Conventional acne treatments like salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinol or azelaic acid are certainly very effective, but first, they can blow a hole in the budget, and second, they have side effects: redness, flaking and a feeling of tightness. This is what motivates us to look for alternative (read: homemade) ways to improve our skin.
The editorial staff warns readers against self-medication and does not recommend self-diagnosis, prescribing medications and procedures. If you have any signs of illness, consult your doctor.
Yes, home remedies have no scientific basis and further research on their effectiveness is necessary, but if you are looking for alternative treatments, you can try them after consulting your dermatologist.
What causes acne?
Acne begins when pores become clogged with sebum and dead epidermal cells. Each pore is associated with an oily gland that produces an oily substance called sebum. Excess sebum can clog pores, causing bacteria to grow, which leads to skin inflammation and acne.
Acne can also be influenced by:
- Genetics;
- nutrition;
- stress;
- hormonal changes;
- infections.
Home remedies that can cure acne
Apple cider vinegar.
Like other vinegars, it is known for its ability to fight many types of bacteria and fungi. Although some components of apple cider vinegar help with acne, there is currently no evidence to support its use for this purpose. Some dermatologists advise against using apple cider vinegar altogether, as it can cause skin irritation, so weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Instructions for use
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (more water for sensitive skin).
- After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to your skin with a cotton pad.
- Leave it on for a few seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
- Repeat 1–2 times a day as needed.
Zinc supplements
Zinc is an important component for healthy cell growth, hormone production, metabolism and immunity. Studies show that people with acne tend to have lower blood zinc levels than people with clear skin. Some tests have shown that taking zinc orally can help reduce acne. The key is to match the right dosage with your doctor.
Remember, taking too much zinc causes side effects, including stomach pain and intestinal irritation. It’s also important to note that applying zinc to the skin has not proven to be effective. This may be because it is not well absorbed through the skin.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a potent product, so dilute it before applying it to your skin.
Instructions for use
- Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 9 parts water.
- Soak a cotton pad in the mixture and apply to the affected areas.
- Apply moisturizing cream if desired.
- Repeat 1–2 times a day as needed.
Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, and drinking it can help improve health in general and skin health in particular. This is probably because the polyphenols in green tea help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, thereby eliminating the causes of acne.
Green tea can simply be drunk, you can take supplements based on this component, and you can also make lotions on the affected area. By the way, the latter option also regulates the production of sebum, thereby giving the skin a porcelain matte finish.
By the way, look out for tonics, serums and creams that contain green tea! It’s the easiest and most effective action.
Instructions for use
- Brew green tea in boiling water for 3–4 minutes.
- Allow the tea to cool.
- Use a cotton pad to apply the tea to your skin or pour it into a spray bottle to apply to your face.
- Let it dry, then rinse with water and blot the skin dry.
Hamamelis
Hamamelis is derived from the bark and leaves of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. It contains tannins with strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is why this plant is used to treat a wide range of skin conditions, including dandruff, eczema, burns, bruises, insect bites and even acne.
Studies also show that witch hazel can fight bacteria and reduce skin irritation and inflammation that contribute to acne.
Instructions for use
- Mix 1 tablespoon of witch hazel bark and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan.
- Soak the witch hazel for 30 minutes, then bring the mixture to a boil on the stove and simmer under a lid for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let stand for another 10 minutes.
- Strain and store the liquid in a closed container.
- Apply to clean skin with a cotton pad 1–2 times a day or as desired.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera leaves are used to extract a clear gel that is often added to lotions, creams, ointments and soaps. And for good reason! Aloe gel is commonly used to treat abrasions, rashes, burns and other skin conditions. When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel accelerates wound healing, treats burns and helps fight inflammation by normalizing local immunity.
Instructions for use
- With a spoon, scrape the gel from the aloe vera leaves.
- Apply the gel directly to clean skin instead of moisturizer.
- Repeat 1–2 times a day or as desired.
Fish oil supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids are fats that are incredibly beneficial to our bodies. Fish oil contains two main types of omega-3 fatty acids — eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
High levels of EPA and DHA are thought to reduce inflammatory factors, which may reduce the risk of acne. The dosage — you guessed it! — Should also be picked up with a specialist.
And you can also include salmon, sardines, anchovies, walnuts, chia seeds and ground flax seeds in your diet.
Do exfoliation
Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead epidermal cells. You can use chemicals or exfoliate your skin mechanically with a brush or scrub.
Exfoliating improves the condition of your acne skin. It also helps medicines and cosmetics to penetrate deeper and be even more effective.
Note that mechanical exfoliation, such as with harsh scrubs or brushes, can irritate and damage the skin. Dermatologists recommend that you consider gentle chemical exfoliation with salicylic or glycolic acid-based products.
How to make a scrub at home
- Mix equal parts sugar (or salt) and coconut oil.
- Gently wipe your skin with the mixture and rinse well.
- Repeat 1–2 times a week.
Low Glycemic Index Diet
The link between diet and acne has been discussed for years. Eating foods with a high glycemic index (GI) causes a spike in insulin, which probably increases sebum production. As a result, foods with high GI can directly affect the development and severity of acne.
Foods with a high glycemic index include processed foods:
- white bread;
- Sugary soft drinks;
- cakes;
- doughnuts;
- pastries;
- candy;
- Sweet breakfast cereals.
Foods with a low glycemic index include:
- fruits;
- vegetables;
- legumes;
- nuts;
- Whole or minimally processed grains.
Reduce your consumption of dairy products
The link between dairy products and acne is highly controversial. Milk and dairy products contain hormones (such as IGF-1) that are associated with the development of acne. However, not all studies support a direct link between the occurrence of inflammation in the skin and dairy products.
Reduce stress.
Funny, we get it. But still. The link between stress and acne is not fully understood. But there is some evidence that hormones released during times of stress can increase sebum production and inflammation, worsening acne. What’s more, stress can slow wound healing, which worsens the healing of acne.
Ways to reduce stress:
- Get more sleep;
- Pay attention to physical activity;
- doing yoga;
- meditate.
Exercise
There is little research on the effects of exercise on acne. Nevertheless, exercise improves the condition of the body as a whole.
And please don’t self-medicate! If you don’t have a sporadic rash, see a dermatologist as soon as possible to get to the bottom of it.
Budget Care Cosmetics for Problem Skin
Revamin Acne Cream is an advanced cream for imperfections. The cosmetic contains nourishing ingredients that prevent the appearance of rashes and prevent the appearance of new pustules. The cream formula penetrates deep into the skin, making it healthy, supple and smooth.
Revamin Acne Cream is a product designed for people with problematic skin. It works on any type of acne, regardless of the cause. Regular use of the cream reduces rashes and imperfections, limits the amount of sebum, and relieves redness and inflammatory conditions.
Revamin Acne Cream is popular with those who want to maintain healthy skin.
