Acne breakouts can appear on the skin in many different forms, including blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, papules, nodules and cysts. Although many people try to treat their acne breakouts by applying chemical creams and toners, these products can end up irritating and exacerbating an acne condition. Luckily, acne breakouts can be treated naturally by using a few home remedies that can be just as effective as their chemical counterparts.
Baking Soda
Baking soda kills off acne-causing bacteria, and can be used on the skin as both a scrub and a toner to help treat acne naturally. To use baking soda as a scrub, mix 2 tbsp. of baking soda with enough water for a toothpaste-like substance to form. This paste can be gently rubbed onto the skin using circular finger movements for two minutes, then rinsed off with water. A baking soda scrub can be used two to three times per week. To use baking soda as a toner, fill an empty spray bottle with 4 oz. of water, then mix in 1 tsp. of baking soda. Spray the mixture onto clean skin and allow it to air dry. Repeat twice per day.
Tea Tree Oil
Benzoyl peroxide cream is the most common form of treatment for acne, but can cause the skin to become dry, red and irritated. Tea tree oil, which is extracted from the Australian tea tree plant, is as effective as benzoyl peroxide creams, but without the unwanted side effects. In order to use tea tree oil on the skin, it must first be diluted. To dilute the tea tree oil, a cotton swab can be dipped into pure tea tree oil, then again into water. The swab will then be ready to be applied to acne breakouts. Re-apply the diluted tea tree oil up to three times per day.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is an oil that is non-comedogenic, or will not clog the pores. It is also highly purgative when applied to the skin, and can flush out trapped oils, impurities and dirt from the pores. To use castor oil to treat acne, spread 1 tbsp. of castor oil onto the skin and massage it in with the fingertips. After a few minutes, lean over a bowl full of boiling water, and drape a towel over your head. The steam from the water will envelop the face, opening the pores to release any entrapment. After five minutes, the head should be lifted, and the face should be wipes clean using a damp washcloth. Repeat once per day.
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