Pimples are the early beginnings of one of the world’s most common skin conditions: acne. They come in all shapes and sizes-pus-filled, flesh-colored, red, painful, big and small-and can pop up anywhere on the body. While you can access specialized dermatologists to help you get rid of pimples, most of these medications can further damage your skin with various other side effects; which makes going the natural route easy and favorable:
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1- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
The succinic and lactic acids present in ACV have been known to reduce bacteria caused inflammation and improve the appearance of acne scars. However, like all vinegar, ACV should be diluted before use, at it may cause burns and irritation. Using a cotton ball, apply a mixture of 1-part vinegar and 3-4 parts water-depending on skin sensitivity-over the affected areas, rinse and pat dry after 5-20 seconds and repeat once or twice a day.
2- Honey and Cinnamon:
For facial acne, make a paste with 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Apply over your face in mask form and rinse after 10-15 minutes. Repeat the process daily to take advantage of the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of these ingredients.
3- Green Tea:
Antioxidants found in green tea, namely flavonoids, tannins and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) eliminate the 2 main causes of acne i.e. inflammation and bacteria. Simply boil green tea in water for 3-4 minutes, allow for it to cool and apply either directly via a cotton ball or spritz using a spray bottle. Let it dry, then wash thoroughly with water. The boiled green tea leaves can also be mixed with honey and used as a face-mask for maximum effect.
4- Ice Cubes:
Wrap an ice-cube in a dry cloth and rub it over red acne spots and blemishes to reduce inflammation and swelling, or gently press the ice-cube over the affected area for 1 minute. Regular steam can also prevent pimples by opening skin pores and flushing out impurities.
5- Baking Soda:
Not only does it reduce inflammation, it also exfoliates and clears up excess oil-the breeding medium for pimples-on the skin. Once a day, apply a paste of baking soda and water over your face like a mask and rinse after 1 hour. Although it is not recomended for daily use, it is a great way to exfoliate and get rid of pimples.
6- Egg Whites:
When applied over acne-riddled skin, the proteins and vitamins in egg whites unclog pores and reduce inflammation by tightening the skin and extracting excess oils. Apply them directly using a cotton swab-leaving it on overnight or at least 1 hour before rinsing-or beat 1 egg white with 2-3 teaspoons of lemon juice and apply daily, as directed earlier.
7- Papaya:
A major component of most skincare products, the enzyme ‘papain’ present in this fruit prevents pus formation and reduces inflammation. Moreover, papayas are natural exfoliants that clean up dead cells and excess oils from the skin’s surface. Simply apply the mashed-up flesh of 1 papaya onto your skin and wash after 30 minutes.
8- Banana Peels:
Rubbing the inside of a banana peel every day for 5-10 minutes over pimple filled areas can promote healthy cell growth and reduce swelling and inflammation; due to an abundance of Lutein- a powerful antioxidant. For optimum results, wait 30 minutes after application before rinsing.
9- Yeast and Yogurt:
Form a thin mixture by adding 1 teaspoon of yeast into a few tablespoons of yogurt and apply over oily areas, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes. Wash with cold water and rinse with warm water to close skin pores. This treatment is especially suited for people with oily skin.
10- Raw Potatoes:
A popular bruise and wound medicine, the niacin in potatoes lightens acne scars, while potassium, sulfur, phosphorus and chloride reduce blemishes. Shred a couple of potatoes, apply like a mask and massage into the skin for 2 minutes before rinsing. This should help you get rid of pimples quickly.
11- Tea Tree Oil:
Tea tree oil is well known for its incredible ability to fight skin inflamation and its anti-bacterial properties. Studies have shown that it is actually very effective when it comes to treating acne although it does have to be dilluted before it can be directly applied to the skin. It is a great option if you want to get rid of pimples without any side effects. Just make sure you test it on a small patch of your skin before applying it to your face just to be safe.
While natural remedies work best, some forms of acne or pimples may require medical attention. Book an Appointment with a top Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com. Or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your skin-related issues.
