Natural Treatments for Acne

Many people suffer from acne and blemishes, and don't like the harsh side effects of acne products that dry out and irritate the skin. Many products contain alcohol to battle the oils and bacteria that block pores, but they leave the skin dry, rashy, and flaky which can produce even more oils and create more of a pore problem. Try these at-home acne treatments if store-bought acne products just aren't cutting it for you.

The key to healthy skin is exfoliating and hydrating the skin to clear out acne-inducing bacteria and oils and replenish the skin with healthy new cells to prevent breakouts and have clearer, radiant skin. A great natural exfoliant for skin is salt, as it sloughs off dead skin cells and kills bacteria at the same time. It's a simple procedure- take a handful of salt, add a few drops of water to create a "paste", and rub on in small, light-pressured circular motions on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin to remove old skin cells. Be careful not to rub to hard as this will irritate the skin with the abrasion. Avoid the eyes and wash away immediately if stinging occurs (a slight to noticeable tingling is normal). Rinse with warm water and pat skin dry.

Witch hazel (found in many grocery stores next to the hydrogen peroxide) is a great oil and pore reducer. It's a less abrasive astringent and can be applied with a cotton ball after washing the face to help control oil and bacteria. It's also quite cheap, less than $2.00 for a bottle.

Aloe Vera is a great nutrient for skin. Not only does it help ease irritated skin, it also helps make acne scars and blemishes disappear and helps even out skin tone. It is also very moisturizing to skin. To increase acne fighting qualities all day long, apply a drop of tea tree oil (which helps battle acne breakouts) to Aloe before applying to your skin for all-day comfort.

For blackheads use a face wash of milk and lime. Boil a cup of milk with juice from 1/2 lime, allow to cool and use the wash on your face. It can be stored in the fridge as long as it stays fresh. The acids in the lime work to exfoliate the skin and wash out the pores, and the milk acts as a nutrient boosting moisturizer to help the skin rejuvenate. A raw potato is also great for acne, especially whiteheads. Cut a raw potato in half and rub it on your face. The Vitamin C makes your skin glow, and the alkaline found naturally in potatoes kills the nasty bacteria in your skin and pores that causes breakouts and pimples.

Almond and coconut oils work as great natural moisturizers. Since they are full of nutrients (like Vitamin E) they help to boost the skin's moisture content and ease dryness while helping the pores to produce new, healthy cells. Rub either of these oils on your face after washing and after applying an astringent (if applicable), rub it into the skin in small, circular motion to absorb into the skin and get the oxygen and blood pumping in the skin, and leave on for 5 minutes to fully sink into the skin. Pat away or gently rinse off excess oils for comfort. You can apply Aloe Vera afterward if you'd like for added moisturization.

As always, wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin from the sun. They do have sensitive skin options out there and versions made specifically for the face to prevent blocking pores. Also always consume plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out so the skin can produce less oils and so it can create new skin cells on a daily basis.

With great natural remedies from home, you can enjoy happy, healthy clear skin without the cost and harsh side effects of store-bought acne medications!