10 DIY Remedies for Acne
Having acne in college can be embarrassing, and it can strike at any moment. As a college student you hope to feel as though you are ready to conquer the world, but those pesky red bumps on your face just won’t seem to go away. You could turn to expensive spa treatments or harsh prescription drugs, but first try these 10 DIY remedies for acne that are sure to soothe even the worst breakouts– (completely naturally!)
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1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, or ACV as it is commonly known, can be used for just about anything. ACV is made by crushing apples and squeezing out the juice, and adding bacteria and yeast to allow it to ferment. During this process, the vinegar turns into acetic acid- forming bacteria, which is likely what contributes to ACV’s use as an astringent. ACV works best for acne when applied topically– just dab some onto a cotton ball and apply! However, start slowly and dilute with water, as it can dry out skin if used too frequently or too soon.
2. Baking Soda
Did you know that this common kitchen item is also one of the more popular DIY Remedies for acne ? Baking soda is an amphoteric, which means that it will fix any and all pH imbalances of your skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and will help to rid skin of excess oil. Combine baking soda with water to create a paste, and apply to problem areas for about 15 minutes. Be sure to moisturize after using this method.
3. Spearmint Tea
Love drinking tea? Spearmint tea has antioxidant properties that will help to protect your skin and also prevent acne scars, and make it more difficult for acne-causing bacteria to grow. Lastly, spearmint tea can help discourage production of the hormone testosterone while encouraging production of estrogen, which is known to help prevent breakouts. Because of this, spearmint tea is the perfect acne remedy for women who tend to break out during menstruation, or for anyone with hormonal acne.
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4. Tea Tree Oil
Did you know that a study published in 1990 by the Medical Journal of Australia found that tea tree oil treated acne just as well as benzoyl peroxide (the common active ingredient in over-the-counter acne medications?) This effective oil is perfect as a spot treatment, but be sure to dilute it at first, as it can cause irritation of the skin. Tea tree oil works best if applied to clean skin before bed, or any time you will not be wearing makeup for a few hours.
5. Turmeric Mask
A homemade turmeric face mask can be the perfect remedy for a variety of skin ailments, including acne, rosacea, inflammation, and redness. Turmeric brightens the skin and helps promote healing. To make this face mask, combine equal parts turmeric, raw and organic honey, and milk. Apply to your face and let dry for 20 minutes, then wash off. Extra mask can be stored in the fridge for several days.
6. Strawberries, Honey and Lemon Mask
Strawberries and honey sound like a great combination for a snack, but they make an even better face mask! Strawberries contain natural salicylic acid– the active ingredient found in most over-the-counter acne spot treatments. Honey has anti-bacterial properties, while lemon is a natural astringent. Cut 5 strawberries into small pieces, then mash with a fork until mushy. Take ¼ of an organic lemon and squeeze the juice onto it, and add a tablespoon of organic honey. Stir all 3 ingredients together, and apply to problem areas immediately.
7. Banana Peels
Few people know that banana peels can be used to help fight acne. Banana peels include vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as potassium, iron, zinc, and manganese. For optimal use, only use bananas that are fully ripe: they should be bright yellow with a few brown spots. Simply rub the inside of the banana peel over trouble spots for 5-10 minutes– until the peel turns black. Try to wait as long as you can before rinsing off the residue, so the nutrients can be absorbed into your skin.
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8. Essential Oil Blends
Many essential oils are included in DIY remedies for acne, and can be combined together in a way that best helps your own skin type. In addition to balancing hormone levels, essential oils can help to alleviate stress and anxiety and help you sleep better. Lavender, bergamot, jojoba, clary sage, rosemary, frankincense, juniper berry, and oregano essential oils all can help your skin become more clear.
9. Giving Up Coffee
Did you know that drinking caffeinated coffee is actually a major cause of breakouts? Although this is certainly not what sleep-deprived college students want to hear, coffee actually boosts stress hormones that can trigger breakouts, and the added sugar and milk also contribute to skin problems. It won’t be easy, but cutting the coffee from your diet might be more helpful in the long run.
10. Witch Hazel
Last but not least, witch hazel is one of the best DIY remedies for acne. However, its wide variety of uses is not commonly known, and it is mostly used only in traditional medicine. Witch hazel has astringent properties, and acts as a disinfectant, anti-irritant, and anti-inflammatory. Additionally, witch hazel helps to open pores, which in turn helps to moisturize the skin while simultaneously killing acne-causing bacteria.
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Do you have any acne horror stories that could only be resolved using DIY remedies for acne? Let us know in the comments!
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