Acne affects approximately 85% of young adults, making it one of the most common skin conditions in the world.
Professionally done acne treatments, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide. are the most effective solutions to acne, however, they can be quite pricey and are proven to have unwanted effects like dryness, redness, and irritation.
Because of its inconvenient prices, people who are looking for cheaper alternatives have looked into curing acne naturally at home. However, most of these home remedies lack scientific explanations, and research on their effectiveness and safeness are needed.
But, some have actually succeeded in getting rid of their acne through natural and simple remedies. So if you are up for some alternative acne treatments, these are the options you can try.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar made from fermented apple juice, the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. And similar to other vinegars, it is well-known to fight against various types of bacteria. It contains organic acids, such as citric acids, that can kill acne.
While certain elements of apple cider vinegar can help with acne, there’s no evidence to support it. In fact, some dermatologists are against the use if apple cider vinegar, as it can irritate the skin.
So, it should be used with caution and only in small amounts and diluted with water.
How to use it
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (use more water for sensitive skin.)
- Clean your face and use a cotton ball to gently apply the mixture to the skin.
- Let sit for 5-20 seconds and rinse with water, pat dry.
- Repeat this process 1-2 times a day, as needed.
Zinc Supplement
Research claims that people with acne are found to have lower levels of zinc. That is why it is recommended to take zinc supplements.
A Zinc supplement is an important nutrient that contributes to cell growth, hormone production, metabolism, and immune function. This natural remedy for acne has support to back its claims compare to other home remedies.
There are studies that show that taking zinc orally helps reduce acne. A 2014 review claims that zinc is more effective at treating severe acne than moderate acne cases. Previous studies have also observed that while there’s no fixed dosage, experiments show that taking 30-45 mg of elemental zinc resulted in a significant reduction of acne.
The recommended optimal dosage though is 40 mg per day. It is best to not exceed that limit unless you are under the supervision of your medical doctor.
Tree Tea Oil
Tea tree oil, an oil extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, is an essential oil known to fight against bacteria and reduces skin inflammation. Studies also show that applying tea tree oil to the skin can reduce the appearance of acne. Compared to other home remedies, there are also fewer dry skin and skin irritation experiences.
Keep in mind that tea tree oil is very potent, so always dilute it with water before application.
How to use it
- Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 9 parts water.
- Use a cotton ball and dip it into the mixture, gently apply to affected areas.
- Apply moisturizer, if needed
- Repeat this process 1-2 a day, as needed.
Green Tea
In some Asian countries, green tea is considered a holy grail, with tons of health benefits. It is very high in antioxidants and drinking it is good for the health.
Green tea contains polyphenols. This particular component helps fight bacteria and reduces inflammation.
However, there’s not enough research to prove green tea’s effectiveness against acne. In one small study conducted with 80 women, the participants took 1,500 mg of green tea extract every day for 4 weeks. The study concluded that the women had less acne in areas such as the nose, the chin, and around the mouth.
Factors that contribute to acne, such as high blood sugar and insulin levels, can also be meditated by drinking green tea. Applying green tea directly to the skin might also help with acne.
How to use it
- Steep green tea in boiling water for 3-4 minutes.
- Allow it to cool.
- Using the cotton ball, gently apply the tea to your skin. You may also pour the tea into a spray bottle and spray it on the face.
- Allow the green tea to dry in the face, then rinse it off with water and pat the skin dry.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a common ingredient found in lotions, creams, ointments, and soaps. The leaves of this plant produce a clear gel that is often used for rashes, burns, abrasions, and other skin conditions. The application of aloe vera to the skin helps heal wounds, burn, and inflammation.
Aloe vera has salicylic acid and sulfur, both of these are significantly used in acne treatments and are proven to help reduce acne.
While aloe vera and its magical clear gel show promising results, its usage for acne still requires further research.
How to use it
- Use a spoon and scrape out the gel from the aloe vera plant.
- Apply the gel directly to the skin, similar to how you would apply a moisturizer.
- Repeat 1-2 times a day, as needed.
