3 Natural Recipes to Clear Acne

Acne, known medically as acne vulgaris, comes in many forms. Small red bumps are called 'papules,' while inflamed and swollen ones are 'pustules.' When they are both swollen and hard underneath, they are 'cystic acne.'

The exact type of acne can only be determined after a professional skin analysis.

If you have acne, I recommend avoiding alcohol, dairy products, smoking, caffeine, sugar, processed foods, and grains.

Key points for caring for acne-prone skin:

• People with acne often think their skin is not sterile, but acne doesn't come from external dirt—it develops from within, beneath the skin. So cleaning your face several times a day won't help. In fact, it can weaken the skin's barrier and lead to more bacteria.
• Cleansing is important, but don't overdo it. Cleansing morning and evening is enough.
• Acne-prone skin needs to be treated more gently than usual.
• Don't pick at or pop acne. Squeezing or scratching can leave deep scars and spread bacteria.
• After cleansing, don't apply moisturizer immediately. Freshly cleansed skin is tight and may absorb too much moisturizer. Wait at least 15 minutes before applying moisturizer if needed.

RECIPE 1

1 bottle of sparkling mineral water
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Add lemon juice to the mineral water and apply to the skin. Prepare fresh and use within the same day.

RECIPE 2:

100 ml water
2 g salt
15 ml apple cider vinegar

Mix water, vinegar, and salt, then boil. After it cools, apply to the skin as a compress using sterile gauze. Prepare fresh and use within the same day.

RECIPE 3:

15 ml thyme water
15 ml apple cider vinegar
100 ml warm water

Mix thyme water and apple cider vinegar with warm water. Apply to the skin as a compress using sterile gauze. Prepare fresh and use within the same day.

Seda Sakacı Çelik, Cosmetology and Medicinal Plants Expert