When it comes to ridding our skin of painful and persistent acne breakouts, we’re often willing to try just about anything. Fortunately, for as many artificially produced and synthetic materials there are in our skincare, there are even more natural alternatives that really work. These substances are often found mixed into other products lining the shelves, making them difficult for shoppers to find. So, if you’re in need of products that can help get rid of your acne, make sure you look for these natural acne remedies in your local stores.
As a product that’s more often sold separately from the skincare aisle, many don’t think about the effect that acidic apple cider vinegar can have on the skin. Made by fermenting raw apple cider, this liquid has an increased buildup of natural acid that breaks down impurities from a surface. As such, it makes a great substitute for a chemical exfoliant. Though this substance doesn’t directly treat acne, it works well as a salve to kill harmful bacteria on the skin. This can assist in unclogging pores and reducing the frequency of breakouts.
Salicylic acid might not sound like a naturally occurring skincare ingredient, but—believe it or not—it’s extracted directly from untreated willow bark. It’s one of the top substances used for treating advanced cystic breakouts and comes with several benefits upon use. From dissolving debris deep within your pores to absorbing excess oil, this material is highly effective at removing the particles that cause acne in the first place. However, it’s important to mention that salicylic acid should never be applied directly to the skin in its raw form. In fact, its effect on the skin is so strong that most products only use it in two percent concentrations.
Green tea is another natural acne remedy that’s commonly added to various skincare products. The extract of this plant is full of antioxidants that help fight inflammation and redness, effectively reducing the pain associated with particularly bad breakouts. This substance can also provide your skin cells with an extra layer of protection from harmful free radicals. With fewer cells being damaged and dying off, the frequency that your pores clog up also decreases.