5 Natural Remedies for Acne that Actually Work

You know the drill. You wake up, look in the mirror, and there it is: a big, honkin’ pimple staring back at you. Ugh. We’ve all been there, and we all know that feeling of desperation when we just want that blemish to GO AWAY.

Now, you could go out and buy one of those harsh chemicals masquerading as acne treatments. Or, you could take the natural route with one of these five remedies that actually work. Trust us, your skin will thank you!

Apple Cider

Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a powerhouse when it comes to natural acne remedies. This astringent helps to kill bacteria, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. Best of all? It’s inexpensive and easy to find at your local grocery store. Simply apply apple cider vinegar to a cotton ball or Q-tip and dab it on problem areas. Rinse it off after 10 minutes with warm water. For best results, do this twice a day.


Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree indigenous to Australia. Tea tree oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that make it an effective acne treatment. To use tea tree oil as an acne spot treatment, add a few drops to a cotton ball or Q-tip and apply it directly to the blemish. Do not rinse it off; let it air dry. Repeat this process 2-3 times per day until the blemish disappears.

Lemon Juice

Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps brighten skin while also reducing inflammation caused by acne breakouts. When used topically, lemon juice can help fade dark spots left behind by scars and blemishes. Dip a cotton ball or Q-tip in fresh lemon juice (do not use bottled lemon juice) and apply it directly to the skin; let it air dry before rinsing off with warm water. For best results, repeat this process 2-3 times per week until dark spots have faded away completely. *green tea bags over your eyes for about 15 minutes then rinse with cold water for bright under eyes!*

Honey

Honey is a sweet (literally!) remedy for acne scars and blemishes. This natural ingredient contains antibacterial properties that help fight off infection while also providing hydration to the skin. To use honey as an acne mask, simply apply a thin layer to clean skin and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. For best results, repeat this process 3 times per week.

 

*Bonus* Cinnamon and Honey Mask

This mask combines the power of two acne-fighting ingredients into one! In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon and honey. Apply the mixture to your face and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Repeat this process 1-2 times per week for best results.


These are just five of the many natural remedies for acne that actually work! So instead of running to the store for harsh chemicals masquerading as acne treatments, try one of these natural remedies first—your skin will thank you!