Natural Home Remedies for Pimples

Pimples, a type of acne, occur when pores and hair follicles become clogged with oil, dirt and bacteria. Acne can strike men and women of all ages, and dermatologists typically treat the condition with prescription creams or pills. You can remedy pimples with natural treatments. Skin Care Physicians states that it may take four to eight weeks to see improvement with home treatment.

Cleansing and Makeup

Regular and thorough skin cleansing keeps excess oil and dirt out of pores. Skin Care Physicians recommends cleansing your skin twice a day with a mild soap. Rinse the soap off completely. Do not cleanse too often or scrub too hard, which can irritate skin and strip the skin of natural oils, causing glands to produce extra oil to compensate. Avoid oil-based makeup and look for types that are water-based and noncomedogenic.

Zinc and Green Tea

According to the Mayo Clinic, zinc may be beneficial for acne because it helps to reduce inflammation. Take zinc supplements or consume foods that are good sources of zinc, such as chicken, peanuts, grains and oysters. Pioneer Thinking suggests using green tea to treat pimples because of its antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Green tea reduces inflammation and balances hormones without drying out skin. Dab green tea extract on pimples or brew a pot of green tea. You can either drink the tea throughout the day or use it as a facial cleanser.

Egg White Mask

Egg whites help reduce pimples by tightening pores. Crack open an egg and separate the yolk from the white. Spread the egg white onto your face and allow it to dry for about 10 minutes, which will make your skin begin to feel tight. Rinse the egg white off with cool water and allow your skin to air dry. Planet Green recommends using an egg white mask once a week, or twice a week if you are breaking out.

Toothpaste and Lemon Juice

Toothpaste and lemon juice are both readily accessible ingredients that will help dry out pimples and reduce swelling. Dab toothpaste onto your pimple, but make sure that it is a paste instead of a gel. Apply lemon juice to your pimple using a cotton swab. Leave the toothpaste or lemon juice on your skin overnight or rinse it off when it dries.