As many as 95% of people aged 11-30 experience acne to some extent, while 3% of adults struggle with persistent acne into their 30s and beyond. For the millions affected, finding effective and natural solutions can be challenging amidst countless products promising miracle cures.
To help us find out more about natural acne remedies, George Sandhu, Deputy Pharmacy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy Online Doctor, has compiled a list of simple, science-backed solutions that can complement prescription acne treatments.
“Many people are seeking gentler alternatives to manage their acne, particularly those who have experienced side effects from prescription medications,” says the expert. “While severe acne often requires medical intervention, there are several natural approaches that can make a significant difference for mild to moderate cases.”
“Dealing with acne and breakouts can be frustrating, but there are natural remedies and simple daily habits that can offer gentle solutions that might help your skin heal.”
Daily habits that make a difference
“While these natural remedies can be helpful for many acne sufferers, they should not replace prescribed medical treatments for moderate to severe acne. These natural approaches work best for mild cases or as complementary care alongside medical treatment.
“Even the best treatments require consistent basic skin hygiene -regular cleansing, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, and using non-comedogenic products. What works for one person may not work for another, so patience and careful observation of how your skin responds is essential.”
Wash your face twice daily with mild soap and lukewarm water
“Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser morning and evening with lukewarm water. Hot water strips natural oils while cold doesn’t remove enough sebum. Avoid harsh, alcohol-based products that can irritate and worsen inflammation.”
Don’t pop or pick at spots (though tempting)
Squeezing pimples pushes bacteria deeper, causes inflammation, and increases scarring risk. While your skin tries to rebuild itself after trauma, if the damage is too severe, your body is unable to create enough collagen for the skin to fully heal, which can result in scarring.
“Not only that, but if a pimple contains infected pus, squeezing it can spread the bacteria to your surrounding pores and hair follicles, leading to more breakouts.”
Change pillowcases weekly to avoid bacteria buildup
“Pillowcases collect oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria that transfer back to your skin during sleep. Change them weekly, or more often, if you have oily skin.
“Silk pillowcases are suitable for people prone to acne as the smooth surface creates less friction against the skin, reduces irritation, and doesn’t absorb as much skincare product or natural oils as cotton pillowcases, potentially helping to prevent new breakouts.”
Drink plenty of water to flush toxins
“Staying well-hydrated supports overall skin health and helps your body eliminate waste products effectively. While water alone won’t cure acne, maintaining proper hydration, around 2 litres daily for most adults, supports your skin’s natural barrier function and helps regulate oil production.”
Natural remedies for clearing acne and breakouts
Tea Tree Oil
- How to use: Dilute 1-2 drops with 12 drops of carrier oil (like coconut oil)
- Application: Apply to affected areas with a cotton swab once daily
“Tea tree oil can be a helpful, natural option for those with mild acne or breakouts. Just mix 1-2 drops with 12 drops of a gentle oil like coconut oil, then dab it onto spots with a cotton swab once a day. It works because it contains natural compounds that fight the bacteria causing breakouts. But don’t use it undiluted as it’s potent stuff and can irritate your skin if not properly diluted.”
Raw Honey Mask
- How to use: Apply 1 teaspoon of raw honey to clean skin
- Application: Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water
“Just spread a teaspoon of raw honey on clean skin, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. Honey naturally contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and has antibacterial properties that can help fight acne. Try it 2-3 times a week as part of your skincare routine – it’s gentle enough for most skin types and you might be surprised by the results.”
Aloe Vera Gel
- How to use: Extract fresh gel from an aloe leaf or use pure shop-bought gel
- Application: Apply a thin layer to affected areas after cleansing
“Aloe vera is one of the best natural remedies for acne-prone skin. You can either squeeze the gel from a fresh leaf or buy pure aloe gel from the supermarket. After washing your face, just smooth a thin layer over any red or irritated areas. It helps calm inflammation, speeds up healing, and moisturises without blocking your pores. Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling sensation, especially nice for angry, inflamed spots.”
Green Tea Compress
- How to use: Soak 2 green tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes, then cool completely
- Application: Soak clean cloth in tea and apply to face for 10 minutes
“Green tea isn’t just good for drinking – it can work wonders on acne too. Make a simple compress by soaking two tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes, then let it cool completely. Soak a clean cloth in the tea and rest it on your face for about 10 minutes. The natural antioxidants in green tea help calm redness and fight the bacteria that cause breakouts. You can do this daily as a gentle skin treatment”
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner
- How to use: Dilute 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water (more water for sensitive skin)
- Application: Apply with cotton pad after cleansing, allow to dry
“I recommend diluting apple cider vinegar before using it on your skin – one part vinegar to three parts water, or even more for sensitive skin. It helps balance pH and fight bacteria, but be careful – using it straight can cause irritation”
Turmeric Paste
- How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon turmeric powder with 2 teaspoons plain yoghurt and 1 teaspoon honey
- Application: Apply to face for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly
“A turmeric paste made with yoghurt and honey can be great for soothing the skin. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may help with redness and irritation. However, it can temporarily stain the skin yellow, so it’s best to rinse thoroughly after use. Those with a turmeric allergy should avoid it.”
Cinnamon and Honey Mask
- How to use: Mix 2 tablespoons honey with 1 teaspoon cinnamon to form a paste
- Application: Apply to affected areas for 10-15 minutes, then rinse
“Mix two tablespoons of honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon into a paste and apply it to problem areas for about 10-15 minutes before washing off. Both ingredients naturally fight bacteria while the cinnamon gives a nice boost to blood circulation in the skin. It’s best to use this mask once or twice a week at most.”
Oatmeal (Porridge) Scrub
- How to use: Blend 2 tablespoons of porridge into a fine powder, mix with water to form paste
- Application: Gently massage onto damp skin using circular motions, then rinse
“Porridge makes an excellent natural scrub for acne-prone skin. Blend two tablespoons of porridge into a fine powder and mix with enough water to create a paste. Gently massage this onto damp skin using circular motions before rinsing thoroughly. The porridge works by absorbing excess oil while gently removing dead skin cells and calming inflammation. For best results without over-exfoliating, try this just once or twice a week as part of their skincare routine.”
If you are worried about acne, speak with your pharmacist or GP who can recommend the best course of action.