6 All-Natural Household Items That’ll Help Get Rid of Your Acne
Has your mom ever told you to "put some toothpaste" on a pimple?
Sadly, that's one at-home remedy that you should definitely avoid, but that doesn't mean there aren't great natural alternatives to help heal pimples at home. If you're looking for more natural remedies for acne, we have a few tried and true ingredients that will help keep those pimples at bay, the natural way.
Keep reading to find out what they are.
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Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is great for so many different skin conditions because of its ability to fight many different bacterias and viruses. Apple cider vinegar, also commonly called ACV, contains organic acids that have been shown to kill acne-causing bacteria. It also has succinic acid to suppress skin inflammation, and lactic acid to smooth texture and fade acne scars. Dab ACV on a cotton pad and apply to clean skin, like you would a toner.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient that's important for cell growth, hormone production, metabolism and immune function—it's also one of the most celebrated natural remedies for acne. Research has shown that people with acne have less zinc in their blood, so taking a zinc supplement is a great start (of course, consult your parents and doctor first).
Honey + Cinnamon Mask
Both honey and cinnamon are wonderful antioxidants, and antioxidants have been shown to reduce acne better than acne-fighting ingredient benzoyl peroxide. Honey and cinnamon mixed together in a mask flood the skin with antioxidants while also drawing in moisture, which hydrates the skin.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is touted for its ability to fight bacteria and reduce skin inflammation, which is why it makes such a great pimple-fighter. It's also less harsh than benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, so it's a really great option for sensitive skin types who get dryness or irritation from more traditional acne topicals.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is basically heaven-sent—there's really nothing it can't do! Between adding to your baked goods, using it in toothpaste or popping it on a pimple, baking soda is basically a cure-all. Baking soda helps soften blackheads and any clogged pores in the skin, which makes it ideal for congested skin types. The best way to use this is with a DIY baking soda mask with two parts baking soda, one part water.
Sea Salt
Sea salt cleanses the skin really deeply, removing dead skin cells, balancing moisture, and pulling toxins from pores, which makes it a good at-home fix for acne. The simplest way to use sea salt is by wetting your face, putting some salt on your wet hand so it sticks, then patting it gently onto your skin. You can leave it for a few minutes or rinse immediately.
Is your acne a bigger issue? HERE's how to get rid of cystic acne, according to a top dermatologist.