Top 10 Home Remedies for Acne

Our skin is a reflection of our internal health. Glowing, beautiful skin shows proper care, hydration and a healthy acne diet. Skin ridden with whiteheads, blackheads and other pimples indicates oxidative damage, poor nutrition and hormonal imbalances.
Occasional breakouts and chronic acne plagues tens of millions of Americans of all ages every year. From mild to severe, cases of acne cause painful and unsightly outbreaks on the face, back, chest and even arms. Left untreated, acne can lead to diminished self-esteem and scarring.
Unfortunately, many people choose potentially dangerous prescription drugs and topical medications over natural home remedies for acne. But getting rid of acne naturally is possible, as is minimizing acne scars.
In addition to essential oils, proper gentle cleansing and proper nutrition, we’ll examine the best home remedies for acne, including how to get rid of unsightly pimples and scars.
The main causes of acne include clogged pores, bacteria, excess oil production and dead skin cells. Research also indicates hormones, diet, stress and certain medications — including corticosteroids, androgens, birth control pills and lithium — can worsen acne. (1)
An ongoing review published in the Archives of Dermatological Research is examining whether sleep deprivation, stress and other aspects of modern life are linked to adult female acne. (2) Once believed to strike most often during teen years, acne is now affecting millions of adult women, who never had a problem with acne before.
While acne is typically linked in adult women due to hormonal shifts and imbalances that occur during the menstrual cycle, or when transitioning into menopause, it’s important to consider elevated stress levels, a lack of sleep and a poor diet as the root causes.
An estimated 70–90 percent of young adults, of both genders, suffer from acne, too. Genetics, changing hormone levels and stress are all contributing factors. However, friction from sports equipment and backpacks can further irritate skin, leading to acne breakouts on the chin, forehead, jawline and back.
The harsh chemicals in over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause further irritation, and may not be safe for continued use. Safe home remedies for blackheads and whiteheads are available. Meanwhile, here are my favorite natural home remedies for getting rid of pimples.
Everyone’s skin is different, so keep in mind that effectively treating acne breakouts at home requires a multi-disciplinary approach to care and a healthy diet. The home remedies for acne below can be used in combination, but it’s important to avoid the biggest mistakes in treating acne.