Are you tired of waking up to new pimples on your cheeks every morning? Do you find yourself constantly battling with stubborn acne that just won’t seem to go away? You’re not alone. Cheek acne is a common concern for many people, and it can be frustrating to deal with. But here’s the good news: there are natural, effective ways to combat those pesky pimples. This article will discuss 14 natural remedies to get rid of acne on your cheeks.
What Causes Acne on the Cheeks?
Before exploring how to treat cheek acne, it’s helpful to understand what leads to pimples popping up in this area of the face. Knowing the underlying causes makes it easier to prevent and troubleshoot breakouts.
- Excessive Oil Production: Overproduction of sebum (skin oil) by the sebaceous glands can clog hair follicles. This can lead to the formation of acne.
- Clogged Pores: Dead skin cells, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the pores, causing blockages and contributing to acne formation.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can trigger acne.
- Bacterial Infection: The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes can multiply and cause inflammation when hair follicles become clogged.
- Poor Skincare Habits: Using harsh or pore-clogging skincare products, not cleansing the skin regularly, or using dirty makeup applicators can contribute to acne.
- Diet: Certain foods, such as high-glycemic-index foods and dairy products, may exacerbate acne in some individuals.
- Stress: Stress can lead to hormonal changes, potentially triggering or worsening acne.
- Genetics: A family history of acne may increase the likelihood of developing acne, as genetics can influence skin type and oil production.
- Friction and Pressure: Constant rubbing or pressure on the cheeks, such as from tight clothing, cellphones, or resting hands on the face, can cause acne development.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollution, humidity, or certain weather conditions can affect the skin and contribute to acne.
14 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Acne on Your Cheeks
Now that we’ve covered the root causes, let’s discuss the best practices, products, and home remedies to clear up pesky cheek acne for good.
1. Tea Tree Oil: Nature’s Acne-Fighting Powerhouse
Tea tree oil has long been hailed as a natural acne remedy, thanks to its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
It contains terpenes, which are compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial properties. A study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that a 5% tea tree oil gel was as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide in treating acne.
How to use:
- Mix 1-2 drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil
- Apply the mixture directly to your acne spots using a cotton swab
- Leave it on for a few hours or overnight
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
Pro tip: For an extra boost, try mixing tea tree oil with aloe vera gel. This combination can provide both antibacterial and soothing effects, helping to fight acne while calming irritated skin.
Caution: Always dilute tea tree oil before applying it to your skin, as it can be irritating when used undiluted.
2. Honey: The Sweet Solution for Clear Skin
Honey isn’t just for sweetening your tea – it’s also a powerful natural remedy for acne. It contains hydrogen peroxide, which gives it its antibacterial properties.
A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine found that honey has broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. This makes it effective against various bacteria, including those that cause acne.
How to use:
- Apply a thin layer of raw, organic honey to clean skin
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
For an extra boost, try mixing honey with cinnamon to create a mask. Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that can enhance the acne-fighting power of honey.
DIY honey mask recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Apply to clean skin, leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Use this mask once or twice a week for best results.
3. Aloe Vera: Soothing Relief for Inflamed Skin
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and healing properties, making it an excellent natural remedy for acne-prone skin. It contains compounds like aloin and emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
A study found that combining aloe vera with tretinoin was more effective in treating acne than tretinoin alone.
How to use:
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf, or use a pure aloe vera gel product
- Apply a thin layer to clean the skin
- Leave on for 15-20 minutes or overnight
- Rinse off with cool water
Pro tip: Keep your aloe vera gel in the refrigerator for an extra cooling and soothing effect when applied to inflamed acne.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar: Balancing Your Skin’s pH
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural astringent that can help balance your skin’s pH and fight acne-causing bacteria. ACV contains acetic acid, which has been shown to have antibacterial properties. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that a lotion containing 5% ACV was effective in reducing acne lesions.
How to use:
- Mix equal parts ACV and water
- Apply to clean skin using a cotton pad
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes
- Rinse off with cool water
Start with once a day and see how your skin reacts. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to dilute the ACV even more.
Caution: While ACV can be effective, it’s important to dilute it properly to avoid skin irritation. Always do a patch test before applying it to your entire face.
DIY ACV toner recipe: Mix 1 part ACV with 3 parts witch hazel and a few drops of lavender essential oil. This combination provides the benefits of ACV with the added astringent properties of witch hazel and the soothing effects of lavender.
5. Green Tea: Antioxidant Power for Clear Skin
Green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals. In addition, the main antioxidant in green tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), has been shown to reduce sebum production and inflammation.
A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that EGCG can help reduce acne by modulating intracellular molecular targets and inhibiting p. acnes bacteria.
How to use:
- Brew a strong cup of green tea and let it cool
- Use as a toner by applying to clean skin with a cotton pad
- Alternatively, you can place cooled green tea bags directly on your cheeks for a soothing treatment
For an extra boost, try mixing green tea with honey to create a mask that combines the benefits of both ingredients.
6. Turmeric: The Golden Spice for Acne-Free Skin
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and for good reason. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
A study published in Phytotherapy Research found that curcumin can help reduce acne by inhibiting the growth of p. acnes bacteria and reducing inflammation.
How to use:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough honey or yogurt to form a paste
- Apply to clean skin, focusing on acne-prone areas
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
Caution: Turmeric can stain skin and clothing, so be careful when applying and rinsing off the mask.
Pro tip: To avoid staining your skin, try mixing turmeric with aloe vera gel instead of water. The aloe vera can help prevent staining while providing additional soothing benefits.
7. Lemon Juice: Citrus Power for Clearer Cheeks
Lemon juice contains citric acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that can help exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that AHAs can be effective in treating acne by promoting cell turnover and reducing inflammation.
How to use:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice and dilute it with equal parts water
- Apply to clean skin using a cotton pad
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes
- Rinse off with cool water
Caution: Lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always follow up with sunscreen if you’re heading outdoors.
DIY lemon toner recipe: Mix equal parts lemon juice and rose water. Rose water can help soothe the skin and balance its pH, while lemon juice provides its acne-fighting benefits.
8. Witch Hazel: Nature’s Astringent
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help tighten pores and reduce oil production. It contains tannins, which have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the Journal of Inflammation found that witch hazel can help reduce inflammation and skin damage caused by free radicals.
How to use:
- Apply witch hazel to a cotton pad
- Gently wipe over clean skin, focusing on acne-prone areas
- Follow with your regular moisturizer
Look for alcohol-free witch hazel to avoid drying out your skin.
Pro tip: For an extra soothing effect, try keeping your witch hazel in the refrigerator. The cool temperature can help reduce inflammation and provide relief to irritated skin.
9. Oatmeal: Gentle Exfoliation for Smoother Skin
Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliant that can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores without irritating your skin. It contains compounds called saponins, which have cleansing properties. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
How to use:
- Grind 1/4 cup of oatmeal into a fine powder
- Mix with enough water or honey to form a paste
- Gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
Use this scrub once or twice a week for smooth, refined-looking skin.
DIY oatmeal mask recipe: Mix ground oatmeal with yogurt and a teaspoon of honey. The lactic acid in yogurt provides gentle exfoliation, while honey adds antibacterial properties.
10. Yogurt: Probiotic Power for Acne-Free Cheeks
Yogurt contains probiotics that can help balance the skin’s microbiome. This potentially reduces acne-causing bacteria. Probiotics in yogurt can help balance the skin’s microbiome, which may help reduce acne.
A study published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology found that probiotics can help reduce inflammation and potentially improve acne when applied topically.
How to use:
- Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to clean the skin
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with cool water
For an extra boost, try mixing yogurt with honey or turmeric for added acne-fighting benefits.
11. Cucumber: Cooling Relief for Inflamed Acne
Cucumbers contain vitamin C and caffeic acid, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also have a high water content, which can help hydrate the skin.
A study published in the Archives of Dermatological Research found that cucumber extract can help reduce sebum production and inflammation in acne-prone skin.
How to use:
- Blend half a cucumber and strain the juice
- Apply the juice to your face using a cotton pad
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with cool water
For a quick and easy treatment, simply place cucumber slices directly on your cheeks for a cooling, soothing effect.
Pro tip: For an extra refreshing treat, try freezing cucumber slices before applying them to your skin. The cold temperature can help reduce inflammation and provide instant relief to irritated acne.
12. Baking Soda: Gentle Exfoliation for Smoother Cheeks
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, leading to smoother, clearer skin. It has a slightly alkaline pH, which can help neutralize acid on the skin’s surface. Its fine particles act as a gentle physical exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
How to use:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a paste
- Gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
- Follow with a moisturizer
Use this scrub no more than once or twice a week, as over-exfoliating can irritate your skin and potentially lead to more breakouts.
Caution: While baking soda can be effective, it’s important to use it sparingly. Its alkaline nature can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance if used too frequently. Always follow up with a pH-balancing toner and moisturizer after using a baking soda scrub.
13. Papaya: Enzyme-Rich Acne Fighter
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which has exfoliating properties. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies found that papaya extract can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
How to use:
- Mash a ripe papaya into a smooth paste
- Apply to clean skin, focusing on acne-prone areas
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
For an extra boost, try mixing papaya with honey or yogurt for added acne-fighting benefits.
DIY papaya mask recipe: Mix mashed papaya with a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of lemon juice. The honey adds antibacterial properties, while the lemon juice provides additional exfoliation and brightening effects.
14. Essential Oil Blend: Customized Acne Treatment
Creating a custom blend of essential oils can provide a powerful, natural acne treatment tailored to your skin’s needs. Note that different essential oils offer various benefits for acne-prone skin. For example:
- Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties
- Lavender oil can help reduce inflammation and stress (which can trigger acne)
- Frankincense oil may help reduce the appearance of acne scars
How to use:
- Mix 2-3 drops each of tea tree, lavender, and frankincense oils with a carrier oil like jojoba or rosehip oil
- Apply to clean skin using a cotton swab or your fingertips
- Leave on overnight or for a few hours
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
Always do a patch test before using new essential oils, and dilute them properly to avoid skin irritation.
When to See a Dermatologist?
There are several key reasons why you should consider seeing a dermatologist for acne treatment, including:
- Over-the-counter treatments have not worked after 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
- You have moderate to severe inflammatory acne, like painful red pimples, nodules, or cysts.
- Your acne is leaving scars or dark spots. Seeing a dermatologist early on can help prevent permanent skin damage from recurring breakouts.
- You develop acne after starting a new medication. Medication-triggered acne often needs adjusted treatment plans from a specialist.
- Over-the-counter options have irritated your skin or made acne worse. A dermatologist can help determine the right gentle, customized regimen for your skin type and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How long does it take to see results from these natural remedies?
Results can vary depending on your skin type and the severity of your acne. Generally, you might start to see some improvement in a few weeks with consistent use. However, for significant changes, it may take several months. Be patient and consistent with your chosen treatments.
2. Can these remedies completely eliminate acne scars?
While these remedies can help improve the appearance of acne and reduce inflammation, they may not completely eliminate deep acne scars. For severe scarring, you may need to consult with a dermatologist for professional treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy.
3. Are these remedies safe for all skin types?
Most of these remedies are gentle and suitable for various skin types. However, if you have sensitive skin or any skin conditions, it’s always best to do a patch test first and consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns. Everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another.
4. Can I combine multiple remedies?
Yes, you can combine different remedies, but be careful not to overdo it. Start with one or two and gradually introduce others if needed. Always listen to your skin and discontinue use if you experience any irritation. It’s often best to use different treatments on alternate days to avoid overwhelming your skin.
5. How can I prevent cheek acne in the future?
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine, keeping your face clean, managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can all help prevent future breakouts. Additionally, be mindful of what touches your face (like phone screens and pillowcases) and consider factors like hormonal changes that might influence your skin.
