Natural at home Acne Remedy

By: Riddhi

If you are on a budget and need a new face mask, toner or cleanser, you will actually be surprised to how many ingredients you have lying around your house that will benefit your skin and can be made into a skincare product. It is important to keep your acne remedy fresh in the fridge if you are using it over time, but for the best and most hygienic results make it products fresh every day. There are millions of recipes online that can help you create your DIY homemade face mask. Here are some common ingredients used in these recipes and their benefits (side note – like all skincare products you buy, you must patch test before putting anything directly onto your face):

Apple cider vinegar

Can be used in toners and face masks. When using apple cider vinegar it is important to note that you mix it in with water in a 1:1 ratio so it is diluted and avoids harming sensitive skin. It keeps your skin feeling fresh and supple as it contains alpha hydroxy acids which help to exfoliate your skin, revealing fresh, vibrant, new skin. Malic acid forms when apple cider vinegar is made which acts as an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal – this helps to minimize blemishes as it is capable of keeping spot causing bacteria at bay. It also helps to balance your skin's pH and so prevents it from becoming too oily or too dry.

Honey

Can be used in a face mask. Honey is a natural antibacterial which makes it good for preventing acne. It is also full of antioxidants which are great for slowing down aging by diminishing the look of wrinkles. It is one of the most soothing and nourishing natural ingredients to exist and so can boost the complexion, creating a glow. Honey can also be clarifying as it opens up pores which make them easier to unclog. Make sure you splash cold water after decongesting your skin to close your pores again.

Aloe vera

Can be used as a moisturizer or as part of a face mask. One of the most common uses of aloe vera is to soothe sunburn – this is due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties and the fact that it forms a protective barrier over the skin which helps to retain moisture. Being rich in antioxidants and minerals, aloe vera also promotes speedy healing of the skin. Research hs shown it is an effective natural substance that helps skin hydration – softening the skin without clogging pores -making it useful for dry skins. Aloe vera has gentle cleansing and antimicrobial properties which are useful to treat pimples with and, as an astringent, it helps to reduce pore size which keeps dirt, excess sebum and microbes out. It can also lighten scars and blemishes due to its abilities to speed up cell reproduction.

Lemon

Can be used in a face mask. One of the more popular acne remedy. It is important to note that lemon should not be used directly on the face, time spent in the sun should be limited to use and SPF should always be worn when exposed to sunlight. Lemon reduces the number of oil secretions and spot causing bacteria and so can fight spots effectively. It is also good for reducing hyperpigmentation with the help of its two integral components: Vitamin C and citric acid. Lemon juice can be drying and therefore can be used occasionally to remove excess oils on the skin.

Sometimes using natural ingredients is better than using commercial products. Commercial products can contain fragrance, dyes or other chemicals which end up doing more harm than good by drying out your skin making it look rough and dull. There are numerous natural elements that can benefit your skin without being too harsh and it is worth giving them a go!