Acne is a common problem among people all over the world. It is a problem that, unfortunately, usually cannot be hidden. Acne is one of the main reasons for teenage depression in the United States. It is unfortunate that acne lowers the self-esteem of those it plagues. Luckily, there are things that can be done to help prevent this embarrassing situation.

Preventative Care

While a lot of focus is put on how to stop acne once it’s occurred, it may be surprising to learn that a lot (although not all) acne can be prevented through behavioral changes.

Some of these include:

• Keep your hair and hair products off of your face. The oils from these products, and yes, even your hair, can get on your skin and cause your pores to clog. If you have lots of acne on your forehead, it may be due to bangs.
• Sleep on your back. The oils and dirt from your hair and face get onto your pillow. When you sleep on your stomach, your face is constantly touching these oils. It is important to wash your pillow case and sheets frequently.
• Keep your hands away from your face. Dirt and oils from your hands are transferred to your face when you rest your head on your chin, pick at your skin, etc. Also, wash your hands regularly.
• Don’t sleep with makeup on. This is the single easiest way to prevent acne. In addition, use oil free products, such as moisturizers and foundations.
• Eat healthy.
• Exercise.
• Manage your stress.

Home Remedies

Unfortunately, not everyone is good about making sure they prevent acne, or sometimes people do all they can and acne still pops up on their face.

Many people visit dermatologists and pay a lot of money for treatments that may not even work. However, there are lots of different home remedies for acne—and you probably won’t even need to leave your house for the products you’ll use.

Honey
While honey cannot prevent acne, it is widely known that honey can help someone deal with their acne. This also includes helping to get rid of acne scars. Honey helps because it reduces redness, is great for sensitive skin, is fairly inexpensive, and it cleanses your pores. In addition, it has other bonuses for your skin, such as making it glow and feel soft.

There are lots of different recipes for a home honey-mask, but really all you need is honey. Apply a thin layer to your face. Let it dry for 20 minutes, and then wash with warm water.

Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera works great for spot treatment and helps diminish redness and swelling that acne can also cause. Aloe Vera will help moisturize your skin and brighten your complexion.

To use, apply Aloe Vera on the heavily affected area. It will then absorb into the skin.

Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used as a facial cleanser, which will help prevent acne. Baking soda will remove dirt and dead skin from your face, as well as clean out your pores.

To use, mix baking soda with water until it reaches a toothpaste-like consistency. Then rub in a circular motion all over for your face for at least one minute. Then wash with water and pat dry.

Toothpaste
Toothpaste, like honey, cannot prevent pimples from showing up. However, due to its’ high sodium concentrate, toothpaste is great for overnight or “emergency” spot treatment purposes. Toothpaste can dry out your pimple and reduce redness.

To use, spread a small portion of toothpaste on the affected area. Let it sit overnight, and then wash it off in the morning. As a warning, do not use toothpaste that contains tartar because the chemicals in it are too strong for facial skin.

Find What Works Best

There are lots of home remedies available for those who struggle with acne. Experiment with different ideas and find which works best for you.