Home Remedies for Pimples and the Natural Practices That Inspired Them

Contrary to popular belief, having acne is not a result of your modern lifestyle. Based on studies and research, blemishes were typical during ancient times. Mentions of home remedies for pimples are available in Ancient Roman texts and even in the Bible, wherein Cain supposedly had acne rosacea and leprosy, which, in Hebrew, refer to “skin eruptions”.

In 18th-century France, it was usual to cover up blemishes using ornamental patches. However, it was only during the 19th century when doctors and physicians saw studying acne management as a worthy endeavor. With the 20th century, the scientific revolution, and professionalizing of physicians came the modern acne treatments that we see today.

This long history shows that treating blemishes on the face has been a prevailing concern and that people have been seeking cures, whether in the form of medicines or home remedies for pimples. About 84% of people between the age of 12 and 24 are affected by acne. Meanwhile, around 55% of adults report having oily skin or irritation caused by acne.

To get rid of pimples, you don’t need to spend a lot or complicate your skincare routine! Here are some natural remedies for pimples inspired by practices from the past.

Acne is caused by an overproduction of sebum that eventually causes dead skin cells to block hair follicles, promoting the growth of the P. acnes bacteria. A way to get rid of pimples is to use apple cider vinegar, the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. It contains citric acid that kills P. acnes, lactic acid that lowers the appearance of scars, and succinic acid that helps suppress inflammation.

To use this ingredient, you can mix one part of the apple cider vinegar with four parts of water. Apply this mixture using cotton or spray it on your face. 

Ancient Greek and Egyptian times fought acne using a sweet pantry staple. Honey features antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pimples. It boosts the production of the cells that repair tissue damage caused by skin conditions, including acne. Manuka honey, in particular, is scientifically found to contain higher levels of antimicrobial properties.

You can create a DIY facial mask by mixing honey with other ingredients like cinnamon, baking soda, and turmeric. Leave it in like you would a face mask and rinse it off to get smoother, moisturized skin.

You can use aloe vera to treat burns and rashes, and you have probably used it after staying under the sun for a long time. Historically, people have applied it to skin conditions like acne! The clear gel from this tropical plant contains salicylic acid and sulfur, which ancient Greeks also used on facial blemishes.

You can cleanse your face with products that contain aloe vera, just like POND'S Aloe Vera Jelly Cleanser, which has 100% natural aloe vera extract and Vitamin B3. It gently cleanses the skin, making it suitable for daily use.

Turmeric is a known superfood. Indian brides even use masks made from turmeric before their wedding day to make their skin look more radiant. Nowadays, more people see the benefits of using turmeric as one of their home remedies for pimples. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that help you combat acne.

Mix turmeric powder with water, almond oil, and chickpea flour, and add other pimple-fighting ingredients to your paste. 

Extracts of citrus fruits are often found in skincare products because they are rich in Vitamin C, a known antioxidant. Otherwise known as ascorbic acid, it fights free radicals and helps restore damaged skin caused by acne. It also promotes collagen synthesis, making you look more radiant than ever.

Using a cleanser that features citrus fruit is a great item to add to your daily skincare routine. Eskinol Deep Cleanser Calamansi removes deep-seated dirt that causes acne while helping lighten dark spots so you can achieve an even skin tone.

These home remedies for pimples are easy to do as the ingredients can be found in your pantry or bought in your nearest groceries. Try these out first to see if it works and consult with your dermatologist if you have any concerns. What DIY treatments have you used to get rid of pimples? Let us know in the comments below!