Acne is one of the most common skin disorders in the USA – more than 50 million Americans are being affected by it. Resulting in painful and unsightly outbreaks of the face, chest, back, and arms, it’s no surprise people are so desperate to clear up their skin.
If acne is left untreated, not only can cause scarring, but could possibly lead to psychological or emotional trauma, like embarrassment, depression, low self-confidence, social withdrawal, and isolation.
Modern acne medications come with possible negative side-effects. A drug called Isotretinoin has been linked to increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease, major depression, and suicide.
For anyone that doesn’t want to take the risk, there is another option. We offer you three recipes made with natural ingredients that are not only found to be effective but come without the devastating side-effects.
Gentle Acne Face Wash
You will need:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 20 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 2 capsules of live probiotics
All you need to do is mix all of the ingredients in a bowl and blend them well using a hand blender. When you’re done, place the mixture in a container and keep it in a cool and dark place.
When you’ll want to use it, make sure to moisten your skin with warm water, then massage the mixture into your face and neck. After you’ve finished, rinse well. It can be applied in the morning and in the evening, though it’s not recommended to use it more than twice a day (that way you can irritate your skin and can lead to an overproduction of oil).
Why it’s so effective: Honey, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil are known for their antimicrobial properties. Honey’s natural sticky consistency enables to pull out dirt and grime that can clog the pores. Apple cider vinegar can soften and exfoliate the skin and balance the skin’s pH.
Coconut oil contains vitamin E, this will keep your skin healthy and ensure proper functioning of the sebum glands. Tea tree oil reduces the inflammation that can lead to swelling of the skin. While the probiotics, when applied topically can clear the skin, reduce redness and improve the appearance of fine lines.
Acne Face Mask
This mask can not only prevent breakouts, but it can also help to get rid of acne and eliminate the scars caused by acne.
Besides the well-known positive benefits of honey and apple cider vinegar, for this recipe, you’ll also need sugar and green tea. Sugar will break up scar tissue and unclog the pores.
The green tea inhibits the production of sebum by 50%, acts antibacterial, helps to prevent cell damage and it’s a host of antioxidants and vitamins (A, C, and E) that are important for healthy skin.
You’ll need the following:
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey
- 2 tablespoons of cooled green tea
- 5 tablespoons of white sugar
Put all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix them well. To make a thicker consistency, you can add a little more sugar. When the mask is ready, use a cotton pad or your finger to spread it across your face. Apply it gently, using a circular motion, for several minutes to remove the dead skin cells and boost your circulation. After 10 minutes rinse your face well with cool water.
Acne Face Scrub
The face scrub is necessary for removing the buildup – clogged pores and dead skin cells that contribute to acne. The scrub will provide a more youthful glow to your face and eliminate the dead cells on the surface.
The following ingredients are required to prepare it:
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey
- 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
Being a natural humectant, brown sugar acts as a great moisturizer and lubricator to your skin. It can help remove excess oil from the skin’s pores and dead skin cells, while at the same time having a soothing effect with its lovely smell.
Olive oil is especially helpful for healing damaged skin or preventing acne from occurring in the first place.
Pour the ingredients into a bowl and mix them. Apply the mixture to your face using your fingertips, and massage it in with circular motions. Let it sit on your face for 2 to 3 minutes. Afterward, rinse your face with warm water, and end it with a splash of cold water to help close the pores.