If you are dealing with a stubborn case of acne, you probably know how inconvenient and costly it can be to go to the dermatologist for regular treatments.
On top of this, with COVID-19 numbers surging, many people wish to avoid going out as much as they can, including doctor’s offices of all types.
Fortunately, you do not have to resign yourself to going to the dermatologist to treat acne. There are a number of effective solutions that you can do from the comfort and safety of home.
For example, consider these five home-based remedies:
1. Wash Your Face Regularly and Gently
When you have acne, you might be inclined to want to scrub away the blemishes. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, this approach is pretty much the opposite of what you should do. Instead, wash your face gently twice a day, using your fingers to cleanse rather than a washcloth. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
2. Dab on Some Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help to fight a variety of bacteria and fungi found on the face, according to Healthline. Its naturally-occurring organic acids like citric acid, succinic acid and lactic acid may help to destroy the P. acnes bacteria, suppress inflammation, and help improve the appearance of acne scars. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts of water—use more water if your skin is very sensitive—and dab it onto your acne. Let it sit for five to 20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
3. Use Dermatologist-Approved Products
Your dermatologist may have already told you not to use regular soap and harsh cleansers on your acne. Rather than head to the office for costly washes and masks, you can definitely purchase a variety of products for acne scars and breakout cleaners online. For instance, Rodan + Fields has multiple treatments formulated to unclog pores and clear blemishes while also nourishing the skin. When shopping online for products to try at home, look for those that are dermatologist-approved and designed to treat acne.
4. Add Zinc to Your Diet
Some studies have found that if you have lower levels of zinc in your body, you may be more prone to developing acne. To see if this may be the case for you, you can add more zinc-rich foods to your diet and/or take a zinc supplement daily. Animal foods are richer sources of zinc than plant-based foods—this includes beef, chicken, pork and oysters. Tofu, nuts, seeds and oatmeal still do have a reasonable amount of zinc, so consider eating them more often and your skin may start to clear up.
5. Mask Up with Cinnamon and Honey
While you are in your pantry getting out the apple cider vinegar, you might also want to grab the honey and cinnamon. These tasty and common cooking ingredients can help to naturally reduce inflammation while fighting off bacteria. If you don’t mind the idea of a somewhat sticky facial mask, mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and make a paste. Wash your face and then apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it off and patting your skin dry.
Clean and Healthy Skin Can Be Yours
While you may still want to check in with your dermatologist from time to time about your acne, it is reassuring to know that there are plenty of home remedies that may help to improve the health of your skin. From dermatologist-approved products and supplements to common pantry ingredients and gentle washing, your acne may very well start to improve without having to make an appointment.