There are various methods to treat acne, but many people prefer not to use chemical compounds, clinical techniques, or oral medications. In such cases, knowing effective natural ingredients for home remedies is very useful.
According to the family magazine service of Saed News, many home remedies can balance oil levels in the skin, reduce inflammation, eliminate bacteria, prevent acne, and treat existing pimples. These treatments include essential oils, herbal remedies, natural supplements, and simple lifestyle changes. In this article, you will learn about effective home remedies for acne and natural ingredients available for eliminating acne scars and how to use them. Join us as we explore these remedies.
Natural Ingredients and Methods for Treating Acne at Home
1) Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory agent. It can kill Propionibacterium acnes (the bacteria that cause acne) and reduce the swelling and redness of pimples. You can apply tea tree oil extract as a cream, gel, or essential oil directly to your acne. If using the essential oil, be sure to dilute it first in a carrier oil. Combine two drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of pure coconut oil and apply it to the pimples.
2) Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, also known as Hamamelis, is a beneficial plant and one of the best-known remedies for eliminating acne scars. This natural astringent controls inflammation and redness while reducing bacterial growth on the skin. Soak one tablespoon of witch hazel bark in a cup of water for 30 minutes. Then, heat the mixture on the stove until it boils. Cover the container, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool for another 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and store it in a sealed container. Apply this solution with a cotton ball to clean skin 1-2 times a day as desired. If traditional preparation is inconvenient, you can use gels, wipes, and other products containing witch hazel.
3) Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a natural waxy substance extracted from the seeds of the jojoba shrub. The waxy substances in jojoba oil help repair damaged skin, which means they can accelerate the healing of wounds, including acne and its resulting damage. Some compounds in jojoba oil may reduce skin inflammation, helping to decrease redness and swelling around pimples, whiteheads, and other inflamed lesions. Mix jojoba essential oil with gel, cream, or clay face mask and apply it to your acne. Alternatively, apply a few drops of jojoba oil on a cotton ball and gently rub it on the affected areas.
4) Olive Oil
The benefits of olive oil are well-known. This oil is not only good for your overall health but also serves as an effective home remedy for acne. Olive oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help treat acne. Moisturized skin heals acne and its scars faster than dry skin. Olive oil is excellent for this purpose because it hydrates the skin without clogging pores if properly cleaned. Apply two drops of olive oil to your face. Place a warm, damp towel on your face to open pores and allow the oil to penetrate. Finish by washing your face with lukewarm water and drying it with a clean pad. Any remaining oil will be absorbed gently.
5) Lemon
Lemon acts as a natural bleach that helps lighten acne scars. It removes dead skin cells, promotes new cell growth, and improves skin elasticity.
Methods to Use Lemon as a Home Remedy for Acne:
Apply fresh lemon juice directly to acne and scars with your fingertips or a cotton ball. Wait for about 10 minutes, then rinse your face with water. Repeat this once or twice a day.
Mix equal parts of lemon juice and honey. Apply the mixture to acne scars using a cotton ball or swab. Wait for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with water and gently dry your face. Use this method once a day.
Combine one teaspoon of lemon juice with one teaspoon of vitamin E oil. Apply this mixture to acne scars before bed and wash it off the next morning. Repeat nightly.
Note: Be cautious when using lemon juice near the under-eye area, as the skin here is delicate and can be damaged by acidic compounds.
6) Green Tea
Green tea contains high concentrations of a group of antioxidants called catechins, making it a home remedy for acne. People with acne often have excess sebum or natural skin oils and insufficient antioxidants. Antioxidants help the body break down chemicals and waste products that may damage healthy cells. Green tea helps clear waste and impurities accumulated in open acne lesions. This ingredient also contains compounds that can:
Reduce sebum production
Decrease Propionibacterium acnes population
Lower skin inflammation
Enjoy the benefits by drinking green tea or applying its extract to your skin. Although scientific evidence is limited, some studies indicate that using green tea polyphenol extract for eight weeks resulted in a 79-89% reduction in whiteheads and blackheads.
7) Potato
Potatoes are rich in starch, which helps fade acne scars and skin blemishes. To use potatoes for treating acne scars:
Grate a potato and extract the juice using a cloth, separating the pulp. Apply the potato juice to acne scars and leave it for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Rub a thick slice of potato gently on your skin for a minute. Let the potato juice sit on your skin for 15-20 minutes, then rinse.
8) Coconut Oil
You've likely heard of coconut oil's benefits for skin and hair health. Fortunately, scientific research supports these claims. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, coconut oil can help eliminate acne scars. Using coconut oil also promotes overall skin health and aids in treating acne.
Methods to Use Coconut Oil as a Home Remedy for Acne:
Warm coconut oil and apply it to acne scars, massaging gently for 5-10 minutes. Wait an hour before rinsing with lukewarm water.
Mix two drops of lavender oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the affected area and massage for a minute or two. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Use this method once or twice daily for several weeks.
