You don’t need to resort to drastic measures to ease common skin problems like acne, itching, and bug bites. Everything you need to treat the problem may already be sitting around the house!
To soothe itchy rashes caused by poison ivy, allergies, heat and sweat, perfumes, or other triggers:
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine (like Benadryl).
- Spritz mineral water onto the affected area to ease inflammation — both the coolness and the trace minerals can help relieve the swelling and pain.
- Try ice water to numb the itch or pain.
- Apply olive oil directly to eczema or psoriasis flare-ups to keep the skin from drying out.
- Apply aspirin paste to itchy bug bites or pimples. Just crush a low-dose aspirin and mix it with an ounce of water. Apply directly to the affected area to help reduce redness and swelling.
Dealing with a minor burn? Try these quick remedies for relief:
- If you have an aloe plant in the house, slice open a leaf and apply the juices directly to the burned area.
- Try a cold tea compress — black tea or green tea will do. Soak a washcloth or towel in cold tea and apply it to the affected area.
- Take a lukewarm bath — but not a shower. The shower may sting too much.
- Don’t bother with the butter — that’s one old folk remedy that just doesn’t help. Plain old cool water is far more useful.
Want to break down a sudden break-out? Fight acne at home:
- Gently scrub your face with coarse salt — emphasis on GENTLY. Salt is an antiseptic that will help clear away dirt and other impurities.
- Apply a mask of plain yogurt. The lactic acid will help clear acne and leave your skin glowing.
- A dab of toothpaste can help shrink a pimple overnight.