Acne develops when pores become clogged or infected with bacteria. It is a very common skin condition that affects roughly 80 per cent of the world’s population. People experience acne at different stages in their lives—teenage hormonal acne, menstrual cycle related acne and even adult acne. There are also many different types of acne (for example pimples, cystic and extreme or mild), so it may be beneficial to see a specialist to determine what type of acne you have, its severity and to get help in determining the best-customised treatment for your skin.
If you are dealing with the occasional breakout, these tips may be for you. Here are a few home remedies that can help you to deal with those pesky pimples.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. As such, it can help reduce inflammation associated with acne. Tea tree oil can work its way into the pores of the skin to help cleanse and disinfect. It also works as a moisturising solvent and can be used as a cleanser.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A study reported that along with a mixture of specific acne treatments, aloe vera was beneficial in reducing acne lesions on people with mild to moderate acne.
Honey
While there is much debate on if this particular item actually works, facts suggest that it possibly can. Honey has fine antibacterial properties, which is key in killing germs both outside and inside of your skin. With its mixture of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, healing and cleansing properties, it makes for an effective way to treat acne.
Garlic
Garlic has proven to be the age-old cure for almost every ailment you can think about. Have you ever heard the saying, “a clove a day keeps the dermatologist away”? This is said for good reason. Garlic contains allicin, which helps to kill the bacteria that causes acne. Now, this is not an invitation to chop garlic cloves and start putting them on your pimples. However, a good way to get your necessary dosage of garlic is to get it through garlic juice, tea, garlic extract or even using garlic powder.
Green Tea
Green tea can be helpful for reducing inflammation. Researchers have found that ingesting green tea, using it topically and even using green tea extract, can help improve the lesions, inflammation and redness associated with acne. So, have some green tea, try some green tea supplements or apply a green tea mask and help reduce the inflammation and redness that come with your acne.