Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the pores of the skin get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, causing inflammation and breakouts. Acne can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin type, and can cause physical and emotional distress.
While there are many conventional treatments for acne, such as cleansers, creams, and medications, some people may prefer to try natural remedies that are gentler on the skin and the environment. Natural remedies may not work for everyone or for every type of acne, but they can offer some benefits, such as reducing oiliness, inflammation, and bacteria.
Here are 10 natural remedies for acne that you can try at home:
- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice and contains organic acids, such as citric acid and lactic acid, that can kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Apple cider vinegar can also balance the pH of the skin and improve the appearance of acne scars.
How to use it: Dilute one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water and apply it to the affected areas with a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a day.
- Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant. It has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can fight acne and reduce redness and swelling. Tea tree oil can also unclog pores and dry out pimples.
How to use it: Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with water or a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, and apply it to the affected areas with a cotton swab. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes and rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a day.
- Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. It can prevent bacterial growth and infection on the skin and speed up the healing process of acne lesions. Honey can also moisturize and soothe the skin.
How to use it: Apply raw honey directly to the affected areas or make a honey mask by mixing one tablespoon of honey with two tablespoons of oatmeal. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a week.
- Green tea
Green tea is a popular beverage that contains antioxidants, such as catechins, that can protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation. Green tea can also reduce sebum production and inhibit the growth of P. acnes bacteria on the skin.
How to use it: Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down. Soak a cotton ball in the tea and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a day.
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that produces a clear gel that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can reduce inflammation, redness, and pain associated with acne and promote wound healing. Aloe vera can also hydrate and nourish the skin.
How to use it: Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf or use a store-bought gel that is pure and organic. Apply it to the affected areas and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes or overnight. Rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a day.
- Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays an important role in immune function, wound healing, and inflammation regulation. Zinc deficiency has been linked to acne severity, as zinc can reduce inflammation, inhibit bacterial growth, and regulate hormone levels.
How to use it: Take zinc supplements orally or apply zinc-containing creams or lotions topically to the affected areas. The recommended daily intake of zinc for adults is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men.
- Witch hazel
Witch hazel is an extract from the bark and leaves of the Hamamelis virginiana plant. It has astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can tighten pores, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from damage. Witch hazel can also remove excess oil and dirt from the skin.
How to use it: Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel extract or toner and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes or until it dries. Rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a day.
- Fish oil
Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that can modulate inflammation and sebum production in the skin. Fish oil can also improve skin barrier function and hydration.
How to use it: Take fish oil supplements orally or apply fish oil capsules topically to the affected areas. The recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids for adults is 250 to 500 mg.
- Exfoliation
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin. It can unclog pores, prevent acne formation, and improve skin texture and appearance. Exfoliation can be done mechanically with a scrub or a brush, or chemically with acids or enzymes.
How to use it: Choose a gentle exfoliant that suits your skin type and sensitivity. Apply it to the affected areas and massage gently in circular motions. Rinse with water. Repeat once or twice a week.
- Diet
Diet can have an impact on acne development and severity, as certain foods can trigger or worsen inflammation, hormone imbalance, and oxidative stress in the body. Some foods that may contribute to acne include dairy products, refined carbohydrates, sugar, and processed foods.
How to use it: Follow a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid or limit foods that may aggravate acne, such as dairy, sweets, white bread, and fried foods. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins.
