Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting about 50 million Americans. It can be caused by a wide range of factors—including bacteria, hormone changes, and nutrition—which is why there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment that works for everyone.
Using at-home remedies to control acne comes with many benefits. For instance, many at-home remedies are affordable and low-cost, and don’t produce side effects like those associated with oral and injectable medications.
If you have acne and have tried numerous over-the-counter products and prescription medications without success, try one or more of the following easy at-home remedies that may help.
1. Orange Peels
Oranges are loaded with vitamin C, which is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. The antioxidants in vitamin C can help combat free radicals and bacteria that are contributing to acne and leave you with a fresh-looking glow.
Vitamin C is an ingredient commonly added to many skincare products, but you can use it in your own at-home treatments for acne. Place an orange peel and a small amount of water into a mortar and pestle, and grind it until you create a pulpy, paste-like mixture. Then, apply the paste directly to your acne and wash it off after it dries completely.
2. Ginger
Fresh ginger has compounds called gingerols, shogaols, and paradols—all of which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. Ginger also helps promote digestion, which is good for acne because it helps flush waste from the body that may be contributing to dull or oily skin.
Extract juice from a fresh piece of ginger root using a tool such as a garlic press or juicer and apply it directly to your acne. Or, start preparing foods that use fresh ginger as an ingredient.
3. Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that produce countless health benefits. They may best be known for reducing your risk for heart disease, but they can also hydrate your skin and regulate its oil production to combat acne.
Start eating a higher amount of foods that contain omega-3s.
Great sources of omega-3s are:
- Fatty fish, including tuna, mackerel, salmon, halibut, anchovies, and sardines
- Walnuts
- Avocados
- Flaxseed
- Chia seeds
4. Zinc
The anti-inflammatory properties in zinc make this mineral an ideal acne treatment. Start adding more foods with zinc into your diet, or talk to your doctor about the benefits of taking zinc supplements.
Foods that are high in zinc include:
- Shellfish
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Eggs
- Seeds
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Dark chocolate
5. Water
Water flushes waste and toxins out of your body to keep your skin clear, bright, and young-looking. It can also prevent skin dryness and excess oil production.
Start drinking more water and cut back on sodas, fruit juices, and energy drinks—all of which are high in sugar and can contribute to acne.
6. Stress Relief
While it is completely normal to experience stress from time to time, it is not normal to suffer from chronic stress that never goes away. Chronic stress increases your body’s levels of the stress hormone cortisol. High levels of cortisol can cause your skin to produce more oil, which increases your risk for acne.
If you suffer from chronic stress, find new ways to relieve it. Take up new relaxing hobbies such as exercising, walking your pet, reading a book, or listening to soothing music. Practicing deep breathing and mindfulness meditation may also help. Over time, as you achieve lower stress levels, you may notice that your acne also goes away.
7. Yoga
Yoga combines exercise with deep breathing and meditation—all of which are great at relieving stress and at naturally reducing acne. The movements and behaviors you practice in yoga can increase your circulation to deliver a higher amount of oxygen and nutrients to your skin. As a result, you can maintain clear, healthy-looking skin and experience fewer breakouts.
8. Mild Soap and Water
Washing your skin twice a day can help remove bacteria and other debris that are clogging pores and contributing to acne. Use mild soaps and cleansers that lack harsh ingredients like alcohol that can dry your skin and boost its oil production. Try to avoid washing your face more than twice a day, as washing it too often can also lead to dryness.
If you still need help controlling your acne even after trying the above at-home remedies, consider talking to a skincare specialist or dermatologist who can help you find new solutions. Getting to the root cause of your acne can help you and your provider find the right treatment that can reduce the severity of this skin condition.
Resource Links
- “Skin conditions by the numbers” via American Academy of Dermatology Association
- “Ginger For What Ails You” via The Well by Northwell
- “Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review” via Dermatology Research and Practice