When sebaceous glands (oil glands) under the skin get blocked and infected, tender red lesions or bumps with pus show up on the skin. These small lumps are called pimples.
Pimples are a part of acne that generally commences at the age of puberty or any time of the year. The sebaceous glands commonly present in the face, back, chest, and shoulders areas of the skin, become overactive during puberty. Generally, to remove such a condition people consume a lot of medicines, practice home remedies for pimples, make a change in their lifestyle, and more.
Difference between Acne & Pimples
Acne is a disease (a skin condition) that affects the hair follicles and oil glands. That is, excess sebum (oily substance) secreted by the oil glands clumps together with the dead skin cells to plug the follicle.
However, Pimples are one of its symptoms that show up when bacteria develop in the plug causing inflammation, leading to tender, red pustules or papules on the skin.
Pimples are a common problem, yet they can be very irritating at times. Keep reading to learn some of the fastest natural ways and home remedies to eliminate the condition of pimples.
Natural Home Remedies for Pimples
Firstly no one should pick at, squeeze, or “pop” a pimple as it will only cause the spread. These actions result in the spreading of the bacteria responsible for acne and risking infection.
Instead, try these alternatives or natural home remedies for pimple problems.
1. Aloe Vera
The clear gel inside of aloe vera leaves work as an excellent moisturizer and soothe burned or irritated skin. It’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a benefitting home remedy for pimples. Kill the harmful bacterias and boost the blood flow in the skin by practicing different mixtures formed with Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe vera, honey, and cinnamon face mask
Aloe vera and lemon juice face mask
Aloe vera antibacterial spray
Aloe vera, sugar, and coconut oil scrub
Aloe vera and tea tree oil cleanser
Aloe vera creams
Note – Ingesting high levels of aloe vera can be risky.
2. Honey
Honey is good for pimple care as it contains antioxidants that help in clearing the clogged pores. Apply the honey after wetting your face or use it as a mask. It works as a cleanser to help prevent breakouts, remove dirt and debris, and draws moisture into the skin.
3. Garlic
Garlic comprises of organosulfur compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They strengthen the immune system and help fight infections. Add it to the diet or consume raw garlic cloves. Though, some people don’t appreciate its smell and flavor.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is one of the common natural ingredients that help combat acne and pimple problems. The ingredient is best known for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, Tea Tree Oil has the efficiency to reduce the redness and swelling of pimples. It also helps to kill P. acnes (a bacteria that causes acne). Make sure to dilute the oil in a carrier oil (coconut or olive or any other that suits the skin) before application as any oil product has the potential to worsen pimple problems. This is why we recommend you to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying. The oil is also available in the form of cream or gel.
5. Jojoba Oil
This natural, waxy oil is wonderful at repairing the damaged skin as well as reduces skin inflammation. The vitamins, minerals, and additional properties present in the oil help overcome the swelling and redness of pimples. When mixed with a cream, gel or clay mask and applied over the lesions, it works well. Jojoba Oil also works well as a moisturizer when mixed with aloe vera gel.
6. Echinacea
Echinacea purpurea is a herbal extract comprised of compounds that can efficiently destroy bacterias and viruses. It helps fight infections and act as a booster for the immune system. The echinacea products come in many forms, such as creams, tablets, juice, and tea.
7. Green Tea
Green Tea is a herbal remedy rich in antioxidants that help in breaking down chemicals and waste products, improve the lesions, redness, and irritated skin caused by pimples. Moreover, the green tea extract clears any form of debris or waste that build up in open acne sores.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil carries antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can easily kill disease-causing microorganisms and speeds the recovery of acne sores. Applying coconut oil to the skin or rubbing gently over the pimple-affected areas can prevent skin from scarring and relieve dry skin while fighting bacteria.
9. Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that helps neutralize acidic substances in the body. Applying Baking soda on the skin is not widely recommended. Though, it is one of the common natural remedies for reducing acne breakouts and preventing scar. Once applied, use a hydrating moisturizer immediately afterward to help prevent dry skin and further irritation.
Do not use it every day or apply in minimal amounts as it can irritate the skin or remove important protective oils.
10. Cucumber
Cucumber, a common natural ingredient easily available at home works well for irritated and acne-prone skin. The element comprises inflammation-fighting vitamin C and caffeic acid that makes your skin feel refreshed, cleanses the skin and rejuvenate your complexion. Treat Acne or pimple problems right in your own home with Cucumber Face Mask.
11. Lemon Juice
To heal acne scars naturally lemon juice is best used as a treatment option. Lemons carry a high level of antioxidants and antibacterial properties that make it an amazing alternative treatment. Though, it is also highly acidic which is why we recommend asking your dermatologist first before using lemons to treat acne scars at home.
12. Ice
The idea of using ice as a home remedy for pimple treatment is quite effective as it helps reduce swelling in inflammatory forms of acne. Further, it also reduces the redness.
13. Apple Cider Vinegar
Cure pimple with apple cider vinegar as it has properties to suppress inflammation and kill different types of bacteria and viruses. Though it is strongly acidic by nature, we recommend consulting your doctor before applying.
Some Additional Tips
Stay hydrated- Dry skin tends to get damaged easily. Thus staying hydrated keeps you safe from any such risk. Besides, it ensures the formation of new cells to replace the dead ones.
Never touch pimples- Messing up with pimples by touching, squeezing or popping them up might worsen the condition as it may add to more infection.
Cleanser choice- Cleansers should be mild & match the skin type. Thus these would vary from person to person.
Reduce stress- Stress has a unique connection with acne as it causes the levels of androgen(a hormone that stimulates hair follicles & oil glands) to increase. Enough sleep, a balanced diet as well as regular exercise help overcoming stress.
Preventions
Mentioned below are some preventive measures that one should take care of for pimples:
- Cleansing the skin twice daily with a gentle cleanser and warm, but not hot water.
- Wiping the skin with a cleansing wipe or flannel immediately after exercising to reduce sweat and oil buildup.
- Using oil-free sunscreens when in the sun.
- Avoiding oils and fragrances on acne-prone areas of the body.
- Changing the sheets and pillowcases at least twice a week to reduce a buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil that may cause acne breakouts.