One of the most prevalent skin disorders in the world, acne is thought to impact 85% of young adults.
The most effective acne treatments currently available, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, can be pricey and have unfavorable side effects like dryness, redness, and irritation.
This has led a lot of people to explore home remedies for acne. In fact, a study indicated that 77% of acne sufferers have used non-prescription acne medications.
There has to be more research on the efficacy of many home remedies because they are not supported by science. However, if you’re looking for alternative therapies, your options remain.
In this article, we will take a lake a look at home remedies to get rid of acne. Let’s get started.
Major Cause of Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. There are several factors that contribute to the development of acne. Here are some of the major causes:
- Excess oil production: The sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. During puberty, hormonal changes can cause these glands to produce more sebum than necessary, leading to clogged pores and acne.
- Clogged hair follicles: Dead skin cells and excess sebum can accumulate in the hair follicles, blocking the opening and resulting in the formation of comedones, commonly known as blackheads or whiteheads.
- Bacteria: The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes, which is naturally present on the skin, can multiply in the clogged hair follicles and produce inflammation, leading to red, swollen pimples.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or hormonal disorders can trigger acne. Androgens, a type of hormone, stimulate the sebaceous glands and contribute to acne development.
- Inflammation: Inflammation plays a significant role in the formation of acne lesions. When the hair follicles become clogged and bacteria multiply, the body’s immune response causes redness, swelling, and pus formation.
- Genetic factors: Acne can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition. If your parents or siblings had acne, you may be more prone to developing it as well.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, androgens, or lithium, can contribute to acne development by affecting hormone levels or increasing oil production.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as pollutants, high humidity, and heavy sweating, can aggravate acne by increasing the likelihood of pore clogging.
Top 10 Home Remedies To Get Rid of Acne
Yogurt
Lactic acid, a component of yogurt, helps to exfoliate dead skin cells. The live cultures in it have anti-bacterial characteristics, which help to produce clear skin. Apply 1/4 cup of organic, plain yogurt on your face with a tiny brush. Wash off after drying for 10 minutes or until completely dry. A bonus tip: Yogurt consumption is a great approach to supporting healthy skin from the inside out since it can help treat acne.
Turmeric and Honey Mixture
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric will help reduce the size of the zit. Additionally, it aids in removing too much skin oil. Honey contains anti-microbial qualities and aids in preventing bacterial growth in a pimple. Mix thoroughly 1 tablespoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Apply and leave on for five minutes on wet skin. Use water to wash off.
Chickpea Pest
For those with oily skin, especially those who have acne, chickpea flour or gram flour is a great home cure since it absorbs excess sebum production. Apply for ten minutes after mixing 1 tablespoon with water and cleansing the skin. Wash off.
Cucumber Mask
Cucumbers contain moisturizing and soothing properties for the skin, thus they could provide a little amount of relief for acne-related skin inflammation. Try making a cucumber mask at home to get rid of acne. Your skin, which could feel rough from acne, will feel smoother after using this cooling, soothing mask. “Mash a whole cucumber, strain the liquid, then stir in a tablespoon of sugar.” After applying it to your face, wait 10 minutes before washing it off with cold water.
Fuller’s Earth (Multani mitti)
Magnesium chloride, which helps treat acne and prevent outbreaks, is abundant in Multani mitti. It is well known for thoroughly cleansing the skin and for eliminating dirt and pollutants that might clog our skin pores. Mix one and a half tablespoons of multani mitti with water or rose water, then apply to your face. Wash off.
Tea Tree Oil
Whiteheads, blackheads, or cystic acne can all be treated at home with this wonder oil. In the morning and at night, dab some oil onto the zit to remove it. To get rid of pimples, tea tree oil must be both anti-bacterial and anti-microbial. Additionally, it has calming qualities that might lessen the discomfort associated with deeper pimples. Apply the oil to the skin after diluting it with a carrier oil that soothes the skin, such as coconut oil, if you have sensitive skin.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a fantastic remedy for pimples that have flared up and are now uncomfortable and inflamed. For best results, use aloe vera taken fresh from the plant. Redness can be treated and reduced with aloe vera’s anti-bacterial qualities. It also hastens a pimple’s healing process. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it will successfully treat boils or cysts if you have them. Aloe vera is an astringent that aids in getting rid of extra oil from a zit. If applied consistently, it can also help lighten acne scars.
Papaya
Since papaya is a common fruit in many of our homes, using it as an acne-curing component is simple. Numerous nutrients in papaya can both prevent and treat acne. Vitamins A and C, which are antioxidants, speed up cell turnover and reduce the likelihood of acne by containing them. It works well as a gentle exfoliant when used topically, unlike many other products. Papaya can be blended or mashed, then applied to the skin. After 10 minutes, wash it off.
Oatmeal
According to research published in January 2015 in the Journal of Drugs and Dermatology, oatmeal’s anti-inflammatory characteristics are naturally calming and may ease irritation caused by dermatological problems such as rashes, erythema, burns, itch, and eczema. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and skin-protective properties. Although it isn’t particularly effective in treating acne, it can help calm dry, inflamed skin.
2 teaspoons of oats, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and enough water to make a paste should be combined. Apply the paste evenly on your face and gently massage it in. After that, thoroughly rinse.
Jojoba Oil
A natural, waxy material called jojoba oil is made from the seeds of the jojoba shrub. Jojoba oil has waxy components that may help mend damaged skin and hasten the healing of wounds, including acne lesions. Some of the ingredients in jojoba oil may be able to lessen the swelling and redness of whiteheads, pimples, and other irritated lesions.
Apply jojoba essential oil on acne by combining it with a gel, cream, or clay face mask. If not, dab a cotton pad with a few drops of jojoba oil and gently massage the area where the acne is present.
What Life Style Changes You Need to Get Rid of Acne Condition?
Making certain lifestyle changes can be beneficial in managing acne. While these changes may not completely eliminate acne, they can help reduce its severity and frequency. Here are some lifestyle modifications that may help:
- Proper skincare routine: Cleanse your face twice a day using a gentle cleanser suitable for acne-prone skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin and worsen acne. Use oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and sunscreen.
- Avoid excessive face touching: Touching your face frequently can transfer dirt, bacteria, and oils from your hands to your face, potentially worsening acne. Try to keep your hands away from your face as much as possible.
- Don’t squeeze or pick at acne lesions: Popping pimples or picking at acne lesions can lead to further inflammation, scarring, and potential infection. It’s best to resist the urge and let the acne heal naturally or seek professional treatment.
- Maintain a balanced diet: While there is limited scientific evidence linking diet directly to acne, some studies suggest that certain foods may exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals. Consider reducing your intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and high-glycemic-index foods. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep your skin hydrated and may assist in flushing out toxins from your body.
- Manage stress: Stress can contribute to hormonal imbalances and exacerbate acne. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in activities you enjoy.
- Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and promote overall well-being. However, it’s important to shower and cleanse your skin afterward to remove sweat and oil buildup.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure: While sunlight can temporarily improve acne symptoms, prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage and potentially worsen acne in the long run. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
- Be cautious with cosmetics: Choose non-comedogenic, oil-free, and water-based cosmetics and skincare products. Avoid heavy makeup or products that can clog your pores. Remove makeup thoroughly before going to bed.
- Quit smoking: Smoking has been associated with more severe acne and delayed wound healing. Quitting smoking not only benefits your overall health but can also improve your skin.
Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to find what works best for you. If you’re struggling with acne, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
Conclusion
All of these ideas for homemade face masks use basic materials that you can find in your refrigerator and pantry. They can refresh your skin and help clear acne. To treat acne-prone skin, try one or more of these treatments and observe how your skin reacts.
Contact a dermatologist for assistance if at-home remedies are ineffective after two to four weeks. Unfortunately, waiting longer to get treatment increases the chance of getting skin discoloration or, in some circumstances, permanent scarring. So, keep an eye out for your gorgeous skin, exercise prudence, and stay refreshed.
