Just because you survived adolescence doesn’t mean you’re in the clear for acne. In fact a 2012 study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that acne affects nearly half of all women ages 21- 30, a quarter of women ages 31-40, and twelve percent of women ages 41- 50. For many, hormone shifts, our monthly visitor, or menopause can be break out triggers, but dietary imbalances and stress also cause flare-ups. “Even a moderate amount of daily stress—like balancing a career and a social life, or coming home from work and having to cook dinner for your family—is enough to trigger a breakout,” said Ava Shamban, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at UCLA and author of Heal Your Skin, in a Women’s Health interview.
Over the counter acne medicines, which are full of chemicals, may be causing your skin more irritation as well as being irritatingly expensive for their small dose sizes. If you rummage through your bathroom and kitchen, you may have some easy, at-home treatments that will naturally combat that little red sucker off your face. If you have a serious case of acne, you will most likely need a more defensive and preventative method. Much depends on skin type, age, lifestyle, diet, and hygiene. In the meantime, here are 6 natural pimple remedies to dry up and heal those zits. It should also be noted that these remedies aren’t a cure, but a fast and non-chemical treatment.
1. Aloe Vera
If you want to get rid of pimples, we all know that this plant is well known for its ability to heal, soothe and rejuvenate the skin, but fight pimples? Yes. It acts as an antibacterial, a natural astringent , as well as an anti-inflammatory agent. Best thing is that is also stimulates cell growth so that damaged skin heals quicker.
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2. Arnica
The worst thing about a pimple is that red swollen mound on your face. The anti-inflammatory elements in arnica are terrific for treating bruising, swelling and redness. Available in a heavy cream for dry skin or try the gel version to prevent clogged pores.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not just for baking buns anymore; its extracts can be applied on the skin to treat acne due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Look for it as a powdered herb or as cinnamon oil for your skin.
4. Coconut Oil
You would think a greasy oil is the last thing your pimples need! But this oil’s powerful antimicrobial agents replace the acid layer on the skin that fights off acne, reduces infection, and reduces inflammation. Rich in vitamin E and K, it also keeps skin healthy.
5. Lemon Juice
If you want to get rid of pimples, just dab a little lemon juice on them and adios. The astringent properties in lemon juice will suck out some of the oil and shrink the blemish. Wash off before going in the sun; lemon juice could bleach your face and make it more sensitive.
6. Tea Tree Oil
This magic oil, one of the most amazing pimple remedies, has antibacterial properties that work on blemishes due to its disinfecting and soothing elements. It’s really effective at disinfecting your pores and drying out both whiteheads and blackheads.
