Acne Remedies 

Whether you're a teenage acne sufferer, or an adult who can't get rid of those annoying facial blemishes, you know how annoying acne can be.  While there are many acne remedies available over the counter, many people don't know that there are also home treatments for this problem.  Herbal remedies, homeopathic remedies, diet chances and even vitamins can have an effect on your acne.

One of the easiest and safest ways to fight acne is by taking vitamins.  Options include vitamins A and E, and specialized vitamins such as niacin.  Remember to check with your pharmacist or doctor about the safe dosage of these vitamins.  You can also use vitamin C as an acne remedy.  Soaking the peel of a citrus fruit in water, then placing it on the afflicted area is said to be effective against acne.

Garlic has amazing properties when it comes to fighting acne, yet most people don't think of it at all.  Rubbing fresh cloves of garlic over your skin like a cloth or sponge can act in much the same way as an acne ointment or cream.  Garlic contains antimicrobial agents which can help kill the bacteria responsible for acne.  People who've used this method tend to find that their acne clears up promptly.  You can also eat garlic to help reduce your acne breakouts.

Another easily found household product is aloe vera.  This soothing substance can be found in lotions and sunburn relieving products.  You can also find it in cleansers and aftershave.  Aloe's soothing properties mean that it's unlikely to cause an allergic or inflammatory reaction.  Be sure to check for other ingredients that could be a problem, however.  Rubbing aloe into your face in the morning and just before bed can improve your complexion and reduce breakouts.  If you have an actual aloe plant in the house, you can also use the secretions from the leaves to fight your acne.

While many people are advised not to expose their skin to much heat, you can get some benefit if you have a home sun bed.  You must remember to use it in moderation, and preferably with the advice of your doctor.  However, it can help to dry the skin in the same way as an astringent, and kill the bacteria which cause acne.  A hot bath of Epsom salts, easily acquired from the drugstore or supermarket, can also give some relief.

Of course, specially designed acne creams and ointments are the most reliable methods for coping with your acne symptoms.  However, home remedies are less expensive, and can help you if you can't get to a commercial remedy quickly enough.  Some home remedies also take effect faster than commercial ones, though their results are variable.