Home Remedies for Zits

Having a bad case of acne, or even noticing a few new zits can be a nightmare, and unfortunately, not all store-bought acne medications work to get rid of problem zits. It's disappointing to spend hard-earned money on remedies for zits just to find out they don't really work. Some remedies to get rid of acne work for some but not for others, and finding the right remedies for your particular case of zits is the key to keeping the problem under control.

Home remedies have proved to be very effective for some, and they are a better alternative to harsh chemicals and expensive store-bought remedies for zits. Try the following home remedies to get rid of your zits. Home remedies are considerably cheaper than store-bought acne remedies, and for some, home remedies to get rid of zits work just as well.

Precautionary Statement

As with all home remedies as well as store-bought or prescriptions remedies, discontinue use if an adverse reaction occurs. For a severe case of acne, consult your physician or dermatologist for professional advice, care, and treatment.

Acne Prevention Mask

This is one of the best home remedies for the prevention of zits, and it works best after a steamy shower. A hot shower opens the pores of the skin, when the pores are open, home remedies such as this can better penetrate the skin and get to the root of the problem. The basil in this acne prevention mask is an effective ingredient in home remedies, and the goldenseal contains valuable antibacterial agents that are also beneficial.

To make this acne prevention mask combine 1-½ cups of water, 1-½ teaspoons of powdered goldenseal root, and 1-½ teaspoons of ground basil leaves. You can find goldenseal root in most major health food stores, or you can locate it online to obtain the lowest possible price. Ground basil leaves can be found in most grocery stores in the spice section. You'll also need a soft washcloth, and a pan.

Begin by boiling the water in the pan, and after it begins boiling, turn off the heat and add the goldenseal and the basil. Cover the pan, and allow the mixture to steep for approximately 20 minutes. Remove the lid, and let the water cool to a comfortable temperature.

Soak the washcloth in very warm water, ring it out, and place it on your face to open your pores before applying the mask. Next, soak the washcloth in the warm herbal mixture, ring it out, and apply it to your face. Repeat this process several times, and finish by rinsing your face with cool water before patting it dry.

Magnesium Hydroxide for Existing Zits

Products containing magnesium hydroxide, which is most often used to treat upset stomach and constipation, is said to help get rid of zits when applied topically. Milk of Magnesia is one of the best home remedies, and it has been used for decades to get rid of zits, but any comparable product will work just as well.

After applying the abovementioned acne prevention mask before bed, rinse with warm water to keep the pores open, and pat your face dry. Shake the bottle of liquid containing magnesium hydroxide, and use a cotton swab to apply it directly to problem zits. Allow the liquid to dry on your face, and leave it on overnight. Rinse it off in the morning, and cleanse your face as usual. Repeat this process every night or as often as necessary to get rid of existing zits, and use the acne prevention mask to keep them from coming back.