What Are the Different Alternative Treatments for Acne?

Traditional acne treatments can often cause a number of side effects, such as skin irritation. Tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey can all safely be used as alternative treatments for acne. Acne can also sometimes be controlled with dietary changes. Individuals should also avoid squeezing or picking at pimples, since this can worsen the problem.

The active ingredients in many acne medications are often harsh chemicals. Many of these medications can cause dry skin, redness, swelling, and peeling. Some acne medications have even been linked to serious side effects, such as liver damage. Alternative treatments for acne are typically less irritating and much safer.

Tea tree oil is one of the most effective alternative treatments for acne. It is an exfoliant, which can help remove the dead skin that clogs pores, as well as an antibacterial agent, which can kill bacteria that causes pimples. Vegetable oils, like coconut oil and olive oil, should be used to dilute tea tree oil, since it is very strong. This oil mixture can be applied to the affected area and rinsed off.

Apple cider vinegar is another one of the more popular alternative treatments for acne. It has mild antibacterial properties, so it can help kill the harmful micro-organisms that cause acne. Since it is also an astringent, it will also close the pores, preventing them from getting clogged with dirt, oil, and bacteria. To use apple cider vinegar for acne, it can be used to wash or rinse the face.

Honey can be used as an effective acne treatment as well. Like other alternative treatments for acne, honey is a mild antibiotic. It is also an excellent moisturizer for dry skin. To use honey for acne, it should be massaged onto the face and wiped off with a damp washcloth after several minutes.

A person's diet might also be a cause of acne breakouts. Fatty foods, sugary foods, and dairy products, for example, can cause a person to produce more oil, which can cause breakouts. On the other hand, a healthy diet with whole grains, vegetables, and fruits can help promote healthy skin.

Acne sufferers should also fight the urge to squeeze or pick at pimples. This can cause the bacteria and oil that causes these blemishes to spread. Rupturing pimples can also lead to infection and scarring. In severe cases, bacteria can become trapped far below the surface of the skin, and this can cause a painful cyst.