When the skin produces an excess amount of oils and sebum, the oils and sebum can become trapped inside the pores. These trapped oils and sebum can then become infected with bacteria, resulting in acne pustules, cysts and nodules. To help heal acne breakouts and blemishes and prevent them from returning, it is important to soak the pores to release blockages, apply an antimicrobial oil to pull the impurities out and tone the skin with a substance high in vitamin C to increase the rate at which the skin cells turn over.
Step 1
Soak the skin in a oil that won't clog the pores to allow the pores to release blockages and impurities. Smooth 1 tbsp. of olive oil onto your skin, and massage it in deeply with your fingers for three minutes. Fill a bowl with steaming hot water, and lean 18 inches over the bowl. Drape a towel over your head to target the steam over the face. After five minutes, wipe off the skin with a damp washcloth. Repeat up to three times per week.
Step 2
Apply an antimicrobial clay mask that will pull impurities and bacteria from the pores. Combine 1 tbsp. of French green clay with 2 drops of tea tree oil, and spread it onto the skin. Allow the mask to remain on the skin until it dries, which takes about five minutes. Rinse off the skin with water. Repeat up to two times per week.
Step 3
Apply a citrus toner that is high in vitamin C, which will help the skin develop new skin cells and keep the pores clear. Fill an empty spray bottle with 8 oz. of concentrated lemon juice, and spray the skin liberally after it has been cleansed. Allow the juice to dry on the skin completely. Repeat once per day.
Tips and Warnings
- Olive oil is an oil that won't clog the pores, and it can be used to empty pores that contain excess sebum, oils, bacteria and impurities. The olive oil bonds to the oils and sebum in the skin. When steam and heat are applied, the pores will open and release the olive oil along with the excess sebum, oils and bacteria. The Department of Dermatology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital suggests that using tea tree oil on acne breakouts is just as effective as benzoyl peroxide in killing acne-causing bacteria. Tea tree oil can be used without causing side effects that are typically present when using a benzoyl peroxide cream, such as burning or peeling. Vitamin C helps the skin slough off dead skin cells more quickly, while supporting the skin in creating new skin cells. This keeps the pores more clear and acne-free.
Things You'll Need
- Olive oil
- Bowl
- Towel
- Washcloth
- French green clay
- Tea tree oil
- Lemon juice
- Empty spray bottle
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