Acne is a common skin condition consisting of red bumps, whiteheads, blackheads and cysts. There are many factors that can lead to acne, so it is hard to pinpoint the exact cause, and therefore treatment. Hormones and environmental and cosmetic agents that clog pores can all lead to acne. The best defenses against acne are a gentle cleansing routine to wash out bacteria and a visit to the dermatologist if it is severe. There are also many alternative remedies that can treat mild to moderate acne.
Aspirin
Aspirin contains active ingredients that kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Acetylsalicylic acid, found in aspirin, is very similar to salicylic acid and can reduce the buildup of oily sebum and dead skin cells that exacerbate acne. To treat your acne with aspirin, crush an uncoated aspirin tablet or two and mix with a couple drops of water. Apply the mixture to the blemish for about 15 minutes and then rinse. You can also mix it with honey or aloe vera and apply it as a face mask to the affected area. Another method is to allow an aspirin tablet to dissolve on a wet cotton disk. Exfoliate your face with the medicated disk by massaging your face in a gentle, circular motion. Leave the aspirin solution on your face for several minutes and then rinse it off.
Tea Tree Oil
The University of Maryland Medical center reports that tea tree oil (also called Melaleuca) can fight bacteria and reduce swelling associated with acne. A pro to topically applying tea tree oil to acne is the ability to treat it without side effects such as the dry, itchy skin associated with prescription or over-the-counter acne medications. To treat acne with tea tree oil, pour a small amount on a cotton ball and dab it onto the affected area.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste absorbs oil and dries the skin, so it can help dry out acne, according to University of Kansas School of Medicine dermatologist Audrey Kunin, M.D. Applying toothpaste over your entire face will dry out the skin, causing the pores to overcompensate and produce more oil, which can lead to more breakouts. Therefore, apply only a dab of toothpaste directly on a blemish for about 15 minutes and rinse. Also, avoid cinnamon toothpaste or bleaching varieties, which can irritate the skin.
Member Comments