Natural Ways to Get Rid of Pimples
The best way to start the day is with a strong cup of coffee and a killer outfit. Even if you’ve covered both bases, a zit staring back at you in the mirror can be a total bummer. And because we’re so familiar with that sensation, we did some research on how to treat pimples at home. Here is a list of some of the most effective home remedies and quick fixes we use when we have an acne outbreak…
Causes of pimples
The following are some of the most common causes of pimples:
Excessive sebaceous gland oil production can cause pores to become clogged with dirt and dead skin cells, resulting in acne and pus-filled pimples.
Bacterial infections are caused by a type of bacteria called P. acnes, which lives at the base of the hair follicle and causes breakouts.
Skin inflammation is your body’s defensive response to both external and internal aggressors such as allergies and infections. It is the root of many skin problems, including pimples and breakouts.
Aerated drinks, white bread, white rice, and processed sugar are all dietary staples that can cause breakouts and pimples. This is because the carbohydrates in these foods raise the glycemic index in your body, causing blood sugar levels to fluctuate.
Excessive sebum production occurs when your skin is overly sensitive to the testosterone hormone. This, in turn, causes increased hormonal acne and breakouts in some people more than others.
How to remove pimples at home
Now that you know what causes pimples, here are some natural ways to get rid of them at home. Make sure not to overdo it with these home remedies, and always perform a patch test before using any kitchen ingredient on your face.
- Use aloe vera and garlic instead.
Aloe vera is a great hydrator for the skin, and when combined with the antiseptic and clarifying properties of garlic, it can be a great detox mask for pimples. Allicin, an active component found in garlic, has antibacterial properties. They hasten healing and help treat pimples when combined with the antioxidant properties of aloe vera.
To make a paste, mash two peeled garlic cloves together. Mix in the 1 teaspoon of fresh aloe vera pulp thoroughly. Apply the mixture to the affected area, wait 20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water. Repeat once a day until the pimple disappears.
- Let’s go bananas!
Don’t throw away the peel of a banana after you’ve eaten it! Because bananas are high in potassium, vitamins, and minerals, many of which are stored in the peel, we say this. This nourishing group of nutrients will help to strengthen your skin’s barrier and protect it from damage and breakouts.
How to Apply: Cut a small piece of ripe banana peel and place the inner white side against your skin. After rubbing it gently for 10 minutes, wash your face. Repeat this twice a day, and you’ll be able to say goodbye to pimples in a matter of days!
- Use cinnamon and honey.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of pimples at home, try the tried-and-true combination of cinnamon and honey. Your pimples will soon be gone thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon and anti-bacterial honey.
To make a thick paste, combine 12 teaspoon cinnamon with 2 tablespoons honey. Apply it to the affected area and leave it alone for 30 minutes. Once a day, wash it off with warm water and repeat the treatment.
- Freeze it
Using ice cubes to remove pimples is a surprising yet effective method. The ice cube’s temperature constricts the blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface, reducing its size.
Place a single ice cube directly on top of a pimple and leave it there for 3 minutes. Repeat the procedure twice a day until the pimple is gone.
- Use baking soda instead.
The next time you have a zit, remember that baking soda isn’t just for baking. Baking powder, with its excellent exfoliating properties, removes oily residue, balances the pH level of the skin, and soothes irritation.
How to use: Gently rub a baking powder and water paste directly on your pimple for 10 minutes. Wash it away thoroughly and do it every other day.
- Make use of apple cider vinegar.
Raw apple cider vinegar contains acetic, citric, lactic, and succinic acids, all of which can kill acne-causing bacteria on your face.
How to use: Dilute some raw ACV with water in a 1:3 ratio. Wash your face gently, then apply the ACV solution to your pimples with a cotton ball, leaving it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with cold water. For best results, apply a moisturizer afterward and repeat every week.
- Apply tea tree oil to specific areas.
Tea tree oil is one of the most widely used acne spot treatments. This essential oil, with its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, can help reduce the size of acne lesions and cure them gently. However, before using essential oils on your face, make sure you are not allergic to them.
How to Apply: Combine 1-2 drops tea tree oil and 10-12 drops jojoba carrier oil. Wash and pat dry your face with a gentle cleanser. Use a Q-tip to apply the diluted oil to your pimples. Allow it to dry before applying your regular moisturizer. For best results, repeat this process twice a day.
- Use witch hazel extract to tone your skin.
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that has long been used in skincare remedies. Witch hazel can dry out blemishes and clear blackheads and whiteheads from your pores when it comes to pimples.
Apply a few drops of witch hazel toner to a cotton pad and dab it all over your face. To avoid over-drying your face, do this every day after cleansing it. Follow up with a moisturizer.
- Green tea can be used to relieve inflammation.
It contains the antioxidant compound epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which helps to regulate sebum production, fight inflammation, and inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria in your skin.
How to use: Spritz a couple of tea bags with water and place them in the fridge. Place the tea bags on your blemishes after they have cooled for about 10 minutes. Wash off with cold water and repeat as necessary throughout the day.
FAQs about home remedies for pimples
- Is water beneficial to acne?
Yes, drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day can keep your skin hydrated all day. Dry skin is one of the leading causes of excess oil production, which leads to breakouts.
- Is toothpaste effective in shrinking pimples?
Yes, while the toothpaste’s benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid content will quickly shrink it, it can be quite irritating to the skin. This quick fix has also been linked to the development of stubborn and difficult-to-remove post-acne scars.
- Can coffee cause acne?
A. A single cup of morning coffee will not harm your skin if consumed without milk or sugar. However, consuming too much coffee throughout the day can dehydrate your skin and cause breakouts.