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11-03-2025 Team Medicover Dermatology

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Koppisetti Satya Naga Ravi Teja, Dermatologist

How To Get Rid Of Acne

Acne, which is also known as acne vulgaris, is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, from teenagers to adults. It usually appears on the face, chest and back and can be really frustrating to deal with. When acne flares up, it can make you feel self-conscious and impact your confidence.

Knowing what causes acne and how to treat it, whether naturally or with medication, can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

What Causes Acne?

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, menstruation or pregnancy can lead to excess oil production. Other factors include:

Stress: Increases cortisol, which can worsen acne.
Diet: High-glycemic foods and dairy may contribute.
Poor skincare habits: Over-washing or using harsh products.
Genetics: A family history of acne increases your chances.

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Dermatologist-Recommended Acne Treatments

For moderate to severe acne, dermatologists often suggest treatments that target bacteria, inflammation and clogged pores. These include:

Topical treatments: Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid.
Oral medications: Antibiotics, birth control pills or isotretinoin.
In-office procedures: Chemical peels, laser therapy, or drainage.

It's important to follow a treatment plan for at least 6–8 weeks to see visible improvement.

Best Natural Home Remedies for Acne

Tea Tree Oil for Acne

Tea tree oil is known for its ability to fight bacteria and reduce skin swelling. To use it mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and gently dab it onto your blemishes with a cotton swab.

Aloe Vera for Acne

Aloe vera is great for calming irritated skin. You can use the fresh gel from the aloe plant directly on your skin to help lessen redness and swelling from acne.

Turmeric for Acne

Turmeric is a natural ingredient that can help reduce inflammation. You can create a simple face mask by mixing turmeric with honey or yogurt, then apply it to your face to soothe breakouts.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Its natural acids help kill acne-causing bacteria and restore pH balance. Always dilute before using to avoid skin irritation.

DIY Anti-Acne Masks

Masks made from ingredients like honey, cinnamon, oatmeal, and clay can help absorb oil and reduce inflammation.

Reduce Stress

Stress can make acne worse due to hormonal changes in your body. Finding ways to relax, like practicing mindfulness, doing yoga or getting regular exercise can keep your stress levels down.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity not only boosts your blood circulation but also helps balance hormones that are linked to acne. Just remember to wash your skin after you exercise to keep it clean.

Brewer's Yeast

This is a supplement that contains B vitamins and chromium, which may support skin health and reduce acne when taken as a supplement.

Follow a Low-Glycemic Diet

Eating foods that don't cause a rapid increase in blood sugar like whole grains and vegetables can help make acne less severe.

Fish Oil Supplement for Acne

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil reduce inflammation and may help control acne.

Witch Hazel for Acne

Witch hazel is a natural remedy that acts like a toner. It can help tighten pores and reduce redness. You can apply it with a cotton pad after you wash your face.

Honey and Cinnamon Mask for Acne

Both honey and cinnamon have properties that fight bacteria. You can create a simple mask by mixing raw honey with a little bit of cinnamon and leaving it on your face for about 10 minutes.

Zinc Supplement for Acne

Zinc helps with healing and controlling oil production in the skin. Taking a zinc supplement, according to the recommended dosage, may help decrease acne breakouts.

How to Get Rid of Acne Fast

Spot Treatments

Use products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These can help target individual pimples directly and provide quick relief.

Ice and Anti-Inflammatory Hacks

Ice can reduce swelling and redness If you have a pimple that's swollen and red. Just wrap an ice cube in a cloth and hold against the pimple for a few minutes.

Overnight Pimple-Reducing Routines

Try pimple patches, a light application of tea tree oil or sulfur-based masks overnight for visible improvement by morning.

Treating Specific Types of Acne

How to Get Rid of Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne is a serious type of acne that forms deep under the skin. It's painful and can leave scars if not treated properly. Here's what you can do:

Avoid Touching or Squeezing: Popping cysts can make them worse and lead to scarring.
Use Ice to Reduce Swelling: Apply a clean ice pack for a few minutes to calm inflammation.
Apply a Spot Treatment: Use creams with benzoyl peroxide or sulfur to treat cysts gently.
Use a Gentle Cleanser: Wash your face twice daily with a mild, non-comedogenic face wash.
Don't Overwash Your Skin: Too much cleansing can dry out your skin and trigger more oil production.
Avoid Heavy Makeup: Choose non-comedogenic makeup that won't block pores.
Visit a Dermatologist: Cystic acne usually needs medical treatment like antibiotics, oral retinoids, or cortisone injections.

How to Treat Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne usually shows up around the jawline, chin or cheeks and is often linked to changes in hormones. Here's how to manage it:

Keep Your Skin Clean: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle and non-drying cleanser.
Use Products with Salicylic Acid: These help clear pores and reduce inflammation.
Avoid Harsh Scrubs: Stick to gentle skincare products that won't irritate sensitive skin.
Apply Benzoyl Peroxide Creams: These can help kill acne-causing bacteria.
Manage Stress Levels: Stress can trigger hormone imbalance, so practice relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Reduce sugary or processed foods that may trigger breakouts.
Talk to a Dermatologist: A specialist may prescribe hormonal treatments like birth control pills or oral medications.

How to Get Rid of Acne Scars?

Acne scars can remain on the skin even after breakouts are gone. These marks may fade over time, but certain tips can help improve your skin faster:

Use Gentle Exfoliators: Exfoliate 2 to 3 times a week to remove dead skin and to help new skin growth.
Try Products with Vitamin C: Creams or serums with vitamin C can lighten dark spots on your face and even skin tone.
Apply Sunscreen Daily: Sun exposure can make scars worse. Use sunscreen every day to protect your skin.
Use Retinoids: Retinoid creams can speed up skin cell turnover and help fade scars.
Try Chemical Peels or Microdermabrasion: These treatments remove the top layer of skin or acne to reduce scars.
Avoid Picking at Skin: Picking at scars or scabs can delay healing and make the marks more visible.
Consult a Dermatologist: If home remedies don't work, a skin specialist can offer advanced treatments like laser therapy.

How to Treat Back Acne?

Back acne can be frustrating and sometimes painful. It forms when sweat, oil and dead skin block the pores on your back and it can get worse from tight clothes or not keeping clean. Here are some simple tips to help treat back acne:

Use Special Body Washes: Try body washes with medication that can help clear up acne.
Shower After Sweating: Always rinse off after you've been sweating to remove dirt and oil.
Gently Exfoliate: Scrub your back gently 2 to 3 times a week to get rid of dead skin.
Choose Loose Clothing: Wear loose and breathable clothes to keep your skin stay cool and dry.
Avoid Heavy Lotions or Oils: Do not use thick lotions or oils that can block your pores.
Use Clean Bedding and Towels: Wash your sheets and towels often to keep things fresh.
Avoid Picking or Scratching: Try not to scratch or pick at any acne, as it can make it worse.
Consult a Dermatologist: If your acne doesn't improve, consider consulting a dermatologist for expert advice.

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Conclusion

Getting rid of acne is not about quick fixes, it is about knowing your skin, treating the root cause and staying consistent with your routine practices. Whether you choose dermatologist-approved medications or natural remedies, patience and care are very important to cure acne permanently. Clear skin is possible with the right approach and support so if your condition is not improving after trying home remedies, kindly visit a dermatologist for proper diagnosis of your skin and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Acne develops in specific zones because of some internal issues, including high blood pressure, dehydration, and digestive well-being.

Acne occurs whenever the pores of your skin are blocked by oil, dead cells, or bacteria. Each pore of your skin is a follicle opening, containing hair and a sebaceous (oil) gland that releases sebum.

Acne scars can be permanent, so it's important to see a dermatologist if you are developing them. Acne treatment helps prevent scarring by stopping more spots from forming.

Yes, vitamin C helps with acne scars by promoting collagen production, reducing inflammation, and lightening hyperpigmentation, making scars less visible over time. It's a popular ingredient in skincare for these reasons.

Foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish, can help fade acne scars by promoting skin healing and reducing inflammation.

Salicylic acid helps remove acne by exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. It is effective in treating and preventing breakouts.

Use remedies like aloe vera, honey, and lemon juice, which have healing and lightening properties. Maintaining a healthy diet also supports skin repair.

Acne is a skin condition characterized by multiple blemishes, including pimples, blackheads, and cysts, while a pimple is a single inflamed spot resulting from clogged pores.