Approximately 40 to 50 million Americans suffer from acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, which makes it the most common skin disorder in the country. Clogged pores, excessive oil production, bacteria and inflammation all contribute to acne, although the exact cause of the condition is unknown. Many over-the-counter and prescription products exist to treat acne, and home remedies may also provide some benefit in mild to moderate cases. Consult your dermatologist if you do not see improvement in four to eight weeks of using over-the-counter treatments or home remedies, or if your skin becomes inflamed or excessively painful.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that may help treat acne. A study published in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology" in 2007 examined tea tree oil's effects on individuals with mild to moderate acne. In the study, patients received treatment of 5 percent tea tree oil or placebo daily for 45 days. Patients who received the tea tree oil treatment experienced significant improvement in the number of acne lesions and their severity. The authors of the study concluded that 5 percent tea tree oil gel provides an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne, when applied topically.
Facial Steam
A weekly facial steam opens the pores and allows them to drain, according to Bill Gottlieb in his book "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies." This process helps heal acne and prevents future outbreaks. Bring 4 cups water to a rolling boil, transfer to a large heat-proof bowl or basin, and place on a sturdy surface. Lean over the basin, positioning your face about 12 inches away from the water, and drape a towel over your head to prevent the steam from escaping. Remain for about 10 minutes, and splash your face with cold water after steaming to close the pores. If you have oily skin, try adding 1 tsp. dried yarrow leaves to the boiling water.
Baking Soda Mask
A mask made of baking soda and water can help draw oil out of the blemishes and prevent future acne outbreaks. In the book "A Woman's Complete Guide to Natural Health," Lynne Paige Walker and Ellen Hodgson Brown recommend combining 2 parts baking soda with 1 part water to make a thick paste. Apply the mixture directly to the affected areas, and leave on for about 30 minutes, or until dry and flaky. Rinse the mask with tepid water, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, and follow with an astringent and light moisturizer. Repeat once a week for the best results. For extra healing power, add 1 to 2 drops tea tree oil to the mask mixture before applying.
Nutmeg and Honey
An old folk remedy for treating acne consists of applying a mixture of nutmeg and honey directly to blemishes, according to the Reader's Digest Association in the book "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems." Honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that may contribute to its reported effectiveness in this remedy. Combine 1 tsp. each powdered nutmeg and pure honey, and apply the mixture directly to the affected areas. Leave on for about 20 minutes, and rinse with tepid water. Repeat once daily, as needed.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Acne
- PubMed.gov: The Efficacy of 5 Percent Tea Tree Oil Gel in Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
- "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "A Woman's Complete Guide to Natural Health"; Lynne Paige Walker, Ellen Hodgson Brown; 2003
- "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems"; Reader's Digest; 2004
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