Teenagers are not the only ones plagued by acne. The American Dermatologist Association states that twenty percent of adults suffer from the condition as well, according to the Acne Resource Center. While severe acne may require a visit to your dermatologist, several home remedies offer effective results in flushing out facial flare-ups.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil furnishes antimicrobial effects, which battle blemish-causing bacteria. As per Cure-Guide.com, tea tree oil proves just as effective as benzoyl peroxide, a major ingredient of commercial acne treatments. Dr. Scott M. Rinehart, professor of dermatology at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock, reported in the book “Amazing Antidotes” that tea tree oil, which is available at health food stores, works equally as well as commercial acne products, but offers less irritation to the skin. He suggests a combination of equal parts tea tree oil and water. Soak a cotton ball into the mixture and apply it to pimples and blackheads. Restrict use to no more than two times a day.
Goldenseal
Another acne home remedy found at the health food store promises significant results in two weeks when used twice daily, according to Dr. Jeanette Jacknin, a dermatologist in Scottsdale, Arizona, as cited in the book “Amazing Antidotes.” Powdered goldenseal root, an effective disinfectant, works to fight flare-ups when coupled with tea tree oil. Combine 1/2 teaspoon of the goldenseal to 12 drops of tea tree oil. With your clean fingers or a cotton swab, dab the paste onto your pimples. Rinse with cold water after 15 to 20 minutes.
Vinegar
Vinegar contains acids which help to exfoliate the skin, slough off dead cells and regenerate the complexion, according to Dr. James Fulton, a dermatologist in California, as cited in the book “Home Remedies: What Works.” Cleansing your face with a cotton ball soaked in apple cider vinegar every morning is an acne treatment technique Dr. Fulton recommends. He adds that both vinegar and lemon juice “flush out the pores, and either is great as an acne wash.”
Witch Hazel
Fight your acne issues with a witch hazel and rubbing alcohol concoction suggested by Dr. Kathlyn Quatrochia, a naturopathic physician from Oak Glen, California, in “Home Remedies: What Works.” Combine equal parts rubbing alcohol and witch hazel. Soak a cotton ball in the liquid and apply it to your pimples. Allow the treatment to dry for 25 to 30 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water, then a cold splash. This blemish blocker astringent provides results in two weeks, reducing pimples and firming pores.
An application of equal parts witch hazel and and mouthwash provides another home remedy for acne which eradicates excess oil secretion. Soak cotton balls in the concoction and pat on your blemishes. Cleanse your face with warm water after 25 to 30 minutes. Rinse with a final splash of cold water. According to “The Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies,” witch hazel helps unclog oil-filled pores, while mouthwash offers potent disinfectant properties.
