When it comes to clearing up mild to moderate acne homemade treatments have been used successfully by acne sufferers for many years. These treatments can be used in the place of prescription medications and over the counter creams and treatments. They are also of natural origin, are inexpensive to use, and do not have some of the harmful side effects that more mainstream medications may have.

The primary cause of acne is a bacteria that lives on the skin. It is harmless as long as it stays on the surface of the skin. It's when hair follicles or skin pores get clogged that the problems begin. This bacteria is able to enter the follicles and pores and causes an infection which becomes an acne outbreak.

While it is true that a homemade remedy will take a bit longer to work sometimes the wait is worth it. It will not only save money but for many people it can actually be better for their skin. These remedies are natural, inexpensive, and do not have the potentially harmful side affects that some medications have.

Many of the chemical ingredients found in the OTC creams and medications can actually further irritate skin, especially if it is sensitive. The alcohol that is found in many astringents dries the skin and kills much of the bacteria found on the skin. This may sound like a good thing but if used to much these medications can cause the skin to flake or peel.

Many homemade acne treatments start with supplementing the vitamins and minerals that are most important for healthy skin. This means taking Vitamin E, Vitamin A, and Pantothenic Acid. Deficiencies of these vitamins have been shown to increase the risk of acne outbreaks. Vitamin E oil can be rubbed directly on the affected areas of the skin to help speed the healing.

One of the most effective home remedies for acne is to wash the face twice a day with a mild soap and water. You can also apply a simple facial mask to help keep the skin soft and supple. To reduce redness and inflammation a baking soda paste applied to the affected spots will do the trick.

Homemade acne treatments are often used in the place of prescription, OTC medications, and other forms of treatment that are most often gotten through a doctor. The success of such treatments depends on the dedication and patience shown by the person. When dealing with any homemade acne treatment make sure that you give it enough time to work.