Acne breakouts are usually treated by applying chemical creams and lotions that are touted to dry up blemishes and eliminate acne. Although these acne products can dry up blemishes, they can also cause unwanted side effects, such as peeling, dryness and even burning. However, a few natural acne treatments will clear up acne blemishes without causing skin damage in the process.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that tightens the pores while sloughing away dead skin and bacteria that clog and infect them. Baking soda can be applied twice per day as a toner or once per day as an exfoliating facial scrub. To use baking soda as a toner, fill an empty spray bottle with a mixture of 8 oz. water and 1 tbsp. baking soda. Spray your face with this mixture after washing, and allow it to air dry. To use baking soda as a scrub, mix 1 tbsp. baking soda and 1 tsp. water. Massage the paste around the skin, and rinse it off with fresh water after two minutes. Avoid scrubbing the baking soda into the skin too aggressively, which can irritate the skin.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a highly antimicrobial oil that is as effective as benzoyl peroxide but doesn't cause side effects, such as burning or peeling. Tea tree oil is extracted from a tea tree plant and bottled in its pure form. Using the pure form of tea tree oil can cause redness and feel too strong for some sensitive skin. For this reason, pure tea tree oil should be diluted before it is applied to the skin. To dilute tea tree oil, dip a cotton swab into the pure oil, then dip it again quickly into water. Spread the diluted tea tree oil onto the acne breakouts up to three times per day. Avoid applying tea tree oil to the area near the eyes.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a highly purgative oil that will not clog the pores when applied to the skin. Cleansing the skin with castor oil will clear out the pores while maintaining proper hydration in the skin. This treatment will significantly decrease the frequency of acne breakouts and will make the skin supple and soft. To use castor oil as a cleanser, massage 1 tsp. castor oil into the skin with your fingertips. After two minutes, place a steaming washcloth over your face, allowing the steam to open the pores and release the impurities. Once the cloth cools, use it to wipe off the oils and impurities from the skin. Castor oil can be used twice per day to cleanse the skin.
Member Comments