Four Natural Remedies for Acne

If you suffer from acne it is easy to convince yourself that there is a "miracle cure" that you can purchase at the pharmacy. There are plenty of over the counter creams, gels, washes and kits that claim they can clear up your acne. Home acne remedies are another effective, and often less expensive option to consider. Most of which can be found in your kitchen!

Remedies from the Kitchen

A fantastic home remedy for acne is one that has been used for centuries is aloe vera. Aloe gel is an astringent with antibacterial properties. It can be used to treat acne, and condition and cleanse your skin. To use aloe gel begin by washing your face thoroughly with warm water - warm water will help to open the pores so you will gain maximum benefit. Massage aloe gel into your skin until it is fully absorbed. Not only will this help to clear up your acne, aloe is also soothing to the skin and will help combat any dryness and reduce inflammation you might have. Aloe vera is safe to use on your skin every day.

Baking soda is another great treatment that is safe to use. Because it doesn't contain any harsh ingredients it can safely be used without fear of triggering additional breakouts. Baking soda works because it is a drying agent that also acts as an exfoliant. To use, mix approximately 2 tablespoons of baking soda and mix with a little water (about a tablespoon) to create a paste. Use this paste the same way you would use a facial wash. The benefit of using this easy and inexpensive treatment is that it will help to dry out your pores and remove bacteria, clear up existing acne and keep acne from coming back. However, don't use the baking soda wash every day because it can dry out your skin too much. It can safely be used it 3 or 4 times a week.

Honey is something that you have in your kitchen that you might not have realized has superb healing properties. It is an anti-inflammatory to help reduce redness and it also has natural antibacterial properties. It can also be used to cleanse dirt and oils from the skin. You can use it directly on the skin by massaging it into your skin and then leaving it on like you would a face mask, for about 30 minutes. You can also make a gentle exfoliating scrub using honey and oatmeal. Mix about 2 tablespoons of oatmeal with enough honey to make a paste. Gently massage/wash your face with the paste and rinse with warm water. Honey can be used everyday as an acne treatment.

For a soothing facial steam try sea salt. It can help cleanse your skin and dry out your acne. It is also helpful for killing the acne-causing bacteria on your skin. Boil about 8 cups of water on the stove or in an electric kettle. Prepare a large bowl with about 1/4 cup of sea salt. When the water is hot, pour it over the sea salt and place your face over the bowl in the steam. Drape a towel over your head to trap the steam. You can use this facial treatment daily to cleanse your pores.

All of these remedies are quick and easy to prepare and can have a beneficial effect not only on your acne, but your skin as a whole. They can be used in combination with other home remedies, herb and vitamin treatments and over the counter preparations as well. If your acne is severe or worsens you should seek treatment from your physician or a dermatologist.

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The information here is presented solely for informational purposes, and does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. The use of any home remedy in connection with other medications may cause adverse reactions. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. And if you are suffering from severe acne, please consult a dermatologist.