home remedies to treat acne - #17018
I am really struggling with my acne, and it’s gotten pretty bad lately. Like, I’ve tried a bunch of stuff to get rid of it, but nothing seems to work, and honestly I’m getting super frustrated. A few weeks ago, I started noticing these painful red bumps all over my cheeks and forehead. It’s like they just keep multiplying! I’ve been to the dermatologist, and they prescribed topical treatments, but they only helped a little and I can’t afford all those products they suggested. I keep hearing about home remedies to treat acne, like using honey or tea tree oil, but I’m not sure if they actually make a difference. I’ve tried washing my face more often and changing my diet—cutting out dairy and sugar, ugh—but still no luck. Questioning if maybe I need to go back to the doctor, but I kinda want to explore these home remedies to treat acne first. Have you guys had any luck with home remedies to treat acne? Like, which ones are the most effective, and how long does it usually take to see results? I just want my skin to clear up and feel normal again!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
When it comes to home remedies for acne, there’s a lot of mixed information out there, but a few may offer some benefits based on their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so what works well for one person may not work for someone else. Tea tree oil, famous for its antibacterial properties, may help reduce acne lesions. However, it can be irritating to some skin types, so it’s advisable to dilute it with a carrier oil, like jojoba or coconut oil, before applying it directly to your skin. Use a cotton swab to apply this mix sparingly to affected areas once or twice a day. Honey, particularly raw honey or Manuka honey, is often touted for its antimicrobial and healing properties. A thin layer can be applied directly to clean skin and left on for about 20-30 minutes before rinsing off. Aloe vera is another option due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties—apply the gel directly from an aloe leaf to reduce redness and soothe irritated skin. When it comes to diet, continuing to limit dairy and high-glycemic foods might be beneficial, as these have been implicated in some studies to trigger acne in some individuals. It may take several weeks to notice improvements, and patience will be key. That said, it’s essential to monitor how your skin reacts. Should there be any worsening or lack of improvement, it’s a good idea to revisit a health professional, perhaps opting for alternatives that might be more cost-effective, or seeking samples of suggested products. Above all, avoid popping or picking at acne to reduce the risk of scarring or infection.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.