Because summer heat and high UV radiation can irritate acne-prone skin, it is important to use good remedies to fight acne in the summer. While conventional drugstore treatments will do the trick, alternative, and natural remedies can be equally effective. Plus, you’ll save money and help protect the environment. We’ve found 7 effective home remedies that fight acne and you probably already have some of these in your kitchen cabinet.
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil contains approximately 100 compounds, some of which have acne-fighting properties. A study of 124 patients found that 5% tea tree oil solution work almost as effectively as benzoyl peroxide in treating acne but with less side-effect. Mix tea tree oil with another non-comedogenic carrier oil like cold-pressed sunflower oil and use it as a makeup remover. Or put tea tree oil directly to your acne and leave it on for a couple of minutes. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties and is gentler on the skin than most commercial products, but it can be drying so you might want to dilute the oil.
2. Cinnamon and honey mask
Among facial mask recipes for acne, the cinnamon and honey mask is an all time favorite. Cinnamon has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties which are all perfect for acne sufferers. Honey is a great binding ingredient that also has great acne-fighting properties. Honey’s antimicrobial properties are due to its enzymes like methylglyoxal found in manuka honey. Honey will also soothe your skin, moisturize it, and preserve its pH. Make a paste by mixing honey with cinnamon powder, apply the paste to your face, and leave it on for as much as you like. Rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Oil cleansing
The oil cleansing method is a controversial skin care treatment. While some swear by it, others believe that it made their skin worse. The theory behind oil cleansing is that oil dissolves oil. Oil cleansing might be best for those with non-inflammatory acne, i.e. blackheads. By rubbing a mixture of oils into your skin, you’ll be able to dissolve the sebum clogging your pores. The oil cleansing method works like a deep exfoliating technique and should be done moderately. Use castor oil and a carrier oil like sunflower, almond or jojoba oil depending on your skin type. Rub the oil mixture on your skin for 5 minutes and clean your face with a damp washcloth. Benefits of coconut oil can also taken into consideration for oil cleansing.
4. Baking soda and apple cider vinegar scrub
This facial scrub is best for treating blackheads and removing dead skin cells. Those with cystic acne should avoid this treatment as it might be too aggressive for the skin. Everyone has baking soda and apple cider vinegar in their kitchen cabinet which makes this scrub one of the cheapest and easiest ways to remove blackheads during summer months. Apple cider vinegar kills bacteria while baking soda dissolves clogged pores. Mix the two ingredients and gently scrub your face, wash as usual and apply moisturizer.
5. Turmeric acne treatment
Turmeric is one of the most extensively studied herbal remedies. Turmeric has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can help with digestive problems, pain, inflammation, cancer and, of course, acne. Mixing turmeric with any carrier of your choice (honey, olive oil) and applying it as a mask is one of the best acne treatments you could be using this summer. Turmeric will help reduce inflammatory acne, fade scars, and improve overall skin health.
6. Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a flowering plant whose leaves and bark are used to make astringents and is a common ingredient in many skin care products. It is used to treat common skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and rash. Witch hazel extract is also great for treating acne, and it is very safe to use.
7. Green tea
If you notice your skin becoming increasingly oily due to summer heat, applying the green tea to your face can help reduce excess oil production according to one study. The study found that a 3% green tea emulsion significantly reduced sebum production after consistent use. While we don’t know yet its effects on acne, we can only assume it can help due to green tea’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Summer has its many ups, but, unfortunately, it also makes things harder on those who deal with acne and oily skin. These 7 home remedies are proven ways to treat acne-prone skin and are also great if you are on a budget or care for the environment. Try some of these treatments and see if they will work for you this summer.
References:
2. http://www.rd.com/health/beauty/home-remedies-for-acne/
