Acne Home Remedies

Acne is a big problem for many people.  We associate it with teenagers, but people of all ages, races, and genders can suffer from acne.  In bad cases, acne can lead to scarring and permanent disfigurement, even after the blemishes have healed.

Medical treatments for acne are often effective.  However, they're also expensive, and frequently have undesirable side effects.  People who want to treat their acne, but either don't want to or aren't able to take advantage of medications for their problem often look for home remedies.

There are a number of different traditional ways to deal with acne blemishes.  Their effectiveness will vary, depending on the individual user and what kind of acne they're suffering from.  Everyone's skin is a little different.  If one acne home remedy doesn't work, try another.

An oatmeal application has been said to reduce blemishes.  Cook the oatmeal, let it cool until it's no longer unpleasantly hot, then apply it to your face.  Leave this on for fifteen minutes, and then wash it off.

Herb baths are also popular.  Nettle and rosemary are two herbs that are said to help reduce acne.  Witch hazel is another, as well as basil.

Applying lemon juice and rosewater in equal parts with a cotton ball may help with blemishes.  Leave the mixture on for a half hour, and apply it for fifteen to twenty days.

Treating the face with cucumbers or cucumber juice may help.  Laying teabags or putting tea on affected areas can kill the bacteria responsible for blemishes.  Make sure your tea is unsweetened!

Of course, an important part of any skin care routine is washing your face correctly.  Many people scrub their face and use drying cleansers in an attempt to reduce oily skin, which can contribute to acne.  However, if you over dry your face, your pores will actually produce more oil in an attempt to cure this “problem.”

When you buy a cleanser, look for terms like “oil-free” and “non-comodogenic.”  “Mild,” “non-irritating,” and “doesn't over dry” are also important terms.  Many cleansers also contain medications.  This can help kill bacteria that cause acne, but be sure not to overuse these medicines.  You can irritate your skin and cause other side effects.

Don't over wash!  Twice a day is enough.  More than that can irritate your face.  Also, don't rub your face dry.  This can also cause irritation, leading to more breakouts.  For this reason, you should also avoid washcloths or scrubbers in favor of washing with just your hands.

A correct facial care regimen, and use of natural remedies that are effective on your skin can significantly reduce the incidence of breakouts and the risk of having to visit the doctor.  Controlling acne could be an important self esteem boost for many people, who suffer anxieties about how they look.  Try a few natural remedies, carefully, and you may see an improvement.