According to Acne.org, whiteheads are formed when sebum, or naturally produced oil, is trapped beneath the surface of the skin along with a small amount of bacteria. While whiteheads can lead to acne, they are often invisible to the naked eye. However, they can be uncomfortable if you have them. Fortunately, there are some home remedies that can help you to get rid of whiteheads, though these remedies have not been evaluated by the FDA for effectiveness, so you should talk to your doctor or dermatologist before trying them on yourself.
Kaffir Lime Leaves and Peanut Oil
According to Melanie A. Sachs, author of "Ayurvedic Beauty Care," a mixture of kaffir lime leaves and peanut oil is commonly used in Ayurvedic beauty care and medicine to rid the skin of unsightly whiteheads. To use kaffir lime leaves and peanut oil on the skin, place three kaffir lime leaves in a blender with three tablespoons of peanut oil. Blend on high speed until the mixture creates a thick paste with uniform consistency. Apply a thick layer of the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for 45 minutes before rinsing the skin with tepid water to remove the mixture. Clean the skin with a gentle soap, and pat the skin dry with a clean towel. Apply any moisturizer you regularly use to seal in moisture. This treatment can be done daily as long as it does not irritate your skin.
Pomegranate and Lime Juice
A mixture of pomegranate and lime juice is commonly applied to skin that has blackheads, whiteheads or acne. To use pomegranate juice and lime on the skin, mix one part fresh pomegranate juice with one part natural lime juice. With a clean cotton ball or pad, dab the mixture on the affected area. Leave the juice on the skin for one hour before rinsing your skin with clean, cool water. Cleanse the skin with a gentle soap to remove any sugars left on by the juice, and pat the skin dry with a cool towel. This remedy can be repeated up to three times per day as long as you do not notice any skin irritation. Make sure you use only natural pomegranate and lime juice when applying them to your skin, as added ingredients may further irritate your skin.
Sandalwood Essential Oil, Rosemary Essential Oil and Lemon Juice
According to Julie Gabriel, author of ""The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances," a mixture of sandalwood essential oil, rosemary essential oil and lemon juice can be applied to the skin to help get rid of blemishes and maintain optimum skin health. To use sandalwood essential oil, rosemary essential oil and lemon juice on the skin, mix one part sandalwood essential oil, one part rosemary essential oil and 10 parts freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small container or measuring cup. Dab a small amount of the mixture on a clean cotton pad and apply it to the affected are. Leave the mixture on the skin for 60 minutes before rinsing with cool water. There is no need to wash your skin with soap after using this treatment, which can be used once per day if desired.
References
- "Ayurvedic Beauty Care"; Melanie A. Sachs; 1994
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- Acne: What Is Acne?
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