According to Dr. James E. Fulton Jr., founder of the Acne Research Institute in Newport Beach, Calif., women can regularly have acne flare-ups and breakouts between the ages of 25 and 35. While acne can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for those past the stage of adolescence, there are some natural remedies that can help you in the battle against acne. While supporters of these remedies claim they have benefits, they have not been approved by the FDA for effectiveness, so you should talk to your doctor or dermatologist before starting any new home treatment.
Green Tea, Lemon Juice and Avocado Oil
According to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances," green tea, lemon juice and avocado oil can be used together as a skin tonic to help clear up acne when applied topically.
To use, steep one tea bag of green tea in hot water for four to five minutes, then discard the tea bag. Let the tea cool to room temperature. Add 2 tbsp. lemon juice to the brewed green tea along with 1 tbsp. avocado oil. Stir the mixture to blend and dab a small amount of the affected area with a clean cotton pad. Leave the mixture on the skin until it dries, about 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse with clean, cool water. Wash your skin with a gentle cleanser and then pat dry with a clean towel before applying your regular moisturizer if you use one.
This treatment can be used daily as long as it does not irritate your skin. Unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for two to three days.
Honey, Cinnamon and Lime Juice
According to Jethro Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Food and Home Remedies Since 1939," a mixture of honey, cinnamon and lime juice can be applied to the skin to help treat acne with natural ingredients.
To use, combine 2 tbsp. raw honey with 1/2 tsp. cinnamon and 2 tsp. lime juice in a small container. Apply the mixture in thick layer to clean skin and leave the mixture on for 20 minutes before rinsing the skin with cool, clean water. Pat dry and apply your regular moisturizer.
This treatment can be repeated up to two times per day as long as there is no skin irritation and it does not make your acne worse. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for two days.
Coriander, Cucumber and Fresh Mint Leaves
According to Melanie A. Sachs, author of "Ayurvedic Beauty Care," a mixture of coriander, cucumber and fresh mint leaves can to treat acne and get rid bacteria buildup on the skin.
To use, combine 1/2 tsp. coriander powder with 1/2 peeled, chopped cucumber and 1 tsp. chopped fresh mint leaves in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Apply a thick layer of the mixture to the face and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing the area with cool water. There is no need to wash with a cleanser.
This treatment can be repeated twice per day as long as no irritation occurs. Unused portions of the mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- "Back to Eden: Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Food and Home Remedies Since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- "Ayurvedic Beauty Care"; Melanie A. Sachs; 1994
- Mother Nature: Acne
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