Scientists can put a man on the moon, but they can’t seem to find a way to completely rid people of acne. Over the counter products may help, but there are also a number of tried and true home remedies for acne that you can use next time a pimple rears it’s ugly red, white or black head.
What Causes Acne?
There is a thick, oily substance called sebum that our bodies produce as a natural lubricant. An overproduction of sebum causes pores to become blocked. One of the main reasons why our bodies increase production of this substance is the fluctuation of hormones during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy. Birth control pills have also been linked to an increase in sebum production.
Other culprits that can trigger acne are stress, clothing rubbing against the face, chest or back and even genetics. Fortunately, there are simple, effective home acne remedies out there. Here’s a few:
The Most Effective Over The Counter Acne Treatments
Benzoyl Peroxide
- Benzoyl Perozide mildly irritates the skin, which helps dying skin to flake off, which in turn aids in reopening clogged pores.
- Also great at killing off that bacteria that infects congested pores.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids
- Alpha-hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, keeps pores unclogged by sloughing off the top layer of dead skin cells.
- Creams, lotions and gels that contain 8% glycolic acid will be the most effective in treating acne and preventing new pimples from forming.
Aspirin
- Believe it or not, one or two aspirins taken 4 times a day will reduce the inflammation that comes with an acne outbreak.
The Most Effective Natural Acne Remedies
- Use a cotton ball to dab a little vinegar or lemon juice on acne. They both have acids in them that will flush out those clogged pores.
- Use Aloe Vera on pimples. Did you know that a study proved that Aloe makes 90% of pimples disappear within 5 days?!
- Got blackheads? Mix 1 teaspoon Epsom salt, 3 drops of iodine and ½ cup of water. Bring it to a boil. Once cool, use it on a cotton ball to really clean those pores.
An Ounce of Acne Prevention…
- It makes sense to think that keeping your skin free of all of that dirt and oil in the first place will provide an excellent defense against flare-ups. The truth is, over cleaning will cause the glands to produce more oil, thus causing pimples.
- Don’t reuse washcloths. Not only are they abrasive to sensitive skin, but whatever bacteria they’re harboring will be transferred to your skin.
- For men, dip your razor in a little alcohol after shaving to ward off any bacteria.
When To Call The Doctor
Usually a pimple every once in a while just comes with the territory, however, if pimples do not respond to over the counter treatments or home acne remedies within 3 months, then you may want to see a dermatologist. Also, if your skin becomes seriously inflamed, with painful fluid-filled lumps accompanied by a reddish or purplish cast, something more serious may be going on.