Acne affects people of all ages. Due to the increased hormone levels in the body, teenagers are the ones who usually suffer from it. Aside from this, other factors causing acne include unhealthy eating habits, hectic lifestyle, too much stress and sleep deprivation. It commonly appears on the chest, back, scalp and face.
Instead of using expensive acne treatment, try these simple and easy natural cures that will give you a clear and smooth skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar
As it contains lactic and malic acids, apple cider vinegar can exfoliate, reduce red marks and treat acne. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. Apply it on the skin using a cotton ball. Be sure to shake the mixture well before using.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural inflammation-fighting properties. A five percent solution of this is just as effective as five percent benzoyl peroxide solution. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with between 20 and 40 drops of witch hazel. Use a cotton swab to apply the mixture. Try this remedy twice a day.
Green Tea
Its antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds help fight acne. Use a cooled cup of green tea as a face wash or you may opt to just lay the bag over the affected area.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera can fight infection, promote healing and reduce scarring. Using a spoon, scrape the gel from an aloe plant and apply to acne.
Honey
Honey has antimicrobial properties that help in improving the acne. Apply directly a teaspoon of honey or you may opt to make a mask by mixing ½ cup of honey and 1 cup of plain oatmeal and then, leave it on the affected area for 30 minutes
Echinacea
Usually, Echinacea is used is preventing colds and flu and speeding-up wound healing. But aside from these, its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties also works wonder on acne. You may soak a cloth in Echinacea tea or put a few drops of tincture on a cotton ball and then dab it on blemishes.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel can be used as an astringent. It naturally dries and shrinks blemishes. Pour witch hazel onto a cotton ball and wipe on your face twice daily.
Chamomile
Inflammation caused by acne can be reduced by Chamomile. Using a coffee grinder or a blender, combine the contents of a chamomile tea bag with adequate water to form a paste and then, apply it to the acne. You may also steep two chamomile tea bags with 1 cup boiled water for 15 minutes. Let it cool. After cleansing, use a cotton ball to dab the tea on your face.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Its anti-inflammatory properties can remove acne. Maximize its benefits by adding more albacore tuna, salmon, walnuts and flaxseeds to your diet.
Lemons
Lemons act as exfoliant, disinfectant and skin lightener which reduces the appearance of scars as well as prevent new pimples from forming. After cleaning your face, soak a cotton ball in lemon juice and dab it on the acne. Rinse your face with cool water.
Acidic Foods
Citrus fruit juices, as well as vinegar, can flush pores. To help battle acne, soak a cotton ball on it and gently swipe it on the affected areas.
Mint
Mint can remove pore-clogging oil from the face. Before acne begins, mix 2 tablespoons of finely chopped mint, 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt and 2 tablespoons of ground oatmeal (grind the oatmeal using a blender) until you make a paste. Leave the mixture on your face for 10 minutes. Rinse off with water.