Acne is a skin condition that happens mostly during teenage years leading to blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples (pustules) and deeper lumps (nodules). This skin condition occurs due to hormonal imbalance and is generally seen on the face, but can also occur on the neck, back, shoulders, chest, or upper arms. The primary cause of acne is hormonal imbalance leading to over stimulation of sebaceous glands.
Topical prescription medications as well as oral medications are available for treating acne. These include Retinoids and retinoid-like drugs which contain retinoic acids or tretinoin. But they are known to increase skin’s sun sensitivity and can also cause dry skin and redness. Antibiotics for treating acne kill excess skin bacteria and reduce redness and inflammation. But they too show side effects. For mild acne you should consult a dermatologist.
However, there are also effective home remedies to treat this skin condition.
Here is a list of effective home remedies for acne-
1. Lemon
The citric acid present in lemon is extremely effective in treating acne. Moreover, it is a powerful astringent that helps in getting rid of excess oil, kills bacteria, and stabilises your skin’s pH balance. Lemon also contains vitamin C which plays an important role in adding a healthy glow to your skin. These elements present in lemon naturally dry up the pimples.
- You can apply lemon juice on the areas affected with acne and leave it overnight and then wash off next morning.
- You can also mix one part lemon juice with an equal part of rose water and apply on your affected areas for 30 minutes and then wash off.
2. Aloe
Aloe Vera is a good cellular regenerator and has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. You can apply Aloe Vera juice or gel to work against the infection and also for healing. Aloe Vera juice is also great for acne scars. Apply it in the morning and night to reduce the scars and enhance skin complexion. Additionally, the pulp of the Aloe plant can be used as a skin cleanser. You can simply take a part of the plant, make a pulp out of it and rub it on your skin.
Also read: Dry? Normal? Oily? Do You Know Your Skin Type?
3. Cucumber
The cleansing action of cucumber eliminates built up of old and accumulated gunk and chemical toxins. It also purifies your blood and rejuvenates the lymphatic system, which clears the skin. Peel a cucumber and put it in a blender to make juice. Apply it to your acne affected areas. You can also think of drinking four or five cups of cucumber juice daily for a week.
4. Garlic
The alkaline salts and sulphur compounds in garlic makes it a blood purifier. Garlic also keeps your skin free of spots and pimples. You can rub raw and crushed garlic on the affected areas for a number of times daily and wash off when it gets dried. However, if your skin is sensitive, you will have to be very careful as garlic is a strong substance which can burn or irritate your skin. Applying garlic juice is also another option for acne treatment
5. Cilantro
Another highly effective natural remedy for acne is a mixture of cilantro juice and turmeric powder. You can apply the mixture on the pimples and blackheads after washing the area every night before going to bed. Mint juice, holy basil and fenugreek juice have similar therapeutic effects on acne because of their antiseptic, astringent properties which heal the infection and dry up the excess oil.
6. Sandalwood
Known as a mild astringent, sandalwood strengthens and contracts your muscles, gums and skin. It is can also give you a tighter skin tone. You can also make a paste of sandalwood and rose water and apply it on the affected areas. Once dried, wash it off with tap water.
7. Rose water
The common properties of rose water include stimulating the skin and boosting blood flow. It also controls and balances sebum production, which makes it beneficial for dry as well as oily skin. Moreover, rose water restores your skin’s pH and tightens pores. The antibacterial properties present in rose water fights acne and gives damaged skin a gentle therapeutic effect. Think of applying rose water on your face with a cotton ball before going to bed.
Also read: What Are Pores and How Can I Reduce Them?
8. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is another highly effective agent for acne treatment because of its bacteria-fighting constituent called Terpenes. Terpenes either kills or weakens the acne-causing bacteria, which are then successfully destroyed by your antibodies. Moreover, it takes care of the inflammation part of acne and soothes it down. Remember to apply tea tree oil on the affected parts only as it can dry out other unaffected areas with less active oil glands.
DocGenie is an online telemedicine platform that provides you with quality healthcare from the comfort of your own space. On DocGenie, you can book an online consultation with highly-qualified doctors as well as book lab tests for home collection.
