How To Get Rid Of Acne

A skin condition known as acne is the result of the accumulation of dead skin cells and sebum in the follicles of the skin. Acne is a prevalent condition, and the majority of individuals have encountered it at some point in their lives, particularly during their teenage years, when their sebaceous glands generate an abundance of oil. .

Acne is a prevalent skin condition that impacts approximately 85% of young adults worldwideTrusted Source.

The most effective acne solutions are conventional acne treatments, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide. However, these treatments can be costly and have undesirable side effects, including dehydration, erythema, and irritation.

This has led to a significant number of individuals attempting to treat acne naturally at home. In fact, a 2017 study discovered that 77% of acne patients had attempted alternative acne treatments.

There is a need for additional research on the efficacy of many household remedies, as they lack scientific support. However, there are still alternatives that you may consider.

This article investigates 14 prevalent home remedies for acne.

What is acne?

A skin condition known as acne is the result of the accumulation of dead skin cells and sebum in the follicles of the skin. Acne is a prevalent condition, and the majority of individuals have encountered it at some point in their lives, particularly during their teenage years, when their sebaceous glands generate an abundance of oil.

Nevertheless, acne is not age-specific, and a significant number of individuals in their 40s and 50s experience adult acne.

What is the source of acne?

Acne is initiated by the accumulation of sebum and dead skin cells in the pores of the epidermis.

Each pore is connected to a sebaceous gland, which is responsible for the production of sebum, a viscous substance. An excess of sebaceous can obstruct pores, resulting in an increase in the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, bacteria.

P. acnes is attacked by your white blood cells, resulting in skin inflammation and acne. Whiteheads, blackheads, and blemishes are prevalent symptoms of acne, although some cases are more severe than others.

Acne can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

genetics
diet
anxiety
hormonal fluctuations
infectious diseases
The most effective method of reducing acne is to use standard clinical treatments. Additionally, it is feasible to implement home remedies; however, additional investigation regarding their efficacy is required. The following are fourteen home remedies for acne.

Utilize apple cider vinegar

Advantages: affordable, easily accessible, enhances the appearance of acne scars
Drawbacks: may cause skin irritation
Apple cider vinegar is produced by fermenting apple cider or the unfiltered liquid from pressed apples.

Research has observed that it is capable of combating a variety of pathogens and fungi, as is the case with other vinegars.

Organic acids, including citric acid, are present in apple cider vinegar. Citric acid has been discovered to be effective in the treatment of P. acnes when used in conjunction with zinc oxide, according to research conducted in 2016.

As per research conducted in 2017, the appearance of acne scarring may also be enhanced by the lactic acid present in apple cider vinegar.

Although certain components of apple cider vinegar may be beneficial for acne, there is currently no evidence to support its use for this purpose. Certain dermatologists recommend against the use of apple cider vinegar altogether, as it has the potential to cause skin irritation.

Combine one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water (increase the amount of water for individuals with sensitive skin).
Gently apply the mixture to the epidermis with a cotton ball after cleansing.
Allow it to remain for 5 to 20 seconds, then clean it with water and press it dry.
This process should be repeated one to two times per day, as required.
Most dermatologists do not recommend the application of apple cider vinegar to the skin, as it can cause burning and irritation. If you decide to experiment with it, dilute it with water and use it in tiny quantities.

It is important to exercise caution when applying apple cider vinegar to the skin, as it has the potential to cause burning or irritation. Before applying the product to your face, it is imperative to conduct a patch test.

zinc supplement.
Advantages: substantiated by scientific research, extensive array of advantages
Drawbacks: may cause gastric or intestinal irritation; not recommended for topical application
Zinc is a critical nutrient that is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, metabolism, hormone production, and cell proliferation.

In comparison to other natural acne treatments, it has been relatively extensively researched.

Compared to those who were not treated with zinc, those who were treated with zinc experienced substantial improvements in the number of inflamed blemishes, according to a 2020 meta-analysisTrusted Source.

It is advisable to refrain from exceeding the safe upper limit of 40 mg of zinc per day, unless you are under the care of a medical professional.

The consumption of an excessive amount of zinc may result in adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal irritation and gastric pain.

It is also crucial to acknowledge that the efficacy of zinc application to the epidermis has not been demonstrated. This may be due to the fact that zinc is not effectively absorbed through the epidermis.

Formulate a masque consisting of cinnamon and honey.
Advantages: effortless to construct, antibacterial
Cons: Insufficient research to substantiate the assertions
The 2017 studyTrusted Source discovered that the combination of honey and cinnamon bark extract exhibited antibacterial effects against P. acnes.

Honey has the potential to either inhibit or eliminate the growth of P. acnes, according to research conducted in 2020. Nevertheless, this discovery does not inherently imply that honey is an effective treatment for acne.

According to a 2016 research conducted by Trusted Source, the application of honey to the skin following the use of antibacterial detergent was not more effective in treating acne than the soap alone. The study included 136 individuals with acne.

Although the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon and honey may alleviate acne, additional research is required.


Combine 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to create a paste.
Apply the mask to your face after cleansing and allow it to remain on for 10 to 15 minutes.
Completely rinse the masque off and massage your face dry.
The use of cinnamon may result in cutaneous irritation. Before applying the product to your epidermis, it is imperative to conduct a patch test.

Apply tea tree oil to the affected area.
Pros: requires minimal product, can be left on overnight, and is natural.
Drawbacks: dehydrating, essential oils are not FDA-approved
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that is derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree with a native range in Australia.

According to a 2018 studyTrusted Source, the application of tea tree oil to the epidermis has the potential to alleviate acne.

In 2019, a small studyTrusted Source discovered that participants who used a tea tree oil ointment for acne experienced less parched skin and irritation in comparison to those who used benzoyl peroxide. They were also more content with the treatment.

Tea tree oil may serve as an effective substitute for topical and oral antibiotics that may induce bacterial resistance when used for an extended period, as indicated by a 2017 studyTrusted Source.

Always dilute tea tree oil before administering it to your epidermis, as it is highly potent.


Combine one table spoon of tea tree oil with nine table spoon of water.
Apply the mixture to the afflicted areas by dipping a cotton swab into it.
If desirable, apply moisturizer.
This process should be repeated one to two times per day, as required.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate or monitor the integrity or quality of essential oils, despite the fact that research indicates that they have health benefits. Before beginning to use essential oils, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional and conduct research on the quality of the products of a particular brand. Before experimenting with a new essential oil, it is crucial to conduct a patch test and dilute any essential oil with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.

Apply green tea to your epidermis.
Advantages: effortless to prepare, numerous advantages, and organic
Drawbacks: insufficient research conducted
Drinking green tea can enhance one's health due to its high antioxidant content. It may also aid in the reduction of acne.

This is likely due to the polyphenols in green tea, which reduce inflammation and combat bacteria, which are the two primary causes of acne, as per 2017 researchTrusted Source.

There is a dearth of research that investigates the advantages of consuming green tea in relation to acne, and additional investigations are required.

For a period of four weeks, 80 women were administered 1,500 mg of green tea extract daily in a small 2016 studyTrusted Source. Women who consumed the extract experienced diminished acne on their nostrils, chins, and lips by the conclusion of the investigation.

Additionally, the application of green tea to the epidermis may prove advantageous.

In a 2020 studyTrusted Source, it was discovered that the application of green tea extract to the skin significantly reduces sebaceous production and blemishes in individuals with acne.

Although moisturizers and cosmetics that contain green tea are available for purchase, it is equally effortless to prepare one's own at home.


Boiling water is used to steep green tea for 3 to 4 minutes.
Allow the tea to settle after it has been steeped.
Apply the tea to your skin with a cotton ball or pour it into a spray container to spritz it on.
After allowing it to dry, flush it off with water and massage your skin dry.
Additionally, it is possible to incorporate the remaining tea leaves into honey and create a masque.

Apply witch hazel
Advantages: natural, present in numerous products
Drawbacks: inadequate research to substantiate the assertions
The bark and foliage of the North American witch hazel shrub, Hamamelis virginiana, are the sources of witch hazel extraction. At present, there is a dearth of research on the specific treatment of acne with witch hazel.

Thirty individuals with mild or moderate acne utilized a three-step facial treatment twice daily for six weeks in a modest 2017 studyTrusted Source that was funded by a skin care business.

Witch hazel was one of the ingredients used in the second phase of the treatment. By the conclusion of the investigation, the majority of participants observed substantial enhancements in their acne.

Also, research conducted in 2019 by Trusted Source indicated that witch hazel may have the potential to combat bacteria and alleviate skin irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to acne.


In a small saucepan, combine 1 tablespoon of witch hazel bark and 1 cup of water.
The witch hazel should be soaked for 30 minutes before the mélange is brought to a simmer on the saucepan.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue cooking with the lid on for an additional 10 minutes.
Allow the mélange to cool for an additional 10 minutes after it has been removed from the flame.
The liquid should be strained and stored in a sealed container.
Utilize a cotton ball to apply the product to clean skin on a daily basis, or as desired.
It is crucial to acknowledge that tannins may not be present in commercially prepared varieties, as they are frequently eliminated during the distillation process.

Aloe vera is recommended for moisturizing.
Advantages: natural, present in numerous products, and can be combined with other ingredients
Cons: The claims are not substantiated by a significant number of studies, and a significant number of products contain additives.
A translucent gel is produced by the fronds of aloe vera, a tropical plant. Lotions, balms, ointments, and cleansers frequently incorporate the emulsion.

It is commonly employed to treat: according to research conducted in 2018.

superficial wounds
dermatitis
burns
injuries
inflammation of the epidermis
Salicylic acid and sulfur are both commonly employed in the treatment of acne, and aloe vera is a rich source of both. According to research conducted in 2017, the application of salicylic acid to the epidermis has been shown to alleviate acne.

Aloe vera gel may enhance acne when combined with other substances such as tretinoin cream or tea tree oil, according to a 2018 studyTrusted Source.

Although preliminary research indicates potential, additional scientific investigation is necessary to determine the anti-acne properties of aloe vera.


Use a spatula to remove the gel from the aloe plant.
Directly apply the substance to clean skin as an emollient.
Repeat one to two times daily, or as desired.
You may also purchase aloe vera gel from the store; however, ensure that it is unadulterated aloe vera without any additional constituents.

Consume a fish oil supplement.
Benefits: effortless, can be discovered in food
Drawbacks: Results may not be immediately apparent
Omega-3 fatty acids are nutritious lipids that provide a variety of health advantages. Two primary forms of omega-3 fatty acids are present in fish oils: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

According to a 2019 studyTrusted Source, the risk of acne may be mitigated by the reduction of inflammatory factors through the consumption of high levels of EPA and DHA.

Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids may be obtained through the consumption of:

salmon
Sardines
anchovies
walnuts
chia seeds
flax seeds that have been pulverized
fish oil supplementation
Regularly exfoliate.
Pros: simplicity of use at home, availability of numerous products, and the availability of both chemical and physical alternatives
Drawbacks: potential for excessive exfoliation
The procedure of exfoliation involves the removal of the outermost layer of decaying skin cells. This may enhance acne by eliminating the skin cells that obstruct pores.

Exfoliating may also enhance the efficacy of acne treatments by enabling them to permeate deeper into the skin after the outermost layer of skin is removed.

At present, there is a scarcity of research on the efficacy of exfoliation in the treatment of acne.

In a limited 2016 studyTrusted Source, 38 patients with acne underwent eight microdermabrasion treatments at weekly intervals. The interventions resulted in some improvements among the participants who had acne scarring.

A modest 2017 studyTrusted Source discovered that six weekly microdermabrasion treatments were effective in promoting skin repair.

Although these findings suggest that exfoliation may enhance the health and appearance of the skin, additional research is required to address acne.

There is a diverse selection of exfoliation products available, but it is also possible to create an exfoliant at home using sugar or salt.

Please be advised that physical exfoliation may cause skin irritation and injury. As a result, certain dermatologists suggest that moderate chemical exfoliation be performed using salicylic or glycolic-acid products.

To prevent skin damage, delicately massage your skin if you opt to attempt mechanical exfoliation.

Consider utilizing Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.


Combine coconut oil and sugar (or salt) in equal quantities.
Apply the mixture to your epidermis in a gentle manner and then cleanse thoroughly.
Exfoliate as frequently as desired, up to once per day.
Maintain a diet that is modest in glycemic index.
Pros: beneficial for the body, as it reduces insulin levels
Cons: The claims are not substantiated by enough studies, and they are more difficult to monitor.
The glycemic index (GI) of a product is a metric that quantifies the rate at which it elevates your blood sugar.

Consuming foods with a high glycemic index results in an insulin surge, which is likely to lead to an increase in sebaceous production. Consequently, the development and severity of acne may be directly influenced by high-GI diets.

In a 2018 studyTrusted Source, 66 individuals adhered to either a normal or reduced glycemic diet. The levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone that is implicated in the development of acne, were lower in the individuals who were consuming a low glycemic diet after two weeks.

A 2017 study conducted by Trusted Source, which included 64 participants, discovered that individuals with moderate or severe acne consumed diets with a higher glycemic load and a greater amount of carbohydrates than those without acne.

These limited studies indicated that individuals with acne-prone skin may benefit from adhering to a low-glycemic diet. It is necessary to conduct additional, more extensive investigations.

Processed consumables, including:

white bread
sugary carbonated beverages
pastries
donuts
pastries
sweets
breakfast cereals that are high in sugar
Foods with a low glycemic index consist of:

berries
vegetables
legumes
nuts
whole or minimally modified cereals
Reduce dairy consumption
Benefits: is capable of alleviating acne
Drawbacks: controversial; requires additional investigation
The connection between acne and dairy is a subject of considerable debate.

Moderate or severe acne was linked to the consumption of whole milk on three or more days per week, according to a 2019 study conducted by Trusted Source with individuals aged 10 to 24.

In 2018, a studyTrusted Source that included 114 participants discovered that individuals with acne consumed substantially more milk than those without acne.

Conversely, a 2018 studyTrusted Source that included more than 20,000 adults did not identify any correlation between acne and milk consumption.

The data in these studies was self-reported by the participants, necessitating additional research to establish a genuine causal relationship.

Additional research is required to investigate the correlation between acne and milk.

Reduce tension
Advantages: can alleviate acne and is beneficial for the body
Drawbacks: requires additional investigation
The relationship between tension and acne is not entirely comprehended.

Additionally, tension may increase the likelihood of picking at facial areas. Acne can be exacerbated by the spread of microorganisms when one touches or picks their skin excessively.

Acne may be exacerbated by the hormones secreted during periods of tension, as indicated by 2017 researchTrusted Source.

According to a 2018 studyTrusted Source, acne may be alleviated by specific relaxation and tension reduction techniques; however, additional research is required.


receive additional slumber
participate in physical activity
engage in yoga
contemplate
inhale deeply
Exercise on a consistent basis
Advantages: regulates hormones, reduces acne, and is beneficial for the body
Drawbacks: the failure to cleanse one's face following physical activity may result in an increase in acne.
Little research has been conducted on the impact of exercise on acne. However, exercise has the potential to enhance acne by influencing bodily functions.

Exercise also contributes to the regulation of hormone levels, according to a 2018 studyTrusted Source.

Another 2018 studyTrusted Source indicated that exercise can reduce tension and anxiety, both of which can contribute to the development of acne.

CDC suggests that individuals engage in two distinct forms of physical activity per week, totaling 150 minutes. This may encompass the following: sprinting, trekking, raising weights, and walking.

When exercising outdoors, it is crucial to safeguard your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.

Always ensure that you cleanse your face after engaging in physical activity. It is possible to prevent breakouts by washing with a disinfectant and water to remove bacteria and perspiration.

Try brewer's yeast.
Advantages: easily accessible, can be administered orally or topically
Cons: requires several months to achieve effective results
Another alternative that may assist in the treatment of acne is brewer's or baker's yeast.

Hansen CBS, a strain of brewer's yeast, may be beneficial in reducing acne when administered orally, according to a 2021 publication.

In 1989, a studyTrusted Source of 139 individuals with acne demonstrated that 80 percent of those who used Hansen CBS brewer's yeast were either healed or significantly improved over a five-month period. In contrast, the placebo group saw only a 26 percent improvement.

At the same time, the most recent research indicates that a brewer's yeast elimination diet is beneficial for hidradenitis suppurativa, another skin condition.

In order to verify the efficacy of brewer's yeast in the treatment of acne, additional research is required due to the conflicting findings and limited research.


Combine one sachet of powdered brewer's yeast with one tablespoon of lemon juice.
Conduct an exhaustive blending process.
Apply the mixture to a clean face and allow it to sit for one minute.
Rinse with lukewarm water.
Dry the area by patting it.
Brewer's yeast can be incorporated into your diet by combining it with water or beverage, or by taking it in supplement form.

Exercise caution when administering any citrus juice, including lemon, to your epidermis. It has the potential to induce photosensitivity, which can result in a dermatitis and irritation when exposed to sunlight.

If you are in the sun, it is important to apply an additional layer of sunscreen and don a cap or scarf to safeguard your skin.

Methods for preventing acne
Although there is no entirely safe method to permanently eradicate acne, there are behaviors that can be incorporated into your routine to prevent blemishes. The following are a few suggestions:

Properly cleansing one's face is crucial for the prevention of acne. This involves the removal of superfluous sebum, grime, and perspiration on a daily basis.
Apply moisturizer: It is imperative to maintain the hydration of one's skin, regardless of experiencing acne. Excessive sebum and obstructed pores may occur when the skin generates oil to counterbalance, which occurs when the skin is dehydrated.
Restrict the use of makeup: Excessive makeup application may result in the obstruction of pores and the occurrence of acne. To prevent skin irritation, ensure that your makeup is noncomedogenic and fragrance-free. It is imperative to remove cosmetics, particularly prior to retiring for the night.
Avoid contacting your face: The act of stroking your face can result in the transfer of pathogens and pore-clogging impurities onto your epidermis.
It is advisable to limit UV exposure, as it dehydrates the skin, resulting in increased sebum production and capillary blockage over time.
Refrain from popping pimples: The act of popping a pore may result in infection, severe disfigurement, or hemorrhaging. This may also exacerbate the severity of your pimple problem by causing inflammation and clogging the surrounding pores.
When should one consult with a physician?
Individuals with moderate to severe acne should seek professional assistance in order to alleviate their symptoms. Prescription-strength acne treatments are accessible.

If you are experiencing the following symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist:

I have attempted every possibility, but nothing appears to be of assistance.
have recurring eruptions that resolve and recur
acquire acne in areas such as the upper limbs or quadriceps
have acne that is both excruciating and deeply rooted in the epidermis
have been experiencing acne for an extended period of time
have acne that has a negative impact on your social life, self-esteem, and confidence
I believe that your acne may be associated with a new medication that you are currently taking.
have brownish patches that are caused by rosacea
If you have a moderate case of acne, it may be beneficial to consult a doctor on a regular basis to monitor the progression of your complexion through treatment.

Frequently asked queries
Are home remedies for acne effective?
Numerous individuals opt to experiment with natural remedies. Although the majority of home remedies for acne have not been demonstrated to be clinically effective, they are accessible as alternative treatment options.

Nevertheless, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of a dermatologist if you are experiencing severe acne.

What is the speed at which home therapies for acne are effective?
Allow a minimum of four weeks for an acne treatment to be effective. In addition, the use of a different product every few days can irritate your skin, resulting in the development of new acne.

If a treatment is effective for you, you should observe some improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

What is the most effective method for removing acne scars?
Acne lesions do not spontaneously disappear. However, patients may enhance their appearance through in-office procedures, including microdermabrasion, lasers, microneedling, resurfacing, and injections.

Acne scars may also be diminished through consistent exfoliation and the application of home remedies, such as apple cider vinegar.

conclusion
Acne is a prevalent skin condition that has a variety of underlying causes.

The most effective treatments are conventional ones, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, according to experts. However, some individuals may find them irritating.

Numerous individuals opt to experiment with natural remedies. Although the majority of home remedies for acne have not been demonstrated to be clinically effective, they are accessible as alternative treatment options.

Nevertheless, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of a dermatologist if you are experiencing severe acne.

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