Garlic
Garlic has been used since ancient Egypt for both cooking and medicine. It belongs to the onion family known as Allium and is related to leeks and onions. Ayurvedic healers in India have found garlic to be helpful in clearing up adult acne and acne scars. In addition to this, garlic has also been found to treat skin allergies and skin diseases.
How Can Garlic Help Your Skin?
Acne occurs when your skin overproduces natural oils. Bacteria then builds up in your pores, causing a breakout or a blemish. A blackhead gets its dark color when the oil oxidizes in a pore. Researchers believe that garlic contains powerful antioxidants, even more than oranges. A 2009 article in Science Daily reported that the allicin in garlic decomposes into sulfenic acid, a powerful antibiotic. When applied topically to acne, the antioxidant and antibiotic properties of garlic may be able to dry up acne and can lighten acne scars as well. Some even claim that eating garlic or taking garlic supplements can eventually clear up breakouts from the inside out. Please note that some people with very sensitive skin have reported excessive drying of the skin or a burning sensation on their skin when using this cure. If this happens to you, discontinue use or dilute your garlic mixture.
How to Make a Topical Home Remedy with Garlic
One way to make a garlic skin treatment is to crush one garlic clove into a paste, then dilute it with half a cup of warm water. To use this cure, simply apply the mixture to your face with a clean cloth, then wash your face with a gentle cleanser. This mixture can also be used on other areas where acne occurs, such as the shoulders or back.