Some days our skin simply won’t cooperate and we have no time to deal with it. All we want when this happens is a quick solution that can get us on our way and doesn’t require an extra trip to the store to clear skin. For those days, it’s time to turn to a home remedy. You know, those solutions that are passed down from generation to generation and can usually be made with a few ingredients from your pantry.
Below we list three of the most tried and true home remedies for getting clear skin in a pinch.
List for getting clear skin in a pinch
Apple Cider Vinegar
The benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV) are being touted everywhere these days, and for good reason. This ingredient is anti-bacterial and antiseptic, which means it kills bacteria that can clog our pores and cause breakouts. It is made from apples that undergo a double fermentation process. This process makes ACV rich in many vitamins and minerals as well as an acid called malic acid. Malic acid has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, adding to ACV’s ability to fight acne and ward off pimples. ACV also helps balance the pH (acidity level) of our skin. Since our skin is naturally acidic, many basic soaps and cleansers can disrupt its balance, which, can in turn, inadvertently cause more oil production and breakouts to occur. The slightly acidic nature of ACV helps restore balance to our skin.
How to use:
It’s always advised to dilute ACV before applying to your skin because it can be quite strong. Mix one-part ACV and one-part water to make an easy and effective skin toner. Use like your normal toner, avoiding the areas around the eyes, or leave on and rinse off after a few minutes if your skin is more sensitive. As ACV can be too intense for many people at first, be sure to do a spot test before using. Dilute the ACV with more water if you experience a mild reaction. You can always up the strength over time as your skin adjusts.
Honey
Honey has been used for centuries as a way to heal and soothe the skin. Its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties make it ideal for cleansing the skin and getting rid of pimples. Honey also makes a great cleanser because it naturally helps our skin retain moisture, keeping it soft and reducing wrinkles.
How to use:
Buy any type of raw honey (although many people say Manuka honey offers superior antibacterial and healing properties) and use it as you would your normal face cleanser. You can also use it as a spot treatment, dabbing it on to your pimples and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is made from the Australian paperbark tree (Latin name: melaleuca alternifolia). This tree has been used for centuries by Australian aborigines for a range of healing purposes and its benefits have recently caught on all over the world. It has natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties and it can be used to treat a wide variety of skin ailments. Because of its ability to kill bacteria, it is especially helpful for treating acne and breakouts.
How to apply:
Before using tea tree oil, dab a few drops on a cotton swab, wipe it on your inner arm and wait a few minutes to see if your skin reacts. If nothing happens, it is safe to use undiluted on your skin. If you experience a mild reaction, you’ll want to dilute it by 50 percent with water. Once you know your tolerance, use it like an acne treatment. Wash your face as usual and use a cotton pad to apply the oil directly to your breakout, no need to rinse it off.
Do this in the morning and evening. You can also use it as a toner by adding four drops of tea tree oil to one cup of water and applying it once a day. Other recipes advise for every 25 ml of water to add 10 drops of tea tree oil. Find a strength that works for you. You can add other essential oils as well for fragrance and additional benefits.
