When oil and dead skin cells build up in your pores or bacteria infect them, you may develop acne. Up to 85% of Americans aged 12–24 suffer from Home Remedies
Acne can be treated with prescription creams or medications, but if you prefer a more natural approach, here are 11 home cures to try instead.
First, use tea tree oil as a spot therapy.
The skin benefits of tea tree oil, an essential oil, are well-known.
According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital, “tea tree oil has antimicrobial characteristics, decreasing levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin,” suggesting its potential efficacy for treating acne. Tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory and acne-fighting properties are due to its ability to eliminate the germs that cause acne.
People with mild to moderate acne can reduce their scarring by using a gel containing 5% tea tree oil extract, according to a review of 7 research published in 2015. Studies have consistently found that applying tea tree gel to the face twice daily for 4-8 weeks significantly reduces facial acne.
Tea tree oil was equally effective as other common over-the-counter acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide (5% solution) and erythromycin (2% gel).
Tea tree oil may reduce acne. However, it might irritate the skin if not used properly. Zeichner advises caution in its use and suggests that it not be used in its purest form. Instead, you should apply diluted tea tree oil to the zit.
Jojoba oil, for example, is a natural oil that can be used as a carrier oil and is effective at reducing inflammation-related symptoms like swelling and discomfort. Put jojoba oil on your face, and then add three or four drops of tea tree oil.
Break out some aspirin and take a few
Crushing aspirin into a paste and applying it to acne is a common home remedy. Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is chemically related to salicylic acid, a traditional therapy for acne.
Aspirin, derived from the same salicylic acid, has potent anti-inflammatory qualities that help alleviate the associated pain, heat, and redness. In contrast to salicylic acid, “aspirin does not have the same oil removal and exfoliating actions as salicylic acid,” Zeichner explains.
Although salicylic acid is preferred, aspirin can aid in a pinch, according to specialists.
Aspirin can be used to treat acne by making a paste out of the powder from two or three crushed pills and some water. This paste can be applied to imperfections, left on for 10–15 minutes, and then washed off.
Supplement with zinc
Acne treatment may be aided by zinc supplementation. Zinc’s anti-inflammatory qualities are responsible for its ability to lessen skin redness in this way. People who have oily skin may benefit from taking zinc because it can reduce oil production.
The anti-inflammatory and calming effects of zinc on the skin are well-documented. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, Zeichner states that it has anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin.
The mineral zinc is crucial to maintaining a healthy brain and immune system.
Zinc supplements are widely available without a prescription; just remember to stay within the recommended dosage! Zinc intake between 8 and 11 mg per day is recommended by the NIH, with a daily maximum of 40 mg.
Apply Manuka honey to acne scars.
Honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics have made it a traditional treatment for a variety of skin problems. However, not all honey has the same medicinal properties.
Manuka honey, a variety of honey collected from New Zealand and Australia, is prized for its curative properties. Experts say that further research is needed, but they believe that Manuka honey can help clear up acne.
Because of its potent antibacterial characteristics, Manuka honey may be useful. While it’s true that all honey has antibacterial properties, some varieties, like Manuka, are up to a hundred times more efficient than others at destroying bacteria.
It has been established that the anti-inflammatory properties of manuka honey aid in wound healing. Also, it has the potential to alleviate pain, which is very welcome when dealing with unseen skin imperfections.
Use a small amount of Manuka honey to dab on spots or dilute it with water to apply topically. Be aware, though, that Manuka honey isn’t always the most cost-effective choice.
Create a toner with green tea
Green tea has several health benefits when consumed, but new evidence suggests that applying it topically may have similar effects. The polyphenols found in green tea are responsible for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
A 2017 review indicated that using a lotion containing between 2 and 5% green tea extract decreased oil production and improved the appearance of acne scars.
Use either store-bought skin care products containing green tea extract or, in a pinch, just plain old green tea on your skin. A pot of green tea, applied to acne with a cotton swab or cloth after it has cooled, is one method for doing this.
