Cystic acne can be painful as well as embarrassing. Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies that can help this frustrating condition. Home remedies for cystic acne include turmeric, apple cider vinegar, vitamin C and dietary changes.
Cystic acne differs from regular acne in that the pimples are larger, deeper and more painful. Cystic acne, also called nodulocystic acne, typically feel like soft, fluid-filled lumps beneath the skin’s surface. It is considered the most serious type of acne blemish. These cysts can be quite painful.
There are many effective home remedies that are used externally or internally for acute outbreaks of cystic acne, however, dietary changes may be necessary to solve a chronic case of cystic acne.
Lavender essential oil can be applied to acne cysts with a q-tip several times a day. Most people can tolerate lavender essential oil neat (without diluting.) If you find the oil to be too strong, dilute it into some coconut oil or castor oil first.
French green clay or bentonite clay have drawing and healing properties. Clay can be mixed into a paste with water and applied to cysts. The clay is allowed to dry and then is rinsed off gently.
Raw honey can be used topically for cystic acne a couple of times a day. Honey is a wonderful "medicine" because of its strong antiseptic and antibacterial effects. Look for a raw and local honey at health food stores and farmers' markets.
Extra virgin coconut oil can be used topically and internally for acne cysts. While applying oil to a pimple may sound counterproductive, this remedy does work well in some cases. Coconut oil can also be used internally. It has antibacterial properties and can heal from the inside out. A typical dose is from 1-3 tablespoons daily. It can be taken plain or added to food.
Apple cider vinegar can be used externally or internally for cystic acne. To use it externally, dab a q-tip in raw apple cider vinegar and then onto your cysts. This should be done twice a day. If this seems too strong for you, dilute the apple cider vinegar with water using 1/2 of each.
Apple Cider vinegar added to a glass of water makes a tonic that helps to alkalize the body, healing a number of health problems, including cystic acne. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water and sip throughout the day.
Vitamin C helps the body to fight infection. Acne cysts have an infectious component, so vitamin C is a good solution for this problem for many who suffer with it. 1000 mg of vitamin C can be taken 3 times a day. If this dose should cause loose stools, cut back on the amount you take.
Turmeric root, a spice from India, fights bacteria and inflammation. A typical dose of turmeric is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon twice daily. It can be taken in milk, almond milk, yogurt, or applesauce. Turmeric can be constipating and should be taken with plenty of water.
Whether it is the caffeine or the acidifying effect on the body that coffee has, eliminating coffee solves the cystic acne problem for some.
Dairy products can be an issue for those with cystic acne. Try eliminating dairy products for two weeks and see if you notice an improvement. If dairy is the cause, you can try out cultured dairy products or raw dairy products instead. If the processing of dairy is the problem, cultured or raw products may agree with you even if most dairy products do not.
Sugar is consumed in astonishing amounts through foods and drinks. Sugar provides no nutrition but plenty of calories. It also can cause inflammation. Dramatically reducing sugar consumption can make a big difference in the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Processed foods are readily available, inexpensive and convenient. Unfortunately, they lack nutrition and often contain a lot of chemicals. Look for whole foods to eat instead. If you need convenience, reach for a banana. If you need cost efficiency, fix lentils.
Freshly made juice is a powerhouse of nutrition. Fresh juice contains enzymes and micronutrients and quality calories. Green juices, carrot juice, and vegetable juices can be healing and delicious.
Some will find that one of the above remedies will be the answer they have been looking for. Others will need a combination of the remedies to bring healing to cystic acne.
Be encouraged; cystic acne can be beaten! Have you tried one of these popular home remedies for cystic acne? We would love to hear from you! Continue reading to see what solutions our readers have found for the problem of cystic acne.
Additional Pages of Interest:
Natural Remedies for Acne
Natural Remedies for Acne Scars
