If you’re like most people, you want to try to solve your acne problems before resorting to seeing a dermatologist. This is understandable – after all, visiting a doctor when it may be unnecessary is a waste of time and money. While no at-home solution can substitute working with a trained medical professional, it’s always a good idea to be an informed patient.
In this blog post, we will discuss 10 different home remedies for acne that you can try. We’ll also provide some tips on how to best use these solutions. So, if you’re struggling with acne, ruling out these common problems is a great place to start!
1. Hydrate your skin.
One of the most important steps you can take to prevent acne is to make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Keeping your skin hydrated helps reduce inflammation and encourages cell turnover, which can help clear up blemishes and keep future breakouts at bay.
2. Use an oil-free cleanser.
When washing your face, it’s important to use a cleanser specifically designed for acne-prone skin, like this one. Look for products that are labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to help decrease the amount of pore-clogging oils on your skin.
3. Don’t over-scrub your skin.
While it might seem like a good idea to scrub away all of the dirt and oil on your face, this can actually make acne worse. Over-exfoliating can cause micro tears in the skin, leading to further breakouts and irritation. Instead, use gentle, circular motions when cleansing your skin.
4. Invest in a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
A non-comedogenic moisturizer will help keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to help seal in moisture while still keeping your skin clear.
5. Use a spot treatment if necessary.
Spot treatments are designed to be applied only to the affected area and can help reduce inflammation and reduce healing time of breakouts. Look for products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which are both common acne-fighting ingredients.
6. Try using a face mask.
Face masks can help reduce oil and dirt buildup, which can lead to acne breakouts. Look for clay or charcoal-based masks that can draw out impurities from the skin while still keeping it hydrated.
7. Cut back on dairy products.
Dairy products contain hormones that have been linked to increased sebum production in the skin, which can cause breakouts. Try cutting back on dairy or substituting it with plant-based alternatives to see if that helps reduce the amount of acne you’re experiencing.
8. Reduce your stress levels.
High levels of stress are often linked to increased inflammation in the body, which can lead to breakouts and other skin problems. Try to incorporate some stress-relieving activities into your daily routine, such as yoga or meditation.
9. Use sunscreen every day.
Sun exposure can increase the amount of blemishes you experience, so it’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day.
10. Get a few satin pillowcases and swap them out regularly.
Satin pillowcases can help reduce friction between your skin and the fabric, which can decrease irritation and inflammation. Change out your pillowcase every few days to keep dirt and oils from building up on it.
These are just a few home remedies for acne that you should consider trying before seeing a dermatologist. Of course, if these solutions aren’t making a difference to those stubborn spots, visit a qualified dermatologist! They can recommend more targeted treatments that are tailored specifically to your skin type, as well as prescribe medication or other therapies if needed.