3 DIY Home Remedies for Acne – The Upper Hand in the War Against Acne

Out of all non-life-threatening afflictions out there, I have a hard time in finding one more annoying than acne and if you were struggling with it for as long as I did, I’m sure you would agree. Teenagers are perhaps the ones most interested in finding a way of dealing with acne once and for all, but they are not the only ones.

Acne affects them more than others, but let’s just say that I know a few who are past that age and are still pestered by it. Regardless of age, I urge you not to despair because now you can finally get the upper hand in the war against acne, by using an inexpensive and highly effective homemade remedy.

Add to this that you will have a brand new and legitimate reason to buy cocoa now and this acne-fighting solution will win your heart immediately. Cocoa tastes great and we can’t have enough of it, but make sure that you don’t eat through your stash because it is just as amazing for external use.

It is rich in antioxidants and given the fact that acne is a byproduct of bacteria, it makes perfect sense to use it to fight the infection. The pores need to be cleansed of microscopic organisms first and then the skin can be moisturized to speed up the healing, but dealing with the bacteria is the main priority.

A chocolate skin wrap will work wonders on your battered skin and the only shortcoming is that you will need a lot of willpower to refrain from eating it while brewing the magical mixture.

Beauty experts have found that cocoa contains more antioxidants per cup than red wine or green tea while regular eating (or drinking) of dark chocolate without sugar can calm skin that’s been irritated by sun exposure, and in general, improve skin texture, hydration, and appearance.

Cocoa butter is actually a familiar additive to many cosmetic products such as body butter, creams or scrubs.

In general, chocolate acts as a moisturizer (makes skin smoother and more supple); calm irritated, dry skin; promote rejuvenation from inside out and help detoxification.

Please note that this is not recommended for people with active severe acne. It is, however, recommended for people with acne scars and marks or who have dry and irritated or tired skin.

Chocolate has highly firming and nourishing qualities, so if you want to firm your neck and chest, here is a simple (and a bit messy) way to do it. Make sure your skin is clean before applying this wrap.

You’ll Need:

• Unsweetened dark or semi-dark chocolate (the amount depends on the size of the area to cover)
• 2 teaspoons light cream

Directions:
* Melt the chocolate over low heat until completely melted. The amount of use depends on the size of the area to cover.
* Add a teaspoon or two of light cream to the chocolate, until you reach a smooth consistency.
* Allow the mixture to cool.
* Smear the mixture on your neck and chest, and leave it on for about 20 minutes.
* As you wait, relax, and maybe put a chamomile compress over your eyes.
* Rinse the wrap off in the shower, or wash it off with tepid water and a soft cloth.

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, also included in many acne treatments where it acts as a chemical peel to reduce acne and scarring. The lemon juice in this paste can work as an exfoliant to get rid of the dry or dead skin, and the baking soda acts as a neutralizer to the acid. Simple to make, give this one a try.

Keep in mind that if you are allergic to aspirin, you should not use this treatment. Also, before applying the paste to your face, first test it on your inner arm where your skin is more sensitive, to help ensure you can tolerate the ingredients. Don’t forget to first wash your face to remove any dirt or makeup.

If you feel any discomfort after applying the paste, immediately rinse it off with the baking soda and water solution. After using the paste, you may find your skin becomes a bit dry. Use an SPF moisturizer in your skin care routine to help eliminate any dryness.

You’ll Need:

• 6 non-coated aspirin
• 1/8 tsp of lemon juice
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:
* Combine the non-coated aspirin with just enough lemon juice to cover them (about 1/8 of a teaspoon juice for six aspirin).
* Combine the water and baking soda in a small bowl, and set aside.
* Let the aspirin dissolve in the juice, and then mix it to form a thin paste.
* Apply the paste to the area where your blemish is, and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
* Remove the paste with a cotton ball dipped in a solution of baking soda and water.

DIY Soothing Oatmeal Paste

Talk about a simple solution! This DIY soothing oatmeal paste couldn’t be easier to make, and it can do wonders for your skin. Not only is oatmeal good to eat, but it’s good for your skin, too.

Oatmeal can reduce the redness from acne and help soothe inflammation on your skin. You’ll find many over-the-counter skin care treatments that include oatmeal in the ingredients.

It’s been used for years to treat irritated skin, dry skin and even as a natural remedy for acne.

You’ll Need:

• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup boiling water

Before you apply the paste, pull your hair back away from your face and wash your face to remove any dirt or makeup.

Directions:
* Grind the rolled oats in a food processor or grinder.
* Boil the water.
* Mix the rolled oats and the hot water in a small bowl to form a thick paste.
* Allow the mixture to cool completely before applying it to your skin.
* When cool, apply the mixture to your face.
* Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water and a soft washcloth.