Acne occurs due to an overproduction of oil, or sebum, on the skin, or a collection of dead skin cells or bacteria on the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Mild and moderate acne may be treatable using over-the-counter acne medications in combination with home remedies. More severe acne cases, however, may require the attention of a dermatologist.
Steam With Tea Tree Oil
Chrystle Fielder, author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Natural Remedies” recommends tea tree oil to help reduce blemishes. Heat boiling water over the stove, then pour it into a plugged-up kitchen or bathroom sink. Add a few drops of tea tree oil and mix the water with a spoon. Lean over the sink and place a towel over your head to trap the steam. The oil and steam will help open the pores and reduce acne, says Fielder.
Keep Skin Free of Bacteria
Touching your skin can spread bacteria and oil to the afflicted area. Do not touch your face, except to apply medication or wash your face. Pull your hair back to prevent the oils in your hair from getting on the hairline and skin. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase that contains oils and dead skin cells may create more acne. Wash your pillowcase at least once a week with an unscented, mild detergent to remove oil and dead skin cells from the pillow.
Switch Makeup
Wearing makeup may cause acne, particularly if the makeup contains oil. Choose an oil-free, unscented makeup that is noncomedogenic, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Wash your makeup off as soon as possible, and do not sleep in makeup, says dermatologist James E. Fulton Jr., M.D., Ph.D., founder of the Acne Research Institute in Newport Beach, California. Wash your face before bed with a gentle oil-free cleanser.
