Natural Acne Treatments

Most people attribute acne to something that happens during adolescence. Unfortunately, for me and many of you, it's been more of a lifetime struggle. For a while I used ProActiv and was having great results, but after bleaching more than a few of my "nice" towels while drying my face, I began to wonder what those chemicals could be doing to my face. I also wasn't thrilled when I realized I was paying $100 for each order. So I did some research for not only some cost effective remedies for acne but plain ole effective remedies. Here are a few that I have tried and that have worked for me along with the science to back it.

Tea-tree oil

Dab a drop of tea tree-oil on blemishes to help get rid of infections. Studies have found that a solution with 5% tea tree-oil is as effective against acne as a solution with 5% benzoyl peroxide.  Benzoyl peroxide is an active ingredient used most frequently in over the counter acne treatments, such as Clearasil or ProActiv, and it's also found in many prescription acne meds. You can find tea-tree oil in many beauty supply stores.

Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

All vinegars contain acids that can flush out pores. Vinegar also kills 99% of bacteria that it touches. I have been experimenting with using apple cider vinegar as a toner for over a month and I must say, "I love it." I wash my face with a mild soap, typically black soap or olive oil soap. Afterwards, I get a plastic bottle and place 1 part apple cider vinegar in it and 1 part water. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can be very strong and have fumes so instead of half vinegar and half water you may want to have 4 parts vinegar to 6 parts water. Whatever, tickles your fancy. However, I would advise against using 100% ACV. It may make your eyes water and the smell can be strong, but it goes away after a few minutes.  Place the solution on a cotton ball and wipe it across your face. Do this twice a day, everyday and watch your acne decrease. You can find apple cider vinegar in grocery stores. Its ridiculously cheap.

Preventing Acne

There is no way to get rid of acne for good...that I know of but these tips may help slow down the occurrences.

1. Avoid wash cloths; they collect bacteria if you use them more than once and irritate the skin

2. Rinse razors with alcohol that you plan on using on your face

3. Don't touch your face; Your hands encounter some pretty dirty things throughout the day and every time you pop a pimple or place your hands on your face as you pout your are collecting bacteria and germs on your face

DISCLAIMER
On Granny's Cures we strive to provide information from credible sources but we are no substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.