Overnight Zit Home Remedy

Acne, a common skin disorder characterized by the appearance of pimples or zits, occurs when pores become clogged with bacteria and dead cells. Hormones also play a role in the development of blemishes, according to MayoClinic.com, making the condition most common in teenagers. While many commercial products claim to get rid of pimples fast, you can also make your own overnight zit home remedy by using healing clay and tea tree essential oil. Clay has been used for centuries to clean oily complexions and remove impurities from the skin. Although the treatment cannot completely remove zits overnight, it can help reduce inflammation and expedite healing.

Step 1

Combine the cosmetic clay with an equal amount of water in a small bowl. If the mixture is too thick, add a few more drops of water and stir until you achieve a paste-like consistency.

Step 2

Add the tea tree essential oil, if using, and stir again until well combined. The oil has antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it ideal for use on acne-prone skin.

Step 3

Dab the mixture directly onto pimples, staying away from the sensitive areas around the eyes. Leave the clay mixture on your blemishes overnight to draw out excess oil and dirt.

Step 4

Rinse thoroughly with tepid water first thing in the morning. Pat the skin dry and apply a gentle moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness. If the zit remains, repeat nightly for as long as necessary.

Tips and Warnings

Rosemary Gladstar, author of "Herbal Healing for Women," recommends using green or red cosmetic clay for treating zits because they tend to be more potent than white clay. Purchase these clays from health food stores or online retailers. A study published in 2007 in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology" found that tea tree oil worked better than placebo at treating mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris when diluted to 5 percent and applied topically. Double or triple the recipe to make enough clay mixture for a face mask, if desired. Apply to the entire face, allow to dry completely, rinse with tepid water and pat dry. Do not leave a clay face mask on overnight, as it may remove too much moisture from the skin.