Acne is caused by a bacteria that thrives in pores that have become clogged and filled with an overproduction of the skin's natural oils. Treatments for acne focus on opening clogged pores and killing the bacteria that cause acne. Topical applications of vinegar may improve acne.
Vinegar contains acetic acid, a mild form of acid similar to the salicylic or glycolic acids frequently used in commercial acne treatments. The acid in vinegar helps gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells. It also creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria and helps dissolve the oils that clog pores.
Preparation
To use vinegar to treat acne, prepare a solution of vinegar diluted in water or green tea. Apple-cider vinegar is recommended, but distilled white vinegar can also be used. Begin with a solution of 5 parts water to 1 part vinegar; you can increase the vinegar content over time if the vinegar does not irritate your skin. You can also add 1 part witch hazel to your solution. Another recipe calls for 1/4 cup honey (which has moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties) mixed with 1/2 cup vinegar and 1 cup of green or chamomile tea.
Application
Cleanse your face using a gentle cleanser. Pat your skin dry, then apply the vinegar solution using a cotton ball. If your skin tolerates the vinegar solution well, you can allow it to dry, then follow with a moisturizer for your skin type. (If your skin does not tolerate the vinegar solution well, rinse it off and apply moisturizer.) You can use a vinegar solution on your face several times daily.
Time Frame
Regular use of vinegar to treat acne may result in some improvement in only a few days. However, it can take one to two months of daily treatment for completely resolve an acne breakout. Be consistent in your use of a vinegar acne treatment, and you should see results.
Spot Treatment
To target a single pimple, you may apply undiluted vinegar to the affected spot using a cotton-tipped swab. Allow the solution to dry before applying moisturizer or make-up. The smell of the vinegar will be strong at first, but will fade over time. To avoid irritation, keep the vinegar away from your eyes and other mucous membranes.
Side Effects
When applied to the skin, vinegar can cause stinging or burning. If your skin stings or burns when you apply the vinegar solution, wash it off right away and try using a more diluted solution. Vinegar can also make your skin dry, because it dissolves your skin's natural oils. Always follow the vinegar solution with moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer that is labeled "noncomedogenic," which means it does not contain ingredients that cause pore blockages.
Member Comments