Every year acne affects millions of people worldwide, with up to 85% of teenagers and young adults developing the condition.
There are many excellent commercial products to treat acne, but did you know there are treatments you can try at home? Check out the popular home remedies for acne outlined here.
Grapes
Grapes are not only delicious and healthy but can also be effective for acne. An article in Advances in Dermatology and Allergology found that resveratrol in the skin of red grapes may fight bacteria responsible for some acne conditions.
Thus, in addition to your favorite acne treatment, grab a handful of grapes, and you’ll have a natural way to clean your face. Slice a few grapes in half and rub them on your neck and face; then rinse off with cold water.
Tea Tree Oil
This soothing fluid eliminates bacteria and reduces inflammation. In other words, it may kill certain bacterias that cause pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil can also reduce redness and swelling from breakouts. A 2015 clinical study reviewed current evidence on how tea tree oil treats acne.
Scientists found that products made from the oil may reduce the number of pimples for people who have mild or moderate symptoms. Also, the study determined that tea tree oil could be as effective as some benzoyl peroxide products.
Benzoyl peroxide is a popular and effective over-the-counter treatment for acne. But many acne creams and gels contain tea tree oil. Just check the labels of the products you’re considering.
Echinacea
This herb is used in many cultures to hasten the healing of wounds. Some believe it also can prevent colds and flu.
Several clinical studies have suggested that echinacea has anti-inflammatory properties to help acne and eczema. Try echinacea tea every day for a face wash.
First, soak a washcloth in it and apply that to your face for three minutes. Then wash with cold water.
Cucumber
If you go to spas, you may have tried putting slices of cucumber on your eyes to make them less puffy. So what’s that about?
Evidence suggests that cucumber slices can soothe the skin by reducing irritation, pain, and swelling. This means cukes could also alleviate skin inflammation associated with acne.
Cucumbers may work by soothing the skin and hydrating it. They won’t help directly with pimples, though, so you must rely on other treatments for zits.
One way to use cucumbers for the face is to mash one and remove as much of the water as you can. Next, add a touch of sugar and mix it in.
Then apply that to your face for 10 minutes, followed by a cold water wash. Also, remember to slice up those cucumbers and apply them to your eyes for 15 minutes when you lie down. They really can help to reduce puffiness.
Honey
Honey can be effective for treating skin conditions, including acne. This is because it contains healthy antioxidants that will eliminate bacteria from clogged pores.
Modern doctors also use honey to dress certain wounds because of its antibacterial properties. All you need to do is rub a bit of honey onto those pesky pimples, or add it to your daily face mask.
Home treatments for acne can improve the skin and reduce acne to a degree. Try a few of the options above to treat your pimples. Then see how your skin looks after a week or two.
If these home cures don’t help, consult a dermatologist. He or she can usually prescribe something that will address the problem.
It’s essential to get treatment if you have serious acne; if it goes on for too long, it can lead to scarring.