Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting an estimated 85% of people at some point in their lives. Conventional acne treatments can be expensive and often have undesirable side effects like dryness, redness and irritation. This has prompted many people to look into how to cure acne naturally at home. The internet is filled with suggestions, but do natural treatments actually work?
This article explores 13 home remedies for acne that are backed by science.
Acne starts when the pores in your skin get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Each pore is connected to a sebaceous gland, which produces an oily substance called sebum. Extra sebum can plug up pores, causing the growth of a bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes.
Your white blood cells attack P. acnes, leading to skin inflammation and acne. Some cases of acne are more severe than others, but common symptoms include whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Many factors contribute to the development of acne, including genetics, diet, stress, hormone changes and infections.
Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. Like other vinegars, it is known for its ability to fight many types of bacteria and viruses.
How to Use It
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (use more water for sensitive skin).
- After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton ball.
- Let sit for 5–20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
- Repeat this process 1–2 times per day, as needed.
It is important to note that applying apple cider vinegar to your skin can cause burns and irritation, so it should always be used in small amounts and diluted with water.
SUMMARY:The organic acids in apple cider vinegar may help kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce the appearance of scars. Applying it to the skin may cause burns or irritation, so it should be used carefully.
2. Take a Zinc Supplement
Zinc is an essential nutrient that's important for cell growth, hormone production, metabolism and immune function. It is also one of the most studied natural treatments for acne. Research shows that people with acne tend to have lower levels of zinc in their blood than those with clear skin.
Several studies have shown that taking zinc orally helps reduce acne. In one study, 48 acne patients were given oral zinc supplements three times per day. After eight weeks, 38 patients experienced an 80–100% reduction in acne.
The recommended safe upper limit of zinc is 40 mg per day, so it is probably best to not exceed that amount unless under the supervision of a medical doctor. Taking too much zinc may cause adverse effects, including stomach pain and gut irritation.
It is also important to note that applying zinc to the skin has not been shown to be effective. This may be because zinc is not effectively absorbed through the skin.
SUMMARY:Individuals with acne tend to have lower zinc levels than people with clear skin. Several studies show that taking zinc orally can significantly reduce acne.3. Make a Honey and Cinnamon Mask
Both honey and cinnamon are excellent sources of antioxidants. Studies have found applying antioxidants to the skin is more effective at reducing acne than benzoyl peroxide and retinoids. These are two common acne medications for the skin that have antibacterial properties.
The antioxidants studied were vitamin B3, linoleic (omega-6) fatty acid and sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP), which is a vitamin C derivative. These specific antioxidants are not found in honey or cinnamon, but there is a possibility that other antioxidants may have a similar effect. Honey and cinnamon also have the ability to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, which are two factors that trigger acne.
While the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of honey and cinnamon may benefit acne-prone skin, no studies exist on their ability to treat acne.
How to Make a Honey and Cinnamon Mask
- Mix 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon cinnamon together to form a paste.
- After cleansing, apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse the mask off completely and pat your face dry.
SUMMARY:Honey and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Because of this, they may be beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Green tea is very high in antioxidants, and drinking it can promote good health. There aren't any studies exploring the benefits of drinking green tea when it comes to acne, but applying it directly to the skin has been shown to help. This is likely because the flavonoids and tannins in green tea are known to help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, which are two main causes of acne.
The major antioxidant in green tea — epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) — has been shown to reduce sebum production, fight inflammation and inhibit the growth of P. acnes in individuals with acne-prone skin. Multiple studies have shown that applying a 2–3% green tea extract to the skin significantly reduces sebum production and pimples in those with acne. You can buy creams and lotions that contain green tea, but it is just as easy to make your own mixture at home.
How to Use It
- Steep green tea in boiling water for 3–4 minutes.
- Allow tea to cool.
- Using a cotton ball, apply tea to skin or pour into a spray bottle to spritz on.
- Allow to dry, then rinse with water and pat dry.
You can also add the remaining tea leaves to honey and make a mask.
Even though there isn't any evidence that drinking green tea can fight acne, some research suggests it may still be beneficial.
For example, drinking green tea has been shown to lower blood sugar and insulin levels, which are factors that can contribute to the development of acne.
SUMMARY:Green tea is high in antioxidants that help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. Applying green tea to the skin has been shown to significantly reduce acne.5. Apply Aloe Vera, Mint and Neem paste in face
Aloe vera also contains salicylic acid and sulfur, which are both used extensively in the treatment of acne. Neem has a antibacterial properties which helps to clean the bacteria from our face.
How to Use It
- Scrape the gel from the aloe plant out with a spoon. And mix it with neem and mint leaves. Mix and grind it properly to make a fine paste.
- Apply paste directly to clean skin as a moisturizer and wait until it is fully dried. And after that wash with face wash.
- Repeat 1–2 times per day, or as desired.
SUMMARY:When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel can help heal wounds, treat burns and fight inflammation. It may be beneficial for individuals with acne-prone skin, but more research needs to be done. Neem has a antibacterial properties which helps to treat fungal skin diseases also. Mint is also a medicinal herb plant which also helps to improve brain functions and helps to relieve indigestion.6. Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells. It can be achieved mechanically by using a brush or scrub to physically remove the cells. Alternatively, it can be removed chemically by applying an acid that dissolves them.
Exfoliation is believed to improve acne by removing the skin cells that clog up pores. It is also believed to make acne treatments for the skin more effective by allowing them to penetrate deeper, once the topmost layer of skin is removed. Unfortunately, the research on exfoliation and its ability to treat acne is limited. Some studies show that microdermabrasion, which is a method of exfoliation, can improve the skin's appearance, including some cases of acne scarring.
How to Make a Scrub at Home
- Mix equal parts sugar (or salt) and coconut oil.
- Scrub skin with mixture and rinse well.
- Exfoliate as often as desired up to once daily.
SUMMARY:Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells. It may reduce the appearance of scars and discoloration, but more research needs to be done on its ability to treat acne.7. Reduce Stress
The hormones released during periods of stress may increase sebum production and skin inflammation, making acne worse. In fact, multiple studies have linked stress to an increase in acne severity . What's more, stress can slow wound healing by up to 40%, which may slow the repair of acne lesions. Certain relaxation and stress-reduction treatments have been shown to improve acne, but more research needs to be done
Ways to Reduce Stress
- Get more sleep
- Engage in physical activity
- Practice yoga
- Meditate
- Take deep breaths
SUMMARY:Hormones that are released during times of stress can make acne worse. Reducing stress may help improve acne.8. Exercise Regularly
Exercise promotes healthy blood circulation. The increase in blood flow helps nourish the skin cells, which may help prevent and heal acne. Exercise also plays a role in hormone regulation.
Several studies have shown that exercise can decrease stress and anxiety, both of which are factors that can contribute to the development of acne. It's recommended that healthy adults exercise for 30 minutes 3–5 times per week. This can include walking, hiking, running and lifting weights.
SUMMARY:Exercise promotes healthy blood circulation, regulates hormones and helps reduce stress.
Acne is a common problem with a number of underlying causes. However, conventional treatments can cause dryness, redness and irritation.
Fortunately, many natural remedies can also be effective. The home remedies listed in this article may not work for everyone, but they just might be worth a try.
Nevertheless, you may want to consult a dermatologist if you have severe acne.
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