12 Pimple Natural Remedies You Didn't Even Know About

12 Best Natural Remedies for Pimples rnNothing ruins a perfect morning like a big fat zit on your face. Although some skin types are more prone to acne attacks, almost everyone has had one of those mornings. It's tempting to squeeze out a pimple immediately, but this quick fix solution often leads to scarring. Prescription treatments may also prove to be ineffective and expensive in the long run. The good news is, there are some natural remedies for acne that are both accessible and affordable. But first, let's examine the main causes of acne. Causes and Contributing Factors While there is no clear verdict on what causes pimples, there are certain sources and contributing factors which have been widely accepted by medical experts. Some of the basic ones include:rnHormones- Teenagers and women of childbearing age are worst affected by acne caused by fluctuating hormones. If you are prone to acne, a blood test may help to identify any hormonal imbalances. Food allergies- Several studies have shown that allergens such as dairy, gluten, eggs and yeast can cause skin breakouts. Allergy tests help you eliminate the allergen. Diet- A study published by the NCBI found a positive correlation between consumption of certain foods and acne. Stress- High-stress levels also cause your skin to breakout. Adopting a balanced lifestyle is, therefore, the key to achieving healthy, flawless skin. Fighting Acne Naturally So what are some of the home remedies to help clear acne? • Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) - This potent kitchen ingredient has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that will balance out your skin's pH and stop breakouts in their track. All you need to do is dilute it with equal parts water and apply on the pimples directly. It can also be consumed internally for long-term skin health. • Baking soda scrub - Baking soda's alkalinity makes it perfect for making a facial scrub that leaves skin brighter and smoother. Mix water with one tablespoon of baking soda to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to your face and scrub gently then rinse with cool water. • Coconut oil - This tropical oil has lauric and caprylic acids that will help clear acne-causing germs. It acts as a moisturiser and does not clog your pores. It also soothes the itching caused by blackheads. • Milk of magnesia- Who knew your favourite antacid could help clear acne? Just dab a small amount on the pimples at bedtime. It reduces your skin's sebum production and unclogs blocked pores. • Toothpaste- Applying toothpaste directly on a pimple before bedtime drains it and reduces the swelling by morning. It helps a pimple clear without leaving an unsightly blackhead. • Aloe Vera Gel- If you have an aloe plant, the aloe gel has a soothing effect on itchy pimples while reducing redness. It also acts as an astringent. Apply the gel with your fingers several times a day to clear pimples. • Cinnamon-This pungent spice has antibacterial properties and can be used as a facial scrub for smooth, glowing skin. Mix cinnamon with water to form a paste and scrub the face before rinsing off. • Oatmeal- Your favourite breakfast could help cleanse and exfoliate your skin when used as a face mask. It also clears clogged pores and absorbs excess oil leaving a clear, smoother complexion. Allow the mask to sit for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. • Lemon juice The juice of a freshly squeezed lemon can be applied on the face to clear blemishes, reduce wrinkles and even skin tone. With its strong antibacterial properties, lemon juice applied for 15 minutes twice a week can clear even the most stubborn of blackheads. • Turmeric and honey mask- Honey is a great moisturiser that prevents dry, flaky skin. Turmeric reduces oil production and brightens dull skin. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric with two tablespoons of honey. Apply and rinse after fifteen minutes. • Green Tea- This contains antioxidants and vitamins that nourish skin and reduce inflammation in acne breakouts. Soak two green tea bags in a cup of hot water and cool. Dab the tea on the face and allow to dry for 10 minutes. Rinse and moisturise skin. Repeat application daily until you obtain clear skin. • Yoghurt- Natural yoghurt is slightly acidic and acts as an exfoliant. Apply as a face mask for 15 minutes, and rinse with warm water. It clarifies your skin tone and nourishes it with good oil, leaving your skin blemish free. For best results, experiment with the different natural remedies to find out which one works best for your skin type. Prevention is Better than Cure Perhaps the best remedy for acne is prevention. For flawless, blemish-free skin: • Eliminate or avoid foods you are allergic to • Eat a healthy balanced diet with more healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods, fat and sugar. • Drink lots of water • Avoid stress