Acne is a common skin condition caused when sebaceous glands become hypersensitive and produce too much oil.
Oil build-up under the skin can result in whiteheads, pimples and blackheads forming. However, natural remedies exist that can accelerate healing time and help lessen its appearance.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an all-natural remedy for acne that works by fighting bacteria and reducing outbreaks. Its composition of organic acids such as acetic, lactic, and citric acids help kill Propionibacterium acnes which is the main bacteria associated with acne outbreaks.
ACV contains organic acids which exfoliate your skin by clearing away dead cells and revealing new, healthier layers beneath. They also restore its pH balance to its usual slightly acidic range, benefiting your overall wellbeing.
ACV also contains antifungal and antibacterial properties to prevent and treat breakouts, and antioxidants which may help clear acne, improve overall appearance of skin tone and prevent wrinkles.
However, it should be noted that there is insufficient scientific evidence supporting its use as an effective treatment for acne; rather, it might better serve as an adjunct therapy in treating mild cases of the condition.
Green Tea
Green tea can be an effective solution to combat acne and promote overall skin health, thanks to its antioxidant-rich composition that acts as an all-natural skin cleanser and decreases oil secretion, two key causes of acne.
Green tea contains plant-derived compounds called catechins that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Of the many studied catechins found in green tea, EGCG has the greatest potential as an antioxidant that may prevent damage to skin cells as well as decrease acne outbreaks.
Studies have revealed that topical green tea extracts help decrease sebum production and clear acne faster. Furthermore, these compounds prevent dead skin cells from adhering together which clogs pores and leads to breakouts of acne.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera’s soothing properties make it an invaluable addition to your skincare regimen, soothing irritations while speeding healing processes and aiding the absorption of other ingredients.
Aloe vera gel is a natural moisturizer that can be used to soothe skin conditions like sunburn, eczema, psoriasis and wounds. Furthermore, its aloesin component lightens hyperpigmentation for effective dark spot and acne scar fading.
If you suffer from inflammatory acne (red papules and pustules), aloe’s anti-inflammatory vitamins, enzymes and minerals can provide considerable help. Aloin provides antioxidant support that encourages overall skin healing while bradykinase helps limit excess inflammation within the body.
Arnica Montana is a multipurpose plant, suitable for home cultivation or found in commercial products, that can help combat acne effectively and safely. You can safely use it alone or combine with other acne fighting ingredients.
Honey
Honey is an effective and natural treatment for acne, providing soothing and healing relief to skin inflammation. Packed full of antioxidants and antibacterial agents that fight infection, honey also contains anti-inflammatory properties to fight inflammation effectively.
Natural ingredients found in honey have high humectant contents that help the skin retain moisture, leaving it soft and supple. Furthermore, honey contains enzymatic components which promote healing and regeneration – making this an effective natural acne treatment option.
Raw honey is the superior choice, according to Engelman. As it hasn’t been processed and pasteurised, its antibacterial and nutritional properties are at their maximum.
Manuka honey from New Zealand stands out as having one of the highest antibacterial activity levels among honey varieties available today, helping reduce swelling and redness associated with inflamed skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.