Acne is something that many people deal with. According to the American Academy of dermatology, up to 50 million people can be affected by acne each year. Causes for acne can come from anything from genetics and hormones, to stress. While there are many ways to help clear your acne, sometimes the creams and sprays aren’t the answer to all of our acne problems. Here are some things that you may have around the house that are actually great natural remedies for acne.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This strong vinegar is packed with health benefits, including the ability to help fight off any bacteria that is making your face break out. It’s also great to use if you’re skin becomes very oily. After washing your face, create a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water and dip it a cotton ball in the mix. Apply it to any blemishes that you may have on your face. If you think that your skin is too dry after applying, make sure to use a moisturizer.
Tea Tree Oil: People are usually skeptical about adding oil onto your skin, especially if your skin is already oily. Tea tree oil is different from the oil that our skin produces and is actually helps prevent future breakouts. Dilute the tea tree oil with water in a 1:9 ratio and use a cotton swab to apply it to your problem areas.
Egg Whites: Egg whites are just as good for your face as their are for your overall health. If you have any dark spots from previous breakouts, then egg whites are a great way to help remove them. Take a couple egg yolks and whisk them together until they are frothy. After washing your face, apply the egg wash to your problem areas. Let it dry and add reapply the wash 2 to 3 more times, letting it dry again each time in between. After about 20 minutes, wash off with warm water and pat dry. Again, make sure to apply moisturizer onto your skin, especially if your skin feels very dry.
Banana Peels: If you’re an avid banana eater, don’t throw away those peels so quickly. The peels of a banana contain lutein, which helps with swelling and inflammation on your face. While you're enjoying your banana, rub the peel on your skin until you feel that you have covered your entire face. After about 30 minutes, you can rinse it off.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is a great way to exfoliate your skin and you can use it in different ways too. If you’re looking for a mask, add a little bit of water the the baking soda to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to your face and let it dry, then rinse off with warm water. If you want to make a scrub, apply a little more water to the baking soda, making the paste a little more runny.
Mint Leaves: While they won't help remove pimples from your face, mint leaves are great for redness and inflammation. Take a good amount (about a handful) of mint leaves and crush them using a blender or mortar and pestle. Use the crushed leaves and juice to add to your face. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse off with water.
Potatoes: Yes, it sounds crazy, but potatoes are great for calming down your acne. The vegetable is filled with potassium, sulfur, and phosphorus-all very helpful ingredients for clearer skin. Wash your face, but leave a little damp. Grade one potato and use the pulp and juice to rub on your skin in circular motions. After letting it dry, you can rinse it off with warm water.
Editing Note: This article did not filter through the normal EmpowHER editing and fact checking process. It was checked for spelling and grammar.