Acne Solutions that Really Work

Ever notice how just about everyone has a tip, trick, or idea about what constitutes an effective acne remedy? The truth is, acne solutions are a dime a dozen. But there are some tried and true treatments out there that will really help you manage the occasional breakout. Because one thing is clear (even when your skin is not): if it works, it’s worth a shot.

Get the Red Out

Sure, everyone knows that for dry, gritty, or irritated eyes nothing beats the soothing comfort of a few splashes of eye drops in each. But did you know that Visine can get the “red out” in more ways than one? Try putting a few drops on a cotton ball and applying it to a pimple that is just beginning to rear its ugly head. It may sound cliché, but this is one acne solution that really makes a difference. Do this a few of times throughout the night. You’ll wake up the next morning less one pimple and plus one gorgeous face.

Out of the Cupboard and Onto Your Face

Besides being the breakfast staple of millions of homes across the world, oatmeal can also be quite the little acne solution. Start by cooking a single serving of oatmeal according to the package directions. Oh, and stay away from the flavored pouches. No need for a face full of apples and cinnamon.

Add about ¼ cup of honey, mix thoroughly, and cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool, apply the yummy mixture all over your face, masque style (avoid your eyes). Leave the masque on for around 10-15 minutes. Caution:  if you forget and leave it on longer than the suggested time you might need to borrow a jackhammer from your construction worker boyfriend to get it off. Oatmeal exfoliates, reduces the redness caused by acne and is just plain fun to have on your face. Explore your wild oats.

A Little Sweet, A Little Sour

Remember the Brady Bunch episode where poor Jan rubs lemon after lemon on her face in a vain attempt to rid herself of freckles? Turns out that the middle Brady wasn’t too far off for a solution for her adolescent acne.

And a rose by any other name would be rich in antibacterial properties. Mix about 2 tablespoons of both, and apply over your face for about 15 minutes. When time is up, rinse with cool water and pat dry. (Keep in mind that the lemon juice might sting a bit as it hits your face.) Best time to squeeze this acne solution in? That would be at night. Otherwise, be sure and avoid direct sunlight after applying the lemon juice to your skin.

Now, it’s important to note that while these at home fixes will work for the occasional breakout or rebel pimple, serious acne deserves serious acne solutions. If you’re dealing with repeat breakouts or nasty pimples, it may be time to move past the home remedies and find a multi step treatment program to get your complexion under control.