Maybe it’s the change in the weather — the dry heat of winter making my skin extra oily? Maybe my skin is irritated from too much washing and not enough moisturizing. For whatever reason, I’ve been breaking out left and right lately… so it’s time for four all natural acne busters!
Acne Buster Number One: Sugar
Sugar is a mild antibacterial agent. Because the bacteria in pores is what triggers breakouts, sugar can fight off future zits. Mix sugar with a little bit of water to make a paste. Use the paste to exfoliate your face — don’t scrub too hard! You don’t need to strip the skin away, just clean it. Rinse your face with plenty of fresh lukewarm water.
Acne Buster Number Two: Oats
Oats are a natural astringent. They can draw oil out of the skin to help clear out those pores. Oats also work as a gentle exfoliant and can rub away dead skin cells. Use whole grain, unflavored oats and prepare them according to the package instructions. Let a half cup of cooked oats cool — no sense burning the delicate skin of your face! Once they’re cooled off, mix the oats with water to make a thin paste. Apply the paste to your face and let it dry for fifteen minutes or so. Rinse your face with plenty of fresh, lukewarm water.
Acne Buster Number Three: Aloe
Aloe won’t prevent acne, but it can help your skin heal and minimize scarring after a breakout. Check your drugstore for aloe vera gel or break a leaf off that aloe plant. Rub the gel into your skin; no need to rinse. However, it is possible to be allergic to aloe! Test a small area of skin that isn’t visible — like the inside of your elbow — before using aloe on your face.
Acne Buster Number Three: Lavender, Mint, and Vinegar
This one takes a little more work, but it can be worth it! Boil a cup and a half of cider vinegar, then pour it over four stems of fresh mint and eight stems of fresh lavender. Cover and steep overnight, then strain. For every three tablespoons of liquid, add six tablespoons of distilled water to dilute. Bottle and shake before using; apply it to your face with a cotton ball to relieve the inflammation and redness of acne.
More skin care tips from Families.com!