.
6. Garlic
Garlic is an immune-boosting, bacteria-fighting ingredient that promotes your skin’s and entire body’s health. Its organosulfur compounds help eliminate inflammation and prevent infections.
Incorporating garlic into meals can help improve your skin, but you can put it on your face if you’re not a fan of eating the herb. Mince up a clove of garlic, and place it on the area of your face affected by acne. Don’t keep the garlic on your face too long, as garlic can make your skin burn.
7. Honey
Believe it or not, honey has been a homeopathic staple for acne care for decades. Honey blocks the growth of propionibacterium acne and even kills it off completely. You can easily apply honey directly to your skin or mix together 2 parts honey to one part cinnamon to make a facial paste.
8. Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids help with a variety of inflammatory issues, including acne. Although you can increase your omega-3 fatty acid intake by eating foods like salmon or walnuts, you can also take a daily fish oil supplement as well. It goes great with other daily vitamins or medications without requiring a lot of work.
9. Reduce Stress Levels
When we feel stressed, we reach for coping skills like skin picking or rubbing our face to help. Unfortunately, these things only increase acne. Instead, people can look for ways to lower their stress levels to cut down on acne spreading.
More Home Remedies for Self Care
If you’re tight on cash, or find that OTC acne creams just aren’t working for you, it doesn’t hurt to try some old-fashioned home remedies. You might find a way to curb those persistent breakouts!
Looking for more clever ways to use the ingredients lying around your house? Try using these everyday household items in your beauty routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will dietary changes help prevent acne?
Cutting out certain foods like sugar and greasy can help prevent acne. Similarly, adding particular food to your diet can also help prevent it.
How fast do these home remedies for acne work?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology effective acne treatments show noticeable signs of improvement within 4 to 6 weeks. With that being said, not all home remedies work for all people, so you may have to try a few first.
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