Many people are familiar with the problem of marks that remain on the skin after pimples disappear. These spots and scars, known as post-acne, can be just as troublesome as the breakouts themselves. Fortunately, there are natural ingredients that can help your skin heal and regain a healthy appearance. Read on Joy-pup how to get rid of post-acne at home.
Why do marks and scars appear after acne?
- Pimple popping. When you try to “get rid” of a pimple by squeezing it, it increases inflammation and damages the surrounding skin, often leading to scarring.
- Dead skin cells. The skin constantly renews itself by shedding dead cells. If these accumulate, they mix with sebum, clog pores, and provoke acne. Improper treatment of such breakouts can leave marks behind.
- Excess sebum. Sometimes the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which mixes with bacteria and dead skin cells, creating a perfect environment for pimples and scars to form.
- Clogged pores. A combination of oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells blocks pores and causes inflammation. Without proper care, this can lead to scarring.
How to remove acne marks using natural remedies?
Honey and cinnamon
Both ingredients are rich in antioxidants. Honey has moisturizing and healing properties, while cinnamon is antimicrobial. Together, they can help soothe the skin and fight bacteria.
How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 2 teaspoons of natural honey into a smooth paste. Apply it to the spots or the entire affected area. Leave on for 15 minutes, then gently rinse off with warm water.
Garlic
Garlic contains allicin and other sulfur compounds known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It can help reduce inflammation.
How to use: For overall skin benefits, include garlic in your diet. For topical use, crush a small clove of garlic and apply the pulp directly to the acne mark for a few minutes (no more than 5–10), then rinse off.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is known for its soothing, moisturizing, and healing properties. It helps reduce redness and promotes skin regeneration.
How to use: Ideally, use fresh juice from an aloe vera leaf. Apply it to clean skin twice a day – in the morning and evening.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains organic acids that gently exfoliate and have antibacterial properties, helping even out skin tone and reduce inflammation.
How to use: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 3–4 parts water. Soak a cotton pad in the solution and gently wipe the affected areas. Leave on for 20–30 seconds (no longer!), then rinse thoroughly with water. Use no more than 1–2 times a week and monitor your skin’s reaction.
Kefir/Natural yogurt
These products contain lactic acid (an AHA), which gently exfoliates dead skin cells, supports cell renewal, and helps lighten dark spots, evening out the tone.
How to use: Apply kefir or yogurt to areas with post-acne marks. Leave on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. For oily skin, you can add a few drops of lemon juice to boost the brightening effect (use with caution, as lemon juice increases photosensitivity).
Coconut oil
Coconut oil contains fatty acids with antibacterial properties and antioxidants. It can moisturize the skin and promote healing.
How to use: Apply a small amount of warm (melted in your hands) coconut oil to post-acne areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water using a gentle cleanser.
Note: Coconut oil can be comedogenic (clog pores) for some skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin. Use with caution and discontinue if new breakouts occur.
Also read: 10 benefits of yogurt for facial skin.
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