Pimples on the face are one of the most common cosmetic problems. They occur when pores become clogged due to a buildup of sebum and dead skin cells. Sometimes, getting rid of pimples isn’t easy, as their origin can be due to various causes, so we’ll give you some remedies that might help.
These blemishes appear as small white or yellowish comedones, almost always around the cheeks and T-zone (forehead and nose). Although they can indicate a hormonal imbalance, excess toxins, or sebaceous gland dysfunction, they are not usually a serious problem.
Dermatologists at the Mayo Clinic point out that several factors can worsen acne, such as stress and diet. While there are many cosmetic products on the market formulated to eliminate these issues, we can also turn to effective home remedies that provide similar results without spending as much.
1. Honey from bees
Organic honey contains antibacterial compounds that help cleanse the skin and remove pimples caused by excess bacteria. It is also a moisturizing and revitalizing ingredient that, among other things, helps reduce scarring.
On the other hand, honey has antibacterial properties that help eradicate acne-causing bacteria. In fact, combining it with other products like cinnamon bark enhances its antibacterial effect and increases its effectiveness. This was demonstrated in a study published in the journal Scientia Pharmaceutica.
How to use it?
- First, put some organic honey on your fingertip and rub it directly onto the pimples.
- Let it dry on its own and, after an hour, rinse it with warm water.
- Finally, repeat its use several times a week to achieve good results.
2. Egg white
This ingredient, rich in vitamin A, not only helps protect the skin but also regulates collagen production and delays the skin’s signs of aging.
How to use it?
- Beat an egg white and spread it over your face to form a mask.
- Let it dry for 30 minutes and remove it with cold water.
- Use it at least 3 times a week.
3. Tomato
Tomatoes are rich in polyphenols and essential minerals, making them a vegetable with many benefits for skin health.
Their astringent compounds cleanse impurities trapped in pores and significantly reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
How to use it?
- Crush a ripe tomato and apply it all over your face.
- Leave the mask on for 20 minutes and rinse.
- Repeat the application 3 or 4 times a week.
4. Orange peel
Did you know that orange peel isn’t waste? It’s packed with antioxidants and essential oils that can improve your skin’s appearance. This is due to its astringent properties: it reduces excess oil and promotes deep cleansing of clogged pores.
A study published in the journal Heliyon demonstrated that essential oil extracted from orange peel is effective against Cutibacterium acnes, one of the main bacteria that cause acne. In fact, when comparing the effectiveness of the essential oil with standard treatments, its performance was found to be more than excellent.
How to use it?
- First, grate an orange peel and moisten it with a little water.
- Rub the treatment all over your face and leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Finally, rinse with cold water and repeat use 3 times a week.
Note: Use this remedy only at night. Sun exposure after use may cause dark spots.
5. Cucumber
Cucumber is rich in water and antioxidants, and it’s also a natural toner that combats blemishes and sagging skin. Its refreshing action leaves the skin soft and, at the same time, removes excess oil and impurities.
The benefits of cucumber for the skin are backed by ample scientific evidence. According to the journal Fitoterapia, this vegetable nourishes the skin, has a calming effect, and reduces swelling. In this way, cucumber significantly improves the skin’s appearance.
How to use it?
- Mash the pulp of a peeled cucumber until you get a thick paste.
- Rub the mask all over your face and leave it on for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and repeat the application every day.
6. Aspirin
Aspirin contains a substance known as salicylic acid, which can regulate oil production in the face. This helps reduce the appearance of pimples and blackheads.
Furthermore, a study published in the journal Experimental Dermatology demonstrated that salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties. The product inhibits several cellular pathways in skin cells, resulting in decreased oil production and a reduction in inflammation.
How to use it?
- Crush several aspirins and moisten them with water.
- Rub the product onto the pimples and leave it on for 20 minutes.
- Remove it with plenty of water and repeat its use 2 or 3 times a week.
7. Aloe vera to remove pimples
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera gel can help disinfect the skin and eliminate bacteria that infect pores. Numerous scientific studies confirm aloe’s effectiveness in removing pimples. Its topical application has been shown to reduce the appearance of blackheads and decrease the accumulation of sebum and dead skin cells.
How to use it?
- Extract the fresh gel from an aloe vera leaf and rub it all over your face.
- Leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse.
- Use it every day, preferably before going to bed.
8. Garlic
Although its smell isn’t the most pleasant, garlic contains sulfur compounds that can help prevent pimples and acne breakouts. Thanks to these compounds, it inhibits bacterial growth and promotes cell regeneration. However, caution is advised when using this remedy, as it can cause skin burns.
How to use it?
- Crush a raw garlic clove and rub the paste onto the problem areas of your face.
- Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse with plenty of water.
- Use it 2 or 3 times a week.
9. Green tea
The health benefits of green tea are based on extensive scientific evidence. It is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which offer numerous health benefits.
A recent study demonstrated that the polyphenols in green tea were helpful in reducing sebum production in the skin and treating acne. These beneficial properties were observed both when the compound was ingested and when it was applied topically. However, further research is needed.
How to use it?
- Boil the green tea for 2 or 3 minutes.
- Let the water cool.
- Spread the mixture over your face with a cotton ball or spray it on.
- Let it dry and rinse with plenty of warm water.
10. Tea tree oil
This is an essential oil extracted from an Australian tree called Melaleuca alternifolia. This substance has been widely used in traditional medicine for its antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2017 pilot study demonstrated the effectiveness of this product in treating mild to moderate acne. The number and severity of lesions decreased considerably after 12 weeks. Therefore, the use of tea tree oil is recommended, provided no adverse effects occur.
How to use it?
- Mix 1 part oil in 9 parts water.
- Apply the mixture to the lesions using a swab or cotton ball.
- Use moisturizer after application if desired.
- Repeat this process once or twice a day until you see an improvement.
11. Apple cider vinegar
According to popular belief, apple cider vinegar is one of the available natural remedies for removing pimples from the face. Although there are no scientific studies to support its effectiveness, it is a method used by many people worldwide.
This product is believed to combat acne-causing bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes. Additionally, apple cider vinegar contains lactic acid, which may improve the skin’s appearance.
How to use it?
- Mix one part vinegar and three parts water; you can use more water if your skin is sensitive.
- Apply directly to clean skin with a cotton ball.
- Leave on for a maximum of 30 seconds.
- Rinse with warm water and dry gently, patting lightly.
- Repeat the process a maximum of 2 times per day until you notice some improvement.
12. Witch hazel water
Witch hazel is an extract of the bark and leaves of a North American shrub called Hamamelis virginiana. It contains multiple active ingredients that give it antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
According to a study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics, topical application of witch hazel helps relieve the symptoms of various skin conditions. In this regard, it could be one of the most effective natural remedies for removing pimples from the face. Furthermore, it is relatively non-toxic, so it can be used on children from the age of 11.
How to use it?
- Combine one tablespoon of witch hazel with one cup of water and let it soak for 30 minutes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover it and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Strain the mixture and store it in a sealed container.
- Apply to the skin 1 or 2 times a day, every day until you notice some improvement.
13. Use a natural exfoliant
Exfoliation is a natural process that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, unclogging pores. Therefore, it is believed that regular exfoliation can help fight acne.
Currently, there are many types of exfoliants available at the pharmacy. Some of them contain additional ingredients, such as activated charcoal, that help improve the skin’s appearance.
However, it’s also possible to prepare a natural scrub at home. Just keep in mind that the particles will be larger, so you shouldn’t apply as much pressure to your skin.
How to use it?
- Mix sugar or salt and coconut oil in equal parts.
- Gently rub the clean skin with the mixture for a few minutes.
- Rinse well with plenty of warm water.
- Exfoliate your skin at least once a week to see results.