Did you know that around 85% of adolescents have acne? Thus, it is unsurprising that it is one of the most prevalent skin disorders worldwide. Certain conventional acne treatments, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, are available, but they can be costly and may cause skin dryness, redness, or irritation.
This prompted many to seek more natural and DIY acne treatments. Nevertheless, the research found that 77% of people had attempted to heal their acne with home remedies. However, because the majority of home treatments lack a scientific basis, the majority of them are ineffective.
As such, we will discuss several successful home treatments for acne treatment in this post. However, let us first understand what causes acne.
What Causes Acne?
Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become blocked with excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells. Each of your pores is related to sebaceous glands that produce sebum. This excess sebum can occasionally clog your pores, allowing an unwelcome bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, to proliferate.
These P. Acnes are attacked by white blood cells, resulting in skin irritation and acne. Acne is frequently characterized by whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. However, numerous more variables contribute to the development of acne. They are as follows:
- Genetics
- Imbalances in the Hormones
- Stress
- Unhealthy Diet
- Infections
Although doctors recommend that acne be treated clinically, science has demonstrated that certain home treatments can be just as effective. Below we have mentioned four such acne home remedies.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is manufactured by fermenting apple cider, which is a natural, unsweetened, non-alcoholic apple beverage. As you may be aware, vinegar is well-known for its capacity to combat a variety of germs and fungi, and apple cider vinegar is no exception! It contains succinic acid, an organic acid that has been clinically demonstrated to effectively treat inflammation caused by P. Acnes and so avoid scarring.
Citrus acid and lactic acid are two more organic acids found in apple cider vinegar. Citrus acid possesses the ability to kill Propionibacterium acnes, while lactic acid has the ability to lessen acne scars.
Although apple cider vinegar appears to be the finest therapy for acne, physicians advise against its use due to some adverse effects such as skin inflammation.
How To Use It
In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:3 ratio (one part apple cider vinegar to three parts water. If your skin is really sensitive, add extra water; otherwise, the mixture may cause skin burn or irritation.) Cleanse your skin before applying the mixture. After cleansing, use a cotton ball to gently apply the solution.
Allow 15-30 seconds for the mixture to dry. Then, rinse your skin with cold water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
If necessary, repeat this procedure 1-2 times every day.
2. Zinc Supplement
Zinc has been clinically demonstrated to be an excellent acne treatment. Nonetheless, zinc should be a part of your daily diet because it is necessary for cell growth, hormone synthesis, metabolism, and immunity.
Two groups of persons were studied: those with acne and those with clear skin. The results suggested that those with acne had much lower zinc levels in their blood than those with clear skin.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that consuming zinc orally significantly reduces the risk of acne. Zinc has also been shown to be quite effective in treating severe and inflammatory forms of acne!
The recommended daily intake of elemental zinc is approximately 30-45 mg. The term “elemental zinc” refers to the amount of zinc contained in a substance. Among the numerous zinc compounds, Zinc Oxide (ZnO) contains the greatest elemental zinc, about 80 percent!
However, as with many other chemical components, excessive consumption of zinc might have negative consequences. It is possible that it will produce stomach discomfort and intestinal irritations. Additionally, if you believe that administering zinc straight to the affected area can work miracles, you are probably mistaken. This is because our skin is incapable of absorbing zinc and other trace nutrients.
3. Honey and Cinnamon Mask
As we all know, honey is quite antimicrobial, and cinnamon is really effective in reducing skin inflammation. Thus, they create an excellent combination for combating bacteria such as P. acnes. Additionally, honey has been scientifically demonstrated to be effective in halting the growth of P. acnes. This is not to say, however, that honey alone is extremely effective at treating acne.
Additionally, a medical study conducted on 136 persons revealed that regular soap is considerably more helpful at curing acne than honey.
Nonetheless, you can always treat damaged regions of skin with a mixture of honey and cinnamon.
How To Use It
Combine honey and cinnamon in a 2:1 ratio and create a paste (2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
After cleansing your skin, apply the paste and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse your face with cool water
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a botanical oil that is derived organically from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. Tea tree oil is highly effective at combating bacteria, reducing skin inflammation, and treating acne. Additionally, it has been discovered that combining tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide is more effective and incredibly mild on the skin while treating acne.
It has no adverse effects on the skin, such as inflammation or dryness. When this mixture was applied to a group of persons in the course of the research, the participants reported feeling content and at ease with the treatment.
Additionally, dilute tea tree oil before putting it to the skin, as it is rather strong.
How to Use It
Combine tea tree oil and water in a 1:9 ratio (One part tea tree oil and 9 parts water)
Utilize a cotton ball to apply this solution to the affected areas.
Thoroughly rinse your skin with cool water. Apply moisturiser if the skin becomes dry.
Repeat 1-2 times daily
The Bottom Line
Acne is a common occurrence among many youngsters. Additionally, there could be a multitude of underlying causes.
It is entirely up to you whether to use natural or clinical therapies. However, before proceeding with a treatment, make an appointment with a dermatologist to ensure your safety!