Game World!: does apple cider vinegar help with clear skin?

The Latest Apple Cider Vinegar Trend

Not just a tasty salad dressing

Apple Cider Vinegar has been used as a folk remedy to treat everything from warts to dandruff. But can this multi-tasking vinegar tone and soothe your skin too?

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

The amber-coloured liquid is usually made using apples, yeast and mother of vinegar. Mother of vinegar is a jelly-like cellulose substance that combines with the oxygen in warm air to cause fermentation. The bacteria in the mother of vinegar works together with the yeast to ferment the sugars in the apples. The result is a sour often cloudy liquid.

Handpicked content: 5 benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar with The Mother

Can Apple Cider Vinegar soothe sunburnt skin?

Believed to restore the balance of your skin’s pH levels, apple cider vinegar can be added to baths to help cool and ease the soreness of sunburn. Simply add 200ml to a warm bath and soak in it for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, saturate a towel or flannel with a solution of 100ml of vinegar combined with one litre of water and apply gently to any sunburned areas.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar a suitable facial toner?

As s natural astringent, it can be used in place of your usual toner to tighten, clarify and refresh your skin. Add one tablespoon to 400ml of water to create your own DIY toner. Once a day, soak a cotton pad in the solution and wipe over your face after cleansing.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar ease shaving bumps?

Causing itching and irritation, small bumps form on the skin from ingrown hairs. The acetic acid in Apple Cider Vinegar can soften skin to help release the hairs. Dampen a cotton pad with undiluted Apple Cider Vinegar and wipe over the problem area.

Apple cider vinegar is not only great for health, but it is also very beneficial for your skin. Read along to know the skin benefits of apple cider vi...

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benefits skin apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is known for many benefits, including promoting weight loss and improving your digestion. But, did you know it can also benefit your skin? Yes, you read it right! Apple cider vinegar is rich in citric, malic, and amino acids which are beneficial for your skin. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals which help in treating a lot of skin problems. Read along to know the skin benefits of apple cider vinegar:

Treats Acne And Pimples

apple cider vinegar skin benefits

One of the most common skin problems we face is acne and pimples. Apple cider vinegar is the best product for stubborn acne and pimples. Applying ACV on your pimples and acne helps you get a better, clear skin. This is because of the antibacterial and antifungal properties of Apple cider vinegar Which keep the bacteria away and makes your skin clear.

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READ MORE: These Natural Remedies For Fair And Glowing Skin Actually Work

Makes The Skin Soft

Apple cider vinegar is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help in maintaining a balance in the skin. It makes the skin soft and smooth. The alpha hydroxyl acid in ACV clears out all the dead skin cells and this promotes the growth of new skin cells.

Reduces The Visibility Of Wrinkles

apple cider vinegar benefits

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Apple cider vinegar is your go-to product for young looking skin. ACV has alpha hydroxyl acid which removes dead cells from your skin and makes it look younger. Apply ACV on your wrinkles for 30 minutes and then wash off with cool water for results. You will see how ACV works wonders in reducing the visibility of your wrinkles.

Tones Your Skin

If you struggle with too oily or too dry skin then ACV is the best remedy for you. Apple cider vinegar tones up your skin by removing excess oil from your skin and balances its pH. A balance in the skin's pH level prevents it from becoming too oily or too dry.

Provides Relief From Sunburn

apple cider vinegar benefits for the skin

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, ACV works great for sunburns. It helps in restoring the PH level of the skin and provides you relief from sunburn. You can mix half cup apple cider vinegar with 4 cups of water and apply this mix on the affected area. This helps in healing the sunburn faster and provides relief from pain.

Magic In A Bottle

Apple Cider Vinegar is the answer to all your problems. It has been used by many around the globe since years and is a tried and tested success. There are a lot of things that ACV can be used for, it is an all rounder product and can easily be found in your local grocery store. Make sure to buy ACV that contains 'the mother' which means it is unfiltered and contains strands of proteins, enzymes and friendly bacteria that are really good for you.

If you've never used ACV before and want to know how and for what can it be used, here is a list that you will find helpful.

1. Clear Skin

Using a mix of a little ACV with water is an excellent toner for our skin and helps reduce acne and age spots by restoring our skin's natural pH. The acidic properties of ACV helps balance our skin's outer layer by removing excess oil and dirt.

2. Weight Loss

The weight loss effects of ACV are seen due to the presence of acetic acid, which interferes with our body’s ability to digest starch. Due to this, less amount of food is broken down into calories and absorbed in the bloodstream. Mix a spoon of ACV with water and take it once a day to see results.

3. Get Rid Of Dandruff

We've all had trouble with Dandruff atleast once in our lives and for some it is more often than not. If you've tried everything in your hands and still not been able to say goodbye to your dandruff forever, here is Apple Cider Vinegar to your rescue. The acidity of ACV does not allow the fungus, which helps to dandruff flourish to stay on your scalp. Just, mix one part of ACV and one part water water into a spray bottle and spray it on your hair and scalp after shampooing. Let it sit there for 15 mins after which you can rinse your hair. Repeat this 2-3 times a week until you see results.

4. Sunburn soother

Apple cider vinegar's acidic properties will help balance your skin’s pH levels, and allow your sunburn to cool down. It will not only sooth it for the time being but also act in treating the sunburn for good. All you need to do is add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your bath, and lay in it while it neutralizes the burn and makes you forget about your worries.

6. Foot Deodorizer

Soak your feet in a mixture of water and ACV to gain the benifits of the antifungal properties and get rid of smelly feet.

7. Detox & Digestion

Apple cider vinegar is full of benificial enzymes and good bacteria, which help to detox your body. The probiotic properties allow your stomach to better digest the food which relieving constipation, helping release waste and other toxic materials from the body.

While a skincare routine and our various trusted beauty products have their own loyal place in our lives, sometimes they need a little boost to function better. And what provides this boost? Well, you don't need to look very far, just take a walk to your kitchen cabinet! And one such ingredient that has umpteen skin benefits is apple cider vinegar. From skin brightening and clearing out acne, it is a skin superhero and you really need to make apple cider vinegar a regular part of your skincare.

Since ACV has so many benefits, not just for your skin, but also for your health, it has become one of those buzz-worthy ingredients in the beauty circuit. When used topically, the amazing skincare benefits of ACV will totally blow your mind. From improving skin’s barrier function to protecting it from environmental aggressors, this is one beauty ingredient you need to start using ASAP if you don’t already. Read on to find out about the various benefits of this amazing ingredient and the different ways in which you can use it.

1. Works as a toner

2. Helps cleanse your skin

3. Fights acne

4. Helps fight body odour

5. Soothes sunburn

6. Has anti-ageing properties

1. Works as a toner

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Works as a toner

Do you use a toner in your skincare routine every day? If not, we recommend you start right now. Using a toner every day helps tighten your pores, balance the pH levels of your skin and helps your skincare products absorb better. A toner enriched with apple cider vinegar does all of these things, but its benefits don’t end there. Its astringent properties help brighten skin and the acidic properties are perfect to keep problems like acne at bay. An apple cider vinegar toner also wipes away all the impurities and harmful bacteria that your cleanser may have left behind.

Step 01: In a spray bottle, combine one part apple cider vinegar and two parts water.

Step 02: Shake the contents together until they blend into one another. Your toner is ready.

Step 03: To use, start by washing your face using an oil-based cleanser followed by your usual face wash.

Step 04: Take this mixture on a cotton pad and wipe it all over your face and neck. Alternatively, you can even spray it directly on your face and allow it to sink in for about a minute.

2. Helps cleanse your skin

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Helps cleanse your skin

If you want your face to look and feel squeaky clean, then you need to add an ACV face wash to your regimen. But this does not mean you need to go buy yourself an ACV-enriched product. All you need to do is add a few drops of ACV to your usual face wash. This little trick will definitely show you improvements in your skin. The apple cider vinegar in your face wash will work over time to ensure that all signs of dirt, debris, sweat and oil are eliminated to prevent acne and other skin infections.

3. Fights acne

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Fights acne

Did you know that another great benefit of apple cider vinegar for your skin is that it very effectively helps fight acne? Apple cider vinegar has amazing antibacterial properties that help fight acne-causing bacteria and keep your skin free from random breakouts. Additionally, coupled with anti-inflammatory properties, apple cider vinegar helps calm inflammation and dries out pimples, if any. But it doesn’t end there. Apple cider vinegar is a natural source of AHA and therefore helps to gently yet effectively exfoliate your skin, improve skin texture and make your skin appear smooth and glowing.

4. Helps fight body odour

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Helps fight body odour

We already know how apple cider vinegar helps balance the pH levels of our skin. And when it comes to fighting body odour, this is half the battle won, as an unbalanced pH level is what contributes majorly to BO. Additionally, ACV is enriched with amazing antifungal properties and helps inhibit the growth of bacteria in your body. Since ACV kills this odour causing bacteria, sweaty, smelly underarms is a thing of the past. Simply use a roll-on deodorant after washing your underarms with a mixture of ACV and water, and you are good to go.

5. Soothes sunburn

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Soothes sunburn

One of the best ways to use apple cider vinegar for your skin is to use it to treat sunburn. The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar help calm and soothe the skin, and therefore is a great remedy for sunburnt and inflamed skin. But sunburnt skin is usually pretty sensitive and applying apple cider vinegar directly could cause it a lot of damage. It is best to dilute this properly before application. Simply add a cup of apple cider vinegar to a bucket full of water before you take a bath with it to ensure it provides amazing results.

6. Has anti-ageing properties

Benefits is apple cider vinegar - Has anti-ageing properties

Apple cider vinegar is considered to be a healing elixir. It not only has amazing properties for this skin, but offers so many health benefits that we couldn’t possibly count them all. Apple cider vinegar contains flavonoids, phytochemicals like quercetin and catechin, and carotenoids. These nutrients deliver amazing anti-ageing properties to your skin and keep it looking youthful.

FAQs about Apple Cider Vinegar:

Q. Is it safe to use apple cider vinegar directly?

A. No, it is not. Apple cider vinegar is extremely potent and it is not advisable to use it directly as it could end up damaging your skin. Always dilute ACV with water and then use it to ensure that it doesn’t have any harmful effects on your skin.

Q. Can I use apple cider vinegar on my face every day?

A. Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar on your skin everyday if you do not have sensitive skin. Just remember to properly dilute it in a ratio of 1:2 with water and it is completely safe to use.

Q. Does apple cider vinegar remove dark spots from the face?

A. ACV is brimming with some awesome skin-loving properties and helps to very effectively deal with dark spots. All you need to do is soak a cotton pad in ACV and apply it to the affected area to see quick results.

Apple cider vinegar has long been hailed for its potential health benefits – and now it’s being lauded as a wonder tonic for skin, too.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a modern pantry staple and traditional medicine ingredient – and is now being embraced in natural skincare.

While many of the health claims around ACV are debated, experts say the skin benefits of this wonder ingredient are more straightforward.

Here’s everything you need to know about apple cider vinegar and your skin:

1. It’s a natural alternative to chemical exfoliants

Dermatologist Dr Cara McDonald says apple cider vinegar is comparable to liquid exfoliants and acids on the market, in its ability to promote clearer, brighter skin.

“Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid and malic acid, which have some similar properties to alpha-hydroxyacids (AHAs), many of which are also derived from plants,” she says.

“Acids, in the right concentration, will exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, improving skin texture and congestion, and also have some antibacterial and anti-pigmentation effects.”

Working parts: The main active skincare ingredients for glowing skin

2. It can also be used as a toner

Like fellow astringent witch hazel, a watered-down version of ACV can be used as a natural toner.

“I really enjoy using apple cider vinegar as a skincare ingredient,” says Shahrzad Kahrobai, founder of eco-beauty blog The Spot Beauty.

“It’s a great multitasking beauty staple that benefits many skin types and concerns. I love using it a gentle exfoliant or toner – applied to a cotton pad and swept across the face and neck area to help decongest pores, minimise blackheads as well as excess oil.”

3. It shouldn’t be used excessively on skin

Because of apple cider vinegar’s potency in pure form, Dr McDonald doesn’t recommend daily use.

“Much like other acids used on the skin, you can have too much of a good thing,” she says.

Most dermatologists and aestheticians suggest using a chemical exfoliant once or twice a week, and ACV should be treated no differently.

“Too little and the products will be ineffective, whereas too much can be irritating or even harmful,” Dr McDonald says.

Do note that topical use of ACV has been linked to chemical burns.

Rule of law: The 8 commandments for healthy skin

4. ‘Natural’ doesn’t always mean better for your skin

While ACV falls under the natural skincare category, that doesn’t mean it is definitely safe for your skin.

“Consumers have been incorrectly led to believe that ‘natural’ skincare is better for both them and the environment,” Dr McDonald says.

But she says it’s a mistake to believe “natural” or “organic” products are safer and will never cause allergy or reactions.

“Some of the most severe allergic and irritant reactions are caused by plant-based ingredients,” she says.

When shopping for natural, organic apple cider vinegar, look for a product containing “the mother”, which forms in raw organic vinegar ferments.

Fact vs fiction: 6 common beauty myths debunked

5. It can’t work miracles alone

While there’s a place for natural skincare, Dr McDonald says it is important to consult a dermal clinician if you’re battling major skin concerns.

These skin issues tend to require medication, clinical-strength products and more targeted treatments.

“If you want to optimise your skin, see a highly trained dermal clinician who can target your skincare to your personal wants and needs,” Dr McDonald says.

“I always suggest starting with the basics and building up your skincare routine with one new product at a time.

“This way, if you have any problems or reactions, it’s easy to pinpoint the culprit.”

Written by Charlotte Brundrett.

Whether you’re using apple cider vinegar for clear skin or its well-known body detox, ACV is one of the most searched health topics online today. If you have ever scrolled through a list of natural remedies on the internet, you would know of this supposed elixir for perfect skin. So, are the apple cider vinegar benefits for skin as faithful as proponents claim them to be? Let’s find out.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin Care

The production of apple cider vinegar involves the fermentation of crushed apples. The process changes sugar from the apples to acetic acid, the acclaimed workhorse of the vinegar. Not only does it give the vinegar its intense taste, but it also contributes to its pharmacological properties.

Many people consume an ACV supplement orally in pill or capsule form, as ACV shots with honey, or as delicious gummy vitamins. Vinegar is globally renowned for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antidiabetic benefits. These attributes have valuable applications for treating acid reflux, losing weight, relieving gout pain, and as it pertains to this topic, skincare. (1)

What Makes Healthy Skin?

In its simplest form, a healthy lifestyle makes healthy skin. What you eat, what you expose your skin to, and how you take care of it are the three deciding factors for improving skin health. Here are a few tips to naturally maintain fresh skin:

Eat foods rich in antioxidants, mainly fruits, and vegetables.

Stick to a balanced diet that supplies each nutrient to your body.

Protect yourself from UV radiation and excessive inflammation. Always wear sunscreen and cover your face in the sun.

Avoid frequent exposure to alkaline substances like soaps and detergents.

Moisturize your skin regularly.

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Skin

Is apple cider vinegar good for the skin? Well, it depends upon what type of skin you have. If it works well on normal skin types, it could be a nightmare for the sensitive. We will elaborate on its reported disadvantages later as we discuss different skin issues.

Generally, the anecdotally observed benefits of ACV for skin include:

Balances pH levels

Removes skin tags

Reduces visual aging

Exfoliates your skin

Cures sunburn wounds

Heals Acne Scars

Acne scars form as a result of inflammation in the acne blemishes. The swelling may cause a breakdown in the follicle wall, allowing contents to leak to surrounding tissues. Shallow lesions are quick to heal, but deeper penetration may leave a permanent mark. These discolored blemishes on the skin are called acne scars.

HOW TO GET RID OF ACNE + DARK SPOTS (APPLE CIDER VINEGAR)

Alpha-hydroxy and acetic acid in the apple cider vinegar grant it anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Thus, studies often list vinegar as an alternative home remedy for the treatment of acne. Moreover, the role of alpha-hydroxy acids in the treatment of dead skin cells has been studied and concluded with positive results. (2, 3)

The Middlesex University London has also presented reports of high antimicrobial activity in apple cider vinegar. While the study does not directly include bacteria responsible for acne, it shows positive implications for dermatological dysfunctions. (4)

Read More: Apple Cider Vinegar for Gut Health

Sunburn and Age Spots

Excessive exposure to UV radiation, be it the sun or artificial lighting, can cause the skin to redden and become sensitive. This inflammatory reaction, which appears to be the burning of the outer layer of skin, is called sunburn.

ACV may be touted for its numerous health benefits, but no direct reports claim its effectiveness against healing sunburn. However, studies have managed to prove its antimicrobial activity, specifically against burn wounds and tissue damage.

The University of Birmingham conducted one such study, and J R Army Med Corps another. Both credited acetic acid, a major component of ACV, as an effective agent against skin-infecting microbes. (5, 6)

Additionally, ACV’s proven antimicrobial capacity may help fight age spots from excessive sun exposure.

Face Wrinkles

As the human body ages, the skin ceases to produce collagen, the protein responsible for strength and elasticity. With lessened collagen production, environmental toxins and dehydration result in thinning down the skin and causing wrinkles.

A recent study focused on polyphenols in apples concluded its positive effects on the anti-aging process. Polyphenols are organic compounds that alter reactive oxygen species to fuel aging. (7)

Eczema and Psoriasis

Dermatological dysfunctions like eczema and psoriasis appear as red, inflamed patches on the skin surface. They are both triggered by stress-inducing substances, namely, soaps and detergents.

An animal study from 2016 managed to produce a potential for topical acids, vinegar included as a treatment for atopic dermatitis (eczema). Skin barrier integrity strengthened, and there was a significant balance in the skin pH levels. (8)

However, a clinical trial performed on humans at the University of Virginia produced contradictory results. Twenty-two subjects with atopic dermatitis used ACV soaks for 14 days. It was concluded that vinegar had no significant impact on curing the skin. In fact, skin irritations were observed in most subjects. (9)

Apple cider vinegar has demonstrated antimicrobial capacity against dermatological dysfunctions. One could assume it as an effective home treatment for the said diseases. But, the lack of scientific evidence and the unimpressive results posed by human trials, compared to that of animals, emphasize the need for further research in the field.

Skin Tag Removal

A skin tag is a small overhanging of benign skin growth. They are noncancerous, but people often like them to be removed for aesthetic purposes.

Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy in this case. In theory, the acid quotient from the vinegar is believed to help attack the tissue surrounding the tag, weakening it for removal. However, more than often, the acidity triggers irritation and is discouraged for use. (10)

Reported accidents due to the rumored benefits of ACV make it necessary to put both sides of the coin afront. A 14-year-old girl was found with two nose erosions after repeated attempts to remove moles through ACV. In another case, an 8-year old suffered severe chemical burns as a result of applying ACV soak on his knee. (11, 12)

Skin Fungus

Skin fungus is a rash, discoloration, or an itchy patch caused by fungi. Since they are mostly harmless, there is a tendency to use home remedies as a cure. In this regard, ACV’s antimicrobial and antifungal properties may help when applied topically, similar to that of the well-known turmeric benefits. (13, 14)

Rosacea

Rosacea appears in the form of visible blood vessels and pus-filled bumps on the skin, which may swell up over time. It is often confused with acne or psoriasis due to similar chronic-inflammatory effects.

However, rosacea causes serious skin vulnerabilities. Therefore, the acidity in apple cider vinegar is highly discouraged for the condition.

Studies only prove ACV’s antimicrobial capacity and effectiveness against atopic dermatitis. Patients with rosacea experience highly impaired skin barriers. Thus, none of the studies may justify the use here. Additionally, one must also keep the reported burn cases under consideration.

More Reading: Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Hair

Safety Tips when Using ACV for Skin

Whether you use it directly or in the form of a toner, make sure you dilute it with sufficient water. Otherwise, you may suffer burn wounds.

Always use a raw, unfiltered ACV for the skin. If not, make sure you go through the ingredients to avoid any allergies or infections from the added preservatives.

If you are using ACV to treat skin or yeast infections, let it be only the mild ones. Report severe dysfunctions to a certified dermatologist.

Keep the application time low. ACV is highly acidic, so it will readily react with your skin. Do not leave it on for too long lest it shows side effects.

If ingesting orally during a weight loss or detox routine, the maximum dosage is 15-30 ml of apple cider vinegar per day.

Final Thoughts on Apple Cider Vinegar for Clear Skin

Now you know the full picture. While there are apple cider vinegar benefits for the skin, there are equal side effects, too. It comes down to adequate concentration and careful usage—and of course, your skin type! Good luck achieving that shining, spotless skin!

The versatile wonders of apple cider vinegar have really made the mainstream rounds in recent years. Beyond its manifold and delicious uses in the kitchen, many people drink apple cider vinegar on its own, or diluted with water, to aid digestive health (thanks to good bacteria your gut loves) and even regulate blood sugar (by improving insulin function, studies have found).

But the benefits of apple cider vinegar inside the body are just the start; it's also used topically for a wide range of skin, scalp, and hair benefits. Seriously, people swear by this stuff to improve skin issues of all kinds, from skin dullness to acne scars and age spots. And it's not just another new skincare fad: "Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years," says Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD, a board certified dermatologist and founder of MDhairmixtress.com. "In fact, it's said that Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used ACV to help disinfect and treat skin wounds more than 2,000 years ago."

Wondering if you should try using ACV for healthier skin? Here, Dr. Gathers breaks down everything you need to know, from ACV's healing properties to common misconceptions and mistakes to watch out for.

Common Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin

"Many claim ACV can help [alleviate] eczema and acne, fade fine lines, and make skin appear brighter and more youthful," Gathers says. "People use it as a toner for the skin and to help treat acne prone areas."

But Dr. Gathers does caution that, despite the number of people who've fallen in love with it, these claims are purely anecdotal. "There is actually no good scientific study to prove the skin-healing claims of ACV," she says. "Before jumping to ACV, I'd recommend getting evaluated by your dermatologist first."

How Exactly Does Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit Skin?

Its composition can have many potential benefits for skin. "ACV has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can help kill bacteria and yeast on the skin related to conditions like acne, eczema, and dandruff," Gathers explains. ACV's high acidity level may also help some skin conditions (but note well: Its high acidity makes it necessary to dilute with water). To get a little technical: "Healthy skin lies on the acidic end of the pH spectrum. However, people with eczema can have an elevated skin pH, which can compromise the skin barrier and make it more prone to infections. Since ACV is acidic, it may help restore some of the skin's natural pH," Gathers says.

Beyond treating more troublesome skin conditions, ACV is coveted for more general cosmetic virtues too. "It contains citric acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) used to exfoliate, brighten, and smooth [your complexion], as well as polyphenolic antioxidants, which might help improve the skin's appearance," she says.

How to Know If It’s Safe to Use on Your Skin

Before you jump right in and add an apple cider vinegar toner or soak to your skin care regimen, know this: ACV is not a cure-all, and might not be for everyone. "While it may be helpful for some people's skin issues, it's important to know there haven't been any good studies to support the claims people make about using ACV as a skin treatment." Gathers says. "Always check with your dermatologist first. ACV is acidic, and there are reported cases of people having severe skin irritation and even burns on the skin using it."

If you do get the go-ahead from a doctor, here's how to apply apple cider vinegar gently and safely to your skin, according to Dr. Gathers.

Test It First

Always do a spot test first on a discreet area (think: under your jawline) before swiping it onto your entire face.

ACV Facial Toner

To help clear excess oil or relieve acne-prone skin, try this toner solution. Dilute 1 tablespoon ACV in 2 cups of water. Using a cotton ball or round, swab the mixture gently over your skin, then rinse. "Don't go all in right away," Gathers suggests. "Start by using it two to three days a week to see how you react."

ACV for Eczema

Mix 1 cup ACV into a tub of lukewarm bath water. Soak the affected areas for 15 to 20 minutes then rinse off with cool water. Follow with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.

Apple cider vinegar has become one of the darlings of natural skincare. With purported benefits like brighter, clearer skin, can you blame anyone for risking smelling like a salad dressing if it means better skin? We've definitely done weirder things in the name of beauty. Even skincare experts agree that this fermented liquid can do great things for your skin. "Apple Cider Vinegar is not only famous as your favorite salad dressing and as a fat-melting elixir," says dermatologist Michele Green, MD.

"It also has lots of skincare benefits."

Because it can be found in your kitchen, the pantry staple may seem innocuous to try in a DIY skincare recipe. But before you go pouring the bottle all over your face, find out what skin experts have to say about the potential benefits and side effects as well as the best way to apply apple cider vinegar. (Hint: pouring the bottle all over your face is not recommended).

MEET THE EXPERT

Michele Green, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Joshua Zeichner, MD, is Mount Sinai Hospital's director of cosmetic and clinical research.

Sophia Roe is a natural-beauty expert, holistic chef, and member of The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Council.

Below, expert-approved ways to use apple cider vinegar for skin.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Type of ingredient: Exfoliator

Potential benefits: Balances pH, chemically exfoliates, and antibacterial.

Who should use it: In general, people with oily and acneic skin.

How often can you use it: The use of apple cider vinegar depends on what product and concentration you're using it in.

Works well with: Anti-inflammatories.

Don’t use with: Other acids, retinoids.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar (aka ACV) is derived from apples and made by a process of fermentation. It comes in a liquid form and when used topically, it's commonly applied as a toner but can also act as a spot treatment. "[Apple cider vinegar] naturally has an acidic pH and can help balance the pH of the outer skin layer," says Zeichner. As a vinegar, it contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial and keratolytic properties, and it also contains malic acid, a gentle chemical exfoliant.1

ACV for skin

MICHELA BUTTIGNOL/BYRDIE

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin

Although there's not enough scientific evidence to support most of the claims made about apple cider vinegar, in theory, its properties could potentially provide the following skin benefits:

Balances the skin's pH: Because apple cider vinegar can help balance the pH of the outer skin layer, according to Zeichner, it may keep your skin functioning optimally—that is, doing things like producing the right amount of oil and dealing with acne-causing bacteria.

Exfoliates: "Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid, which is similar to alpha-hydroxy acid," Green says. "Malic acid works well on acne-prone skin as it gently exfoliates to unclog the pores2 and eliminate bacteria."

Fights blackheads and acne: According to Green, apple cider vinegar, which has antibacterial assets, can also be mixed with baking soda and water to exfoliate and help diminish blackheads.

Improves hyperpigmentation: Green says the malic acid in apple cider vinegar may help clear up any hyperpigmentation issues like dark spots. "Malic acid is known for its ability to decrease the production of melanin," she says. "Melanin is what gives the skin its pigmentation; therefore, malic acid is great at improving hyperpigmentation."3

Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar

apple cider vinegar

TAWNI BANNISTER FOR BYRDIE

Because the chemical exfoliant malic acid is milder than most AHAs, Green notes that it's suitable for all skin types—just make sure to patch test any new products on your skin beforehand. Other components of apple cider vinegar can be irritating and drying to the skin, and studies show the acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar can cause chemical burns.4 An easy way to avoid this is just to dilute the formula more than is recommended if it ends up being too harsh.

How to Use It

Apple cider vinegar is very strong and, as we mentioned, can cause chemical burns. For this reason, it should always be diluted with water first before applying it to the skin—generally, a ratio of one part apple cider vinegar to four parts water.

Like many, Roe recommends using it as a toner. "It’s a beauty product–saturated world we live in," Roe explains, "So many are using multiple cleansers, masks, etc. Over time, this can disrupt the skin's natural defenses." Once that happens, you open your skin up to things like breakouts and dry skin. "Using ACV as a quick toner is a great way to restore the skin's natural defenses, remove excess dirt, and help fight against acne,” she says.

Cosmetic chemist Ginger King, CEO of Grace Kingdom Beauty, concurs. "It's been used as a toner due to its acidity," she says, "and dilution is recommended, especially for sensitive skin."

"Apple cider vinegar is remarkable at fighting acne-causing bacteria and helps to reduce the appearance of both pimples and scars," Valerie Grandury, founder of Odacité, says. Her recommendation is to use it as an overnight spot treatment by mixing a bit of it with a powder mask like Odacité Synergie Immediate Skin Perfecting Mask ($64) until it forms a poultice, then applying it to your blemish and leaving it on overnight.

The Best Products With Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar

Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar $5.00

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This is just your standard bottle of apple cider vinegar—good for drinking or use in at-home skincare remedies.

Resurfacing Treatment Toner with Apple Cider

Boscia Resurfacing Treatment Toner with Apple Cider $28.00

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Made for people with oily and problematic skin, this toner is extremely potent thanks to its inclusion of not only apple cider vinegar but glycolic and salicylic acids. If you have lots of acne or need a more intense toner, this is a good option to look into.

dpHUE ACV Rinese

dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse $35.00

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Apple cider vinegar isn't the kind of ingredient that needs to be reserved for your face—this rinse from dpHUE is a beauty editor favorite. Although some choose to make their own rinses from ACV, this one is fortified with aloe and lavender meant to repair and cleanse the scalp. It also doesn't strip your scalp of the natural oils that keep it healthy.

apple cider vinegar resurfacing peel pads

Volition Beauty Apple Cider Vinegar Resurfacing Peel Pads $64.00

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Dermatological peels aren't one-size-fits-all, but when it comes to peel pads we too often forget that. Luckily, these apple cider vinegar-based peel pads are meant for every day, so they're gentle enough that if you have sensitive skin you can use them occasionally. You should start with once or twice a week, as the brand recommends, but if you have tougher skin you can go up from there.

Kristina Holey + Marie Veronique Intensive Repair Serum

Kristina Holey + Marie Veronique Intensive Repair Serum $90.00

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Marie Veronique is an esthetician-favorite brand and kind of a queen of serums. So her collaboration with skincare specialist Kristina Holey comes as no surprise but is exciting regardless. This particular serum contains AHAs, BHAs, and vitamins B5 and B3 to decongest your skin and bring it to tip-top shape.

GERANIUM PALMAROSA face toner

Meow Meow Tweet Geranium Palmarosa Face Toner $24.00

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Meow Meow Tweet is another natural brand that picked up on apple cider vinegar's potential detoxifying, exfoliating, and anti-acneic properties—which make it perfect for use in toners.

blue majik face foam unscented cleanser with azelaic acid

Graydon Face Foam $33.00

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This foam cleanser uses apple cider vinegar and willow bark to cleanse your skin gently but effectively and manages to balance the pH of your skin while doing so.

Which drink is good for skin?

Morning drinks play an important role in body metabolism and the stomach-cleansing process. Starting the day with sipping one or two litres of water helps clear all metabolic waste from the body and, in turn, leads to clear skin. Similarly, there are other morning drinks that are helpful for getting clear and healthy skin for both men and women. Dr Stuti Khare Shukla shares five essential drinks that you can start your day with for a glowing and healthy skin.

Water Therapy

Health

Image: pexels.com

Drinking a good amount of water gives wonderful results. Our body consists of 75 per cent water in the form of fluids, and water has several functions that keep skin clean and healthy; dehydration, on the other hand, makes our skin dry and itchy. Consuming an average of 4.5 to 5.5 litres of water daily boosts your body with minerals and oxygen carriers, releases all toxins from it, and results in maintaining the electrolyte balance of the body with skin moisturisers, preventing acne.

Honey And Lemon Water

Health

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Add two to three spoons of honey and a spoon of lemon juice to water as this acts as an electrolyte and produces antioxidants and anti-ageing components. It helps in cleaning out harmful toxins from your body and also helps in weight loss. While honey has anti-ageing nutrients that keep your skin moisturised, lemon contains vitamin C that helps in new cell and skin rejuvenation.

Fruit Juices

Health

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Fruits are rich in vitamins and micronutrients. Fruits like carrots, beetroots, pomegranate and even vegetables like sweet potato have rich minerals and vitamins that help in preventing acne and boost healthy skin. Carrot and beetroot contain vitamin A that prevents acne, wrinkles and pigmentation, and helps maintain healthy skin, Beetroot juice provides good blood circulation and keeps skin healthy. Even salads, of tomatoes and cucumbers, can also prevent acne if these salads are included in one’s regular diet.

Green Tea

Beauty

Image: pexels.com

If you are a tea lover, add green tea or lemon tea to your diet. It prevents acne and contains vitamin C along with other nutrients that keep skin naturally healthy and glowing.

Turmeric Milk

Health

Image: Shutterstock

Turmeric is a traditional and Ayurvedic medicine that acts as an antibiotic and antiviral agent. It is rich in antioxidants that retard the ageing process. Adding one spoon of turmeric to milk or hot water every morning can give good results for healthy skin.

Does water clear your skin?

How much water do you drink each day?

If you’re not drinking at least eight full glasses a day, you’re not drinking enough, and that’s a major problem.

Staying properly hydrated is necessary for your overall health. Not only does water play an important role in your digestion and circulation, but it’s also vital for your skin’s health and beauty.

Water helps you from the inside out.

For your skin’s sake, it’s one of the easiest and best beauty treatments you can do. No, you might not be able to get rid of all your favorite beauty products just because you’re drinking more water, but it will definitely help.

Water and Your Skin

Your skin is an organ.

In fact, it’s the largest organ in your body, and it’s mostly made up of water. Without water, your skin can’t function at its best. If your skin doesn’t get enough water, not only will it become dry, tight, and flaky, but it will also become even more prone to aging.

The truth is that your body loses large quantities of water every day, so if you don’t replace it by drinking more water, your skin will suffer the consequences. It’s easy to see the visible difference that hydration can make for your skin.

Still not convinced?

Check out these 10 amazing skin benefits from drinking more water.

Fewer Wrinkles

The more hydrated you stay, the fewer wrinkles and fine lines you’ll see. Water helps your skin maintain moisture, which increases your elasticity. The more elastic your skin, the fewer wrinkles you’ll see.

Improved Complexion

Drinking enough water can help you combat a variety of skin issues including psoriasis and eczema.

It does this by helping your digestive system flush out toxins from the body. This, in turn, will improve your complexion for healthy and glowing skin. In addition, one study by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that drinking two cups of water increased blood flow to the skin, which can help even out your skin tone and complexion.

Reduced Puffiness

There’s no doubt that our skin can swell sometimes. Most often, this is because our body is retaining water.

Why do we retain water?

Because we’re dehydrated and our body is protecting us. If you want to reduce puffiness and swelling and smooth out your skin, make sure you’re drinking enough water.

Faster Healing

If you’ve ever gotten a sunburn, you know how painful it can be and how long it can last. The good news is that drinking more water can help speed up the healing process for your sunburn. Yes, you’ll still want to have plenty of Aloe Vera on hand, but drinking more water can also help.

Clear Acne

Adult acne is incredibly common.

In fact, it’s estimated that between 40-55% of the adult population age 20-40 has acne. It’s a common skin issue that can be helped by drinking enough water. Water can help flush toxins from the skin and shrink your pores, making them less likely to clog and cause a zit.

Slows Aging

Beyond wrinkles, drinking enough water can help keep your skin plumper, which can slow the aging process. Plump skin also helps hide current signs of aging, so that any wrinkles you already have are minimized.

Smaller Pores

Our pores can get clogged and enlarged throughout the day. The more water you drink, the better balance of oil and water on the surface of your skin. This can help reduce your pore size, decrease acne breakouts, and reduce blemishes.

Reduced Itchiness

When you have dry skin, it can crack, flake, and itch.

It’s easy to solve this problem by drinking enough water and hydrating your skin. When you stay hydrated, your skin is less likely to crack and become itchy.

Tighter Skin

Do you have sagging skin from weight loss or from aging?

A great way to help tighten the skin around your jawline, stomach, arms, and legs is to drink more water. That’s because water helps improve skin elasticity, making it bounce back from sagging.

pH Balance

If you have problematic skin, you know that maintaining a healthy pH balance is key to keeping your skin blemish-free and glowing. Drinking more water can help balance your pH level to give you healthy skin.

So, how do you make sure you’re getting enough water?

That’s where Manna Hydration can help. Our range of water bottles and tumblers can help you keep water close at hand throughout the day. This means you’ll end up drinking more water and giving your skin exactly what it needs.

What does clear skin look like?

People normally spend too much time in making sure that their skin is healthy, they eat the right food, they drink a lot of fluids, they spend lots of cash in skincare products that they’re not even sure about.

If you want to make sure that your facial creams will not go to waste with the rest of your efforts, there are signs of a healthy skin that the rest of the world can see every time you step out of your front door.

A clear, even complexion is a good indicator of healthy skin, while some visible skin conditions are hereditary, things like chronic redness, itchiness, and dark spots can be signs that something is not right, and that you should have your skin checked out by your dermatologist as soon as possible.

Check out this list of signs of a healthy skin and see if you’ll pass the test. If not it’s never too late, you can always try this skin analyzer to better understand your skin and its needs.

1. YOU FEEL NORMAL

Healthy Skin

If you feel an itch, or a burning sensation on your face, it may be affected by eczema, psoriasis, or some other skin diseases. If you feel that your face is fine, then you’re good to go.

Apple Cider Vinegar Toner for Healthy, Glowing, Clear Skin | Dr. Mandell

2. YOU DON’T HAVE A DRY SKIN

Healthy Skin

Your skin feels hydrated without the help of moisturizer. We have a tip for you, a dry skin can be reversed by drinking fluid half of your body weight. It can help your skin look pretty healthy and hydrated. To check your skin’s hydration level check out this skin analyzer

Related Items

Dark Spot Serum

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Best Overall: Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($75)

What We Like: The results are very quick.

What We Don't Like: It's a little sticky.

This brightening serum from Murad uses a combination of three powerhouse ingredients to fade dark spots and brighten skin: tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, and the brand's signature resorcinol technology. The unique formula also helps promote cell turnover and has exfoliating properties, which improves both dullness and skin texture. On top of all of those great benefits, the formula is very lightweight and hydrating, so you won't have to worry about it drying out your skin. It is gentle enough for daily use and absorbs well into the skin. With consistent use, the serum is sure to produce visible results when it comes to hyperpigmentation, melasma, and even redness.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

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Best Value: Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

VIEW AT AMAZON ($16)

What We Like: It doesn't irritate the skin and it reduces fine lines.

What We Don't Like: It takes three to six weeks to see results.

You don't have to spend a fortune to fade dark spots at home, especially with this affordable serum from Neutrogena. With two dermatologist-recommended ingredients for fighting hyperpigmentation (vitamin C and retinol), this serum is a great option for anyone who wants to try out dark spot correctors for the first time. In addition to brightening up your skin, it will also even out texture and bumps, keep pores clear, and smooth wrinkles. What's even better is that it's formulated without any harmful dyes or mineral oil.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: Yes

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

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Best Splurge: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

VIEW AT DERMSTORE ($166)

What We Like: It gives skin a beautiful glow.

What We Don't Like: It has a distinct smell.

If you're willing to splurge on a dark spot corrector, opt for this popular anti-aging serum by SkinCeuticals. The antioxidant-rich formula features vitamins C and E and ferulic acid to brighten skin and stop dark spots from appearing. With continued use, you'll find that wrinkles are less noticeable and skin tone is more even. It will even banish acne scars for good and provide protection against environmental skin stressors like pollution and sun damage, making it well worth the splurge.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

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Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($88)

What We Like: It smooths out your complexion and mimics the effects of a professional peel.

What We Don't Like: It's pricey.

These at-home peel pads from Dr. Dennis Gross will visibly improve your complexion almost as well as a professional peel would. The two-step treatment gives your skin an extra-strength dose of AHAs, BHAs, and retinol to target dark spots, fine lines, large pores, and more, while soothing ingredients like chamomile and green tea prevent inflammation and protect the skin. Although they are a bit pricey, the set comes with 30 pads and the youthful complexion it produces is well worth the price tag.

Size: 30 sheets | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: No

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum

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Best Exfoliator: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum

VIEW AT ULTA ($90)

What We Like: It transforms your entire complexion, from tone to texture.

What We Don't Like: It is expensive.

This Drunk Elephant night serum is a cult favorite, and for good reason. With an AHA/BHA gel formula, it doubles as an exfoliator and works to resurface dull, congested skin by gently lifting away dead skin cells. On top of improving skin texture, fine lines, and wrinkles, it features a handful of derm-approved ingredients like glycolic and lactic acids and raspberry extract, which target dark spots. It is also formulated at a skin-friendly 3.5 pH level.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform

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Best With Retinol: Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($88)

What We Like: It has anti-aging benefits and prevents acne.

What We Don't Like: It has a strong scent.

This lightweight serum from Shani Darden utilizes time-released, encapsulated retinol, a more gentle form of retinol that minimizes irritation, to correct dark spots and brighten up your skin. The serum also uses lactic acid and fruit extracts to reduce signs of aging, protect the skin against free radical damage, and improve skin elasticity. It will even gently exfoliate your skin and help even out the texture in as little as two weeks.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: Yes

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

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Best With Vitamin C: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

VIEW AT ULTA ($34)

What We Like: It's packed with antioxidants and has powerful brightening abilities.

What We Don't Like: It pills under moisturizer and makeup.

This editor- and expert-approved serum by Mad Hippie is another favorite of Dr. Jaliman's and it features all-natural ingredients. It uses vitamins C and E to make dark spots appear less noticeable and doesn't contain any fragrance or parabens. The antioxidant-rich formula is also packed with hyaluronic acid, konjac root powder, ferulic acid, and chamomile extract to improve your skin's overall complexion and grapefruit to naturally exfoliate dead skin cells.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: Yes

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid

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Best With Lactic Acid: Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

VIEW AT AMAZON ($85)

What We Like: It deeply exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal brighter skin.

What We Don't Like: It is advertised as an anti-aging product but does not do much for fine lines.

If you're looking for a high-quality dark spot corrector, you can't go wrong with Sunday Riley's Good Genes treatment. It is packed with lactic acid, which helps to exfoliate dull, pore-clogging dead skin cells, according to Dr. Jaliman. The formula also features licorice extract to help diminish the appearance of dark spots, acne scarring, and discoloration as well as soothing ingredients like aloe and lemongrass that will nourish your skin. While the treatment is definitely a splurge, it is sure to give you an instant glow that rivals a facial.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: Yes

Dark Spot Serum

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Best With Niacinamide: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Dark Spot Serum

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($43)

What We Like: It improves skin elasticity and makes the skin noticeably more radiant.

What We Don't Like: It's very creamy and could absorb better.

First Aid Beauty's Facial Radiance Dark Spot serum is another great option to even out your skin tone. It is clinically-proven to boost your complexion in just four weeks and it features niacinamide to gently even out skin texture, minimize pores, and add some bounce. The formula is also reinforced by licorice root and golden kiwifruit, which work together to soothe the skin and protect it from environmental stressors.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

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Best Multipurpose: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($10)

What We Like: It targets dark spots, fights acne, and reduces redness.

What We Don't Like: It can be very drying.

Even derms love The Ordinary's affordable skincare products. This lightweight formula by the cult favorite brand uses azelaic acid, which Dr. Mauricio loves for its "multitasking abilities" — plus, the ingredient is gentler on skin than other acids. "This inexpensive solution helps with acne, skin texture, and skin discoloration and is safe to use for long term maintenance of dark spots," she adds. It also helps tame redness and rosacea and has a matte finish.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: Yes

Eva Naturals Vitamin C+ Serum

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Best Organic: Eva Naturals Vitamin C+ Serum

VIEW AT AMAZON ($15)

What We Like: It's made with plant-based, non-irritating ingredients.

What We Don't Like: It can slightly sting if you have sensitive skin.

This dark spot-correcting serum boasts a powerful formula that is packed with ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinol. In addition to anti-aging and brightening properties, the serum also boasts hydrating hyaluronic acid and acne-fighting salicylic acid. It's made with entirely plant-based ingredients as well, so it is a great option for anyone looking for something a bit more natural. To top it off, applying this serum daily can reduce the risk of breakouts and it protects against UV rays.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: Yes

La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Cleanser

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Best Face Wash: La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Cleanser

VIEW AT AMAZON ($26)

What We Like: It's very hydrating and it gently exfoliates the skin.

What We Don't Like: It can leave behind a film.

With this brightening cleanser from La Roche-Posay, you can target dark spots in nearly every step of your skincare routine. Using a derivative of salicylic acid called lipo-hydroxy acid, the foaming face wash will gently exfoliate and even out skin tone all while providing a thorough clean. It can be used both in the morning and at night, and it features glycerin to help hydrate the skin. The foaming texture lathers up well and it has a pleasant scent to it.

Size: 4.2 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: Yes

serum

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Best for Women of Color: Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($68)

What We Like: It is designed for women of color, by women of color.

What We Don't Like: It is not ideal for oily skin and can make it feel more oily.

Eadem's dark spot corrector is finally available at Sephora and it's already making waves. The miracle serum contains pigment-correcting ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and Amber Algae. Plus, it was designed for women of color, by women of color — and the dosage of each ingredient was chosen specifically to fade dark spots on melanated skin. For an even brighter boost, it features papaya and pineapple enzymes, which will gently resurface the skin without causing any irritation. It is suitable for both A.M. and P.M. use and it leaves the skin feeling so soft.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL

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Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAl 0.1 Intensive Cream

VIEW AT AMAZON ($70)

What We Like: It features nourishing and soothing ingredients.

What We Don't Like: It's very thick.

This velvety cream will hydrate your skin, get rid of dark spots, and combat signs of aging all at the same time. It's ideal for sensitive skin as it is formulated with retinaldehyde, a form of retinol that's often gentler and more effective, along with the brand's signature thermal spring water, which soothes the skin. The formula is also packed with peptides to nourish and firm the skin. It is free of fragrance, parabens, and silicones, making it even more gentle for anyone with skin that irritates easily.

Size: 1.01 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: No

L’Oreal Paris, Revitalift Bright Reveal Anti-Aging Day Cream

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Best With SPF: L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Anti-Aging Day Cream

VIEW AT AMAZON ($13)

What We Like: It protects the skin from future sun spots and treats existing ones.

What We Don't Like: It can leave skin feeling a bit greasy.

Using glycolic acid, vitamin C, and pro-retinol, L'Oréal's brightening moisturizer will correct existing dark spots and smooth wrinkles while the SPF 30 will prevent any more sun damage. It also doesn't take long to achieve that sought-after glowy complexion and dull skin will look brighter after just a few applications of this holy grail product. The cream's subtle citrus fragrance is another notable perk and the Bright Reveal line includes a cleanser, peel pad, and an overnight moisturizer to complete the line up.

Size: 1 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry, sensitive | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: Yes

Proactiv Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

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Best for Acne-Prone Skin: ProactivMD Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

VIEW AT AMAZON ($36)

What We Like: It clears up acne and acne scarring quickly and effectively.

What We Don't Like: It may be too strong for some skin types.

ProactivMD's gel was designed with acne-prone skin in mind and is dermatologist-tested to treat both existing breakouts and dark spots that linger once the pimples are gone. It boasts powerful Adapalene gel, a type of retinoid that was previously available by prescription only, but can now be bought over the counter — and even better, right on Amazon. The gel effectively clears acne, blackheads, clogged pores, scarring, and pimples and it is free of benzoyl peroxide.

Size: 1.6 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, acne-prone, sensitive | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: No

CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM Ultra Lightweight

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Best Cream: CeraVe Ultra-Lightweight Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM

VIEW AT ULTA ($19)

What We Love: It's very calming and it's great for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.

What We Don't Love: It is a bit light for a night cream.

When it comes to removing dark spots, you aren't limited to just serums and treatments. A gentle, fragrance-free formula like CeraVe's lightweight lotion can get the job done without irritating your skin. "This moisturizer is great because it has three types of ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. All [are] very good ingredients, which will help with not just dark spots but fine lines and wrinkles as well," Dr. Jaliman says. These ingredients are also very nourishing and hydrating, so it's a win-win for anyone with dry skin and discoloration. It is designed for nighttime use and it is non-comedogenic.

Size: 3 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, acne-prone, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: No

Peace Out Microneedling Dark Spot Brightening Dots

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Best Patches: Peace Out Microneedling Dark Spot Brightening Dots

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($28)

What We Like: They dramatically fade dark spots after just one use.

What We Don't Like: They leave behind a residue that needs to be washed off.

The brand loved for its pimple patches and pore strips also makes these 1-step microneedling dots that are specially designed to fade dark spots. Each sticker contains niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and ferulic acid, ingredients that actually help reduce discoloration, as well as 430 self-dissolving, hyaluronate-infused microneedles. They provide all the radiance-boosting benefits of real microneedling with a much simpler process, just stick on a dot wherever you see a dark spot and leave it on overnight. They are also made with no parabens, sulfates, or harmful chemicals, so you can rest assured knowing they won't dry out your skin.

Size: 12 dots | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: No

Beauty Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar

No7 Laboratories Dark Spot Correcting Booster Serum

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Best Spot Treatment: No7 Laboratories Dark Spot Correcting Booster Serum

VIEW AT ULTA ($40)

What We Like: It's very gentle and targets individual spots very well.

What We Don't Like: It takes almost a month to see results.

This dark spot corrector from No7 is formulated with the brand's special lightening complex (a combination of vitamin C, emblica, and sophora) that is clinically proven to improve the appearance of dark spots, age spots, and sun spots. And since it's a spot treatment, you can specifically target areas with hyperpigmentation without having to apply it to your entire face. It's a very thin, lightweight consistency that is suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin.

Size: 6.5 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Scented: No

OLEHENRIKSEN Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner

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Best Toner: Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner

VIEW AT SEPHORA ($32)

What We Like: It tightens pores and combats redness.

What We Don't Like: It tingles at first, which may not be for everyone.

This refreshing toner by Ole Henriksen uses two types of AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) and licorice root to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. The formula also features witch hazel, a natural astringent that is known to reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts, as well as a variety of soothing ingredients. After cleansing, apply this toner to your skin with a cotton pad and watch as your complexion improves in as little as seven days.

Size: 6.5 fl oz | Skin Type: Oily, combo, normal, dry | Cruelty-Free: No | Scented: Yes

What to Keep in Mind

Skin Type

Before you start applying a dark spot corrector, there are a few things to remember. "If you have very sensitive skin, you want to be careful with certain ingredients such as retinol and acids," Dr. Jaliman says. "You want to start off with [the] lowest strengths possible to make sure your skin can tolerate it."

For people with sensitive skin, Dr. Jared Jagdeo, board-certified dermatologist and Chief Medical Officer at Ever/Body, suggests looking for dark spot correctors made with gentler, less irritating ingredients. "Tranexamic, salicylic, [and] azelaic acids are gentle enough for those with sensitive skin," he says.

Skin Tone

While ingredients like vitamin C are effective on people with fair skin tones, those with darker skin tones may need something a bit stronger like a retinol or acid. Dr. Jagdeo recommends tranexamic acid, salicylic acid, and cysteamine for Black or brown skin. "The ingredients work by blocking melanin production and melanin levels at different points within skin cells," he says.

Brightening Ingredients

An easy way to fade dark spots is to brighten up your overall complexion and skin tone. To do this, keep your eyes out for products with brightening ingredients like antioxidants "Look for vitamin C, alpha arbutin, licorice root extract, hexyl resorcinol, green tea, and of course, SPF to help reduce the appearance of sunspots or freckles," says Dr. Mauricio. Other common ingredients that help fade dark spots are niacinamide (a.k.a. vitamin B3), kojic acid, and lactic acids.

Dr. Jaliman adds that products with exfoliating ingredients can also be beneficial in evening out skin tone and brightening up your complexion. "Lactic acid and glycolic acid help to exfoliate the dark discoloration," she notes. "Taking off the top layer of the skin allows other products to penetrate deeper into the skin to help with hyperpigmentation."

Retinol

Retinol is another ingredient that will help fade dark spots as it stimulates a quicker renewal of skin cells, according to Dr. Jaliman. "When someone uses retinol, the outer layer of the skin is sloughed off and the newer, brighter skin underneath is revealed," she says. Retinol also has tremendous anti-aging benefits and can smooth out fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.

Your Questions, Answered

What causes dark spots?

Dark spots can be caused by a variety of things including both external and internal factors. "Dark spots are increased deposition of pigment under the skin due, mostly to sun exposure," Dr. Mauricio says. "But there are a few other reasons why your skin could have hyperpigmentation: Things like acne scars, pollution, and changes in hormone levels can often be blamed, too."

Are dark spots a cause for concern?

Most types of dark spots are typically harmless, but be sure to consult your dermatologist with any concerns. "Sometimes it is difficult to tell whether a new pigmentation on your skin is a benign freckle, sun spot, or something more serious like a skin cancer, and a skin biopsy may be needed to get a definitive diagnosis," says Dr. Mauricio. "If there are signs of irregularity (uneven coloration, jagged border, and asymmetry) or if your spots are changing, they should be examined by a dermatologist right away."

Should I be using SPF while trying to fade dark spots?

Dark spot correctors and SPF go hand-in-hand and you should absolutely follow your corrector up with SPF, for multiple reasons. "If you're exposing your skin to lightening/brightening and pigment inhibiting agents and not using a sunscreen, you're opening yourself up to a number of problems," says celebrity-loved aesthetician Candace Marino. "You are increasing your risk of sunburn and hyperpigmentation which will remove the melanin from the skin and cause white spots, which is not ideal either." Plus, what's the point of fading dark spots if you are not preventing new ones from forming? So, make sure you have an SPF armed and ready.

What is the fastest dark spot remover?

I give my skin credit for treating me nicely most of the time, but if there's one thing I'd complain about, it'd be dark spots. Small dots of hyperpigmentation are the bane of my existence, and finding a dark spot treatment that works has proven...difficult, to say the least. In my case, these spots are the aftermath of the occasional pimple that I mutilate, which has its revenge by scarring, darkening, and never truly going away.

What causes dark spots?

There are a number of other reasons you might have dark spots. Perhaps the most common is sun damage, which, after a prolonged period, can cause hyperpigmentation as a guilty reminder of that time (or times) you didn't wear SPF. Hormonal changes, irritation, and certain diseases can also churn out these marks.

Can I get rid of dark spots?

Dark marks can be tough to prevent and even tougher to lift. While expensive dermatologist-conducted treatments can yield good results, there are also effective at-home products you can use to minimize and reduce the appearance dark spots. Enter: dark spot correctors. They contain highly concentrated ingredients that are designed to target and lift unwanted pigment with precision, and some have other complexion-boosting benefits. Here, we've compiled a master list of dark spot correctors with options for all skin types, tones, and occasions.

THE CORRECTIVE SERUM

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

$98.00 at dermstore.com

This cult-favorite serum can be used on both the face and neck to treat dark spots. Packed with kojic acid and vitamin B3, it's gentle enough for daily use, even if you have sensitive skin.

THE VITAMIN C SPOT CORRECTOR

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

$27.99 at ulta.com

With a high concentration of vitamin C—an ingredient praised for its ability to brighten and repair discoloration—this spot corrector works hard to eliminate dark spots. This product works fast, so you can see clear, even skin ASAP.

THE BRIGHTENING SERUM

Kiehl's Since 1851 Clearly Corrective™ Dark Spot Solution

€52.95

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

€70.95

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

€116.45

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

With vitamin C, birch and peony extract, this treatment will help brighten uneven skin tones over time. It can be applied on the entire face as an all-over brightening serum, or in specific areas as a spot treatment.

THE DARK SPOT INTERRUPTER

Clinique Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter

€64

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

€65.95

at OTTO DE

This "interrupter" works in two ways: First, it works hard to heal dark spots with brightening ingredients. Secondly, it shields the skin from future marks from appearing. Be sure to wear SPF while donning this product, which you should be doing anyway.

Hyper Skin Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum

$58 at sephora.com

If the 15% vitamin C doesn’t draw you in, perhaps the slew of other skin-loving ingredients will: Licorice and kojic acid also help even out skin tone, while salicylic acid and turmeric treat and prevent breakouts (a.k.a. one of the main causes of dark spots in the first place).

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum with Niacinamide and Vitamin C

$68 at sephora.com

If you can snag a bottle of this serum before it sells out (again), don’t hesitate: The milky formula—which has brightening ingredients like encapsulated vitamin C, niacinamide, and amber algae—fades spots in a flash, and is made specifically for darker skin tones.

Sisley Paris Intensive Dark Spot Corrector

$175 at nordstrom.com

A blend of potent vitamin C, exfoliating salicylic acid, and nourishing ingredients (to prevent irritation) make this luxe treatment worth the price. Plus, the ingenious roll-on applicator makes it super-easy to target dark spots.

Versed Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel

$16.99 at target.com

This affordable treatment features three of the biggies—niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid—to brighten up spots quickly and gently. Even better, it’s also got antioxidants to protect skin from future photodamage.

THE AGE-SPOT SERUM

Murad Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum

$25.00 at nordstrom.com

This powerful serum minimizes signs of age spots and hyperpigmentation. Its ingredients not only even out skin tone overall, but also lighten areas that have been heavily affected by dark spots.

THE HYPERPIGMENTATION REDUCER

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

€9.95

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

€18.45

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

Alpha arbutin and hyaluronic acid work together in this concentrated serum to reduce hyperpigmentation. For those with dry skin, hyaluronic acid also helps retain moisture for a brightened, hydrated appearance and feel.

FOR ALL-OVER DULLNESS

Wander Beauty Sight C-er Vitamin C Concentrate

$42.00 at revolve.com

Antioxidants are key for a clear complexion, and this 20% vitamin C offering from Wander Beauty is full of 'em. A pea sized amount will help lift discoloration and uneven tone, while plant-derived squalane, niacinamides, and seven different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid add much needed bounce back to dull, sleepy-looking skin.

FOR SPECIFIC SPOTS

Lumene Time Freeze Dark Spot Corrector

$65.00 at amazon.com

Who knew the secret to brighter skin can be found in the Finnish forest? Ok, we did, but now you do too. This targeted formula contains antioxidant-rich wild lingonberry that'll help clear an uneven skin tone.

FOR BEAUTY SLEEP

Peach Slices Microdart Patches for Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation

$8.99 at amazon.com

You know how microneedling and dermarolling can help skin heal itself and products to absorb better? Same idea here with these cute patches, which boast 176 microdarts each to help its vitamin C, licorice, and cica-infused serum treat skin fast. Best of all, you can wear them while you hit the sheets or under makeup.

FOR STUBBORN MARKS

111SKIN Vitamin C Brightening Booster

€104.90

at Amazon

Just because those spots have been there for a long time doesn't mean they're permanent. Just mix one or two drops of this highly concentrated formula into your favorite moisturizer and watch those age spots fade.

FOR A BUDGET

Burt's Bees Renewal Dark Spot Corrector with Bakuchiol Natural Retinol Alternative, 1 Oz (Package May Vary)

$14.96 at amazon.com

Bakuchiol is a plant-based, powerful substitute for retinol, and it can help even out skin tone on even the most sensitive complexions. Even better, the formula is 98.6% natural if you like to keep your routine as green as possible.

THE DEFENSIVE SPF

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Dark Spot Sun Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50

$42.00 at dermstore.com

This SPF-filled product not only protects your skin from fun, which can worsen dark spots, but also contains key ingredients that will heal the marks already occupying your face. With vitamin C, glycolic acid and healing peptides, you can enjoy the sun without worrying about impending dark spots.

THE ACNE-SCAR SAVER

Dermalogica AGE Bright Spot Fader

€38.35

at Amazon

€45.95

at Coolshop.de

For acne-sufferers who tend to see the lingering ghosts of a pimple on their faces, this product works in two stages. Not only does it help fade dark marks leftover from a breakout, but it also helps treat acne as it's occurring.

THE SPOT TREATMENT CREAM

Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C™ Vitamin C Targeted Spot Brightener

$58.00 at sephora.com

This product should be used as a spot treatment on dark marks caused by aging and sun damage. It can be used twice a day with sunscreen to heal existing spots and prevent the worsening of developing marks.

THE LIFTING TREATMENT

Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Dark Spot Correcting Cream SPF 30

$109.00 at sephora.com

This SPF-infused moisturizer has anti-aging properties that also corrects dark spots. For women who are concerned about fine lines, loss of firmness, and aging spots, this is the cream for you.

THE ALGAE GEL PEEL

Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C™ Dark Spot Correcting Peel

€90.45

at LOOKFANTASTIC UK

This gel peel smooths uneven textures while the vitamin C treats dark spots. This algae-infused product is also vegan and works hard to combat signs of aging and dark spots.

THE ALL-OVER SOLUTION

Verso Dark Spot Fix

€85

at Coolshop.de

€97.95

at Amazon

€97.95

at Galaxus.de

For people who develop dark spots on the face, body and hands, this all-over product has a powerful dose of retinol 8 to treat these marks from head to toe.

THE OVERNIGHT WORKER

REN Clean Skincare Overnight Glow Dark Spot Sleeping Cream

$52.00 at dermstore.com

This night cream uses the natural powers of algae to lighten dark spots. It's incredibly hydrating, which helps smooth rough skin patches and provide an ultra glowy morning dew look.

THE EFFECTIVE TONER

OLEHENRIKSEN Glow2OH™ Dark Spot Toner

$29.00 at sephora.com

Glycolic acid and lactic acid treats fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, uneven textures, and, of course, dark spots. This toner should be applied as the first step in your routine followed by serum and moisturizer. In just a week, you can look forward to seeing your dark spots fade.

How can I clear up my skin overnight?

A good night’s rest has never been more important than the weeks (and days!) leading up to your wedding day. Not only are a solid eight hours of snooze crucial for your well-being, but your skin can reap some overnight skincare benefits, too. Need another excuse to get in the habit of hitting the pillow at a reasonable time? You can maximize your skincare regimen with a bevy of treatments and hacks to get gorgeous skin while your body rests. We enlisted the counsel of dermatologists Lily Talakoub, MD, and Kenneth Howe, MD, as well as celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas to get the secrets on banishing pesky breakouts, fine lines, and wrinkles and achieving smooth and radiant skin.

MEET THE EXPERT

Lily Talakoub, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center.

Joanna Vargas is a celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salons and Skin Care. She is also the author of Glow From Within.

Kenneth Howe, MD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Derm.

Read on for expert insight and tips on how to get clear skin fast.

How to Prep Your Skin for the Big Day

MICHELA BUTTIGNOL/BRIDES

1. Go to Bed With a Clean Face

It starts with the basics, and the foundation of great skin is cleansed skin. “Wash your face with a cream-to-oil cleanser,” says Talakoub. “Exfoliating cleansers can strip the natural barrier of the skin, leaving skin dry and dull. An oil-based or cream-to-oil cleanser is gentle on the skin and leaves the skin's natural barrier unharmed and glowing.” She recommends Comfort Zone Remedy Cream to Oil Cleanser.

2. Try Apple Cider Vinegar

Believe it or not, one kitchen essential can gently exfoliate the most sensitive or breakout-prone skin without the need for harsh scrubbing or a chemical-laden peel. “Raw apple cider vinegar is perfect for any skin type and particularly amazing for people who break out," says Vargas. "It exfoliates, balances the skin, and it also helps calm breakouts and heals them quickly.” She suggests applying a small amount all over your face like you would toner using a cotton round, adding "I would just warn people that the smell is not for everyone!”

Apple cider vinegar is not acidic, so it’s very gentle. "Leave it on the skin as an overnight treatment, and it will make your skin look better in the morning," says Vargas.

3. Use a Sheet Mask Before Bed

Not only do they make for a great Instagram selfie, but sheet masks are great for hydrating skin. So, before you layer on your skincare products for the evening, Howe suggests indulging skin with a heaping dose of extra moisture. “My favorite is the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask, which contains Pitera,” he says. “Derived from the yeasts involved in the fermentation of sake, Pitera is very similar to the natural moisturizing factors of our skin. It enables our skin to better hold on to moisture.” The result?

“A more glowing, dewy appearance,” he says.

4. Avoid Salty Foods in the Evening

This is especially true on the nights leading up to the big day, Howe tells us. “If we’re talking about the actual night before the wedding, it can be helpful to avoid highly salty foods as they can lead to puffiness.” He also explains that puffiness under the eyes especially can lead to a tired look. “A de-puffing gel can help take down the swelling," he tells us.

5. Don’t Be Afraid of Oils

If you’re still on the fence about facial oils, consider this more reason to take the leap. “Oils protect the outer layer of the skin and provide rich antioxidants to prevent against DNA damage,” explains Talakoub. She suggests layering an oil under your night cream for optimal results. “Choose [an oil] that is non-comedogenic. My favorites are ones with argan oil, sunflower seed oil, or marula oil.”

6. Don't Skip Vitamin C, Especially Around the Eyes

One of the keys to achieving radiant skin is good old vitamin C. The super-ingredient banishes dark spots and improves skin tone, revealing beautifully glowy skin—and who doesn’t want that? Talakoub reminds us to apply and massage around the eye area for a double dose of great skin. “Apply a brightening eye cream with vitamin C or licorice root extract from your temples to the inner corners of your eyes," she says. "The vitamin C brightens dark under-eye circles while the outward massage helps improve lymphatic drainage, decreasing morning under-eye puffiness."

The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Makeup

7. Hydrate

"Dehydration is a lack of water in the skin," explains Vargas. "Dehydrated skin can appear red, inflamed, or irritated and, when pinched, may not bounce back or may tent up in a wrinkly shape or fine lines. You don't have to have all of these—just one can mean dehydration." If drinking water doesn't entice you, Vargas has some suggestions: Green juices offer a tastier alternative that hydrates and encourages lymphatic drainage to de-puff, and chlorophyll has similar effects while also oxygenating the skin. For topical products, look for serums with green ingredients to hydrate and oxygenate, or plant oils to plump the skin, and apply upward to stimulate circulation. Masks with hyaluronic acid, yogurt, or avocado oil can do wonders for dehydration, too.

Track water intake with a large, reusable water bottle, such as a 32-oz. one, and set goals to drink two or three bottles per day.

8. Don't Pop Pimples

We might all technically know this rule, but we'll be the first to admit it can be oh-so satisfying to rebel. So let's take a second to reiterate why you need to fight the urge to pick. Aside from inflaming the area even more (read: making it far more noticeable), you're delaying the healing process and risking permanent scarring from digging your nails into the skin. Instead, Vargas recommends spot-treating with yogurt, as the lactic acid and probiotics naturally calm and heal. "My exfoliating mask is awesome for bringing that glow back to the skin, and it will flatten any breakouts," she adds. "I also love that it evens out pigment in the skin, so you look even and fresh in the AM!"

9. Absorb Excess Oil

While a dewy complexion is highly sought after, oiliness doesn't always translate in the same lustrous way. Blotting papers may be a convenient tool for absorbing extra oil and instantly mattifying, but you might want to rethink this approach. "They tell the skin to produce more oil, so the opposite of what we want the skin to do when you feel shine," explains Vargas. "Instead use a zinc-based translucent powder sunscreen like my favorite, SuperGoop translucent powder, so the skin is protected. The zinc will help you get a matte finish without creating an excess of oil production."

10. Avoid Touching Your Face

Consider this complexion commandment the golden rule of skin care. "Bacteria and dirt on the hands can lead to inflammation and breakouts," says Vargas. "I would just avoid this at all costs." Despite how well-meaning the manual attention may be, any contact with the skin can not only transmit irritating, sensitizing, or skin-clogging particles directly to the face but also push them into the skin depending on how much pressure is being applied. If you absolutely must touch your face, ensure your hands have been properly cleaned immediately beforehand.

Why is my skin not clear?

Sometimes it’s hard to know what your skin really needs to be as healthy as possible. Every day we’re bombarded by marketing hype for various skin care and cosmetic products, as well as advice from social media influencers and other beauty gurus.

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for 30 Days

So, what does the research say your skin actually needs? What helps and what doesn’t in the quest for clear, radiant skin?

This article will help answer those questions by providing 11 evidence-based tips on what you can do to get the glowing complexion you want.

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1. Wash your face twice a day

If you’re prone to breakouts or have oily skin, don’t skimp on washing your face as part of your morning and evening skin care routine.

In a studyTrusted Source that focused specifically on face washing, participants were asked to wash their face one, two, or four times a day for a six-week period.

At the end of the study, there was a significant improvement in the acne lesions of those who washed their face twice a day. The participants who only washed their face once a day had the greatest increase in pimples.

2. Use a mild cleanser

The aisles at most drugstores are packed with all sorts of facial cleansers. Trying to figure out which one is right for you can be overwhelming.

When it comes to choosing the “best” cleanser, fancier may not necessarily be better.

A systematic reviewTrusted Source of 14 studies found that there really isn’t much difference in skin breakouts, no matter what type of cleanser you use.

The studies included everything from cleansing bars and antibacterial soaps to cleansers that contained alpha and beta hydroxy acids.

While this may be disappointing if you’ve spent a lot of money on an expensive cleanser, the takeaway here is that keeping it simple is probably best.

A mild cleanser without a lot of ingredients and fragrances can work just as well as more expensive options.

3. Apply an acne-fighting agent

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), many topical therapies can help fight acne. The key to finding the most effective one for you is knowing what type of acne you have.

Depending on the type of acne you have, the AAD recommends the following:

Comedonal acne (blackheads and similar bumps). Look for products that contain retinoids like adapalene gel (Differin).

Mild acne. Topical benzoyl peroxide can help fight mild acne, either on its own or together with a topical retinoid.

Inflammatory acne. Topical dapsone 5 percent gel is recommended, particularly in adult females.

Acne with scarring. Azelaic acid preparations can help reduce acne and the risks of acne scarring.

If you want to simultaneously target different types of acne, the AAD recommends using a combination of benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, or adapalene gel.

Using these treatments together may dry out your skin, so be sure to use a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

4. Apply a moisturizer

How does a moisturizer help keep your skin clear? Well, if your skin is excessively dry, it may try to compensate for the dryness by overproducing oil. The result? Breakouts.

Like cleansers, moisturizers don’t have to be expensive or filled with fancy ingredients. More importantly, look for a moisturizer that’s noncomedogenic. This means it won’t clog your pores.

If you have oily skin, moisturizers labeled “lightweight” may be best to prevent a heavy, greasy feeling.

Some people find they have to switch to heavier moisturizers during the winter months when cold, dry air can leave skin feeling tight and dried out.

5. Exfoliate

Exfoliation can help remove excess dead skin cells. If these cells stay on your skin for too long, they can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.

Having a buildup of dead cells on your face may also make your skin look dull, flaky, or prematurely aged.

The following exfoliation methods may help clear away dry and dead skin:

a 2 percent salicylic acid mask

a 10 percent or less glycolic acid mask or lotion

a motorized facial brush

How often should you exfoliate? It really depends on the type of exfoliation you use.

For chemical exfoliants, like masks or lotions, aim for once or twice a week. For physical exfoliants, like scrubs or brushes, aim for three or four times a week.

Start with fewer exfoliating sessions and work your way up to prevent over-exfoliating.

If you have inflammatory acne (pustules and cysts), the AAD recommends that you talk to your dermatologist first, as some types of exfoliation may make inflammatory acne worse.

6. Get plenty of sleep

Not getting enough sleep may also cause your skin to break out more often.

According to a 2015 study, more than 65 percent of the study’s participants who said they felt tired also had acne.

The study’s authors theorized that a lack of sleep could, in some instances, cause the body to release inflammatory compounds. These compounds could cause the skin to break out or worsen acne.

To stay healthy both on the inside and out, aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.

7. Choose makeup that won’t clog your pores

A 2013 studyTrusted Source found people who use cosmetics seem to be more likely to have skin breakouts. To ensure your makeup routine is skin-friendly, be sure to:

Use products labeled “noncomedogenic” or “oil-free.”

Always wash your hands before applying makeup or skin care products.

Always remove your makeup before going to sleep or exercising.

Wash makeup brushes and sponges on a weekly basis.

Makeup can cause its own form of acne that doctors call acne cosmeticaTrusted Source. This condition causes small, raised bumps that usually appear on the chin, cheeks, or forehead.

8. Don’t pick at your skin

It’s really, really hard not to pick at a zit. But, for the health of your skin, it’s important to resist.

Picking or popping a zit exposes the pore to even more bacteria, including those from your hands. It also increases the risk of infection or scarring.

If you have a pimple that really hurts, see a dermatologist. They can perform specialized treatments to safely get rid of the pimple while also minimizing the risk of infection.

9. Relax

Several studies, including one from 2017Trusted Source, have shown a connection between stress and acne. If you’re dealing with a stressful event or situation, look for healthy ways to de-stress. Some options include:

exercising at a high to moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes

doing breathing exercises

doing yoga

meditating for a few minutes

writing it out

practicing sound therapy, like playing a musical instrument or listening to your favorite music

10. Go easy on the sugar

Although there’s limited research on the connection between your diet and your skin, several studies have shown that foods with a high glycemic index may be linked with acne.

In a large study from 2009, more than 2,000 participants were placed on a low-glycemic diet. Not only did they lose weight, but 87 percent of the study’s participants also found they had less acne. Additionally, 91 percent said they needed less acne medication.

To cut back on foods with a high glycemic index try to:

Limit processed carbs, like white bread and baked goods.

Cut back on sugary sodas and sweets.

Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy sources of protein.

Limit alcohol consumption.

11. Don’t smoke

There’s a good deal of scientific evidence that links smoking with a higher risk of acne.

One study included women from 25 to 50 years of age who had acne. The authors of this study found that almost 73 percent of the participants who smoked had acne, while only 29.4 percent of the women who didn’t smoke had pimples or some other form of acne.

If you need help with quitting tobacco, talk to your doctor about quit aids that may help.

The bottom line

When it comes to clear skin, pay attention to what you put on your face — like cleansers, moisturizers, and makeup — and what you don’t — like unwanted bacteria from your fingers or dirty brushes and sponges.

Focusing on certain lifestyle factors, like quality sleep, a healthy diet, and stress management, can make a difference to your skin, too.

If you’ve tried several types of treatments for your acne and nothing works, make an appointment with a dermatologist. They may prescribe treatments like antibiotics or prescription medications to help clear your skin. If you don’t already have a dermatologist, our Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area.

Can apple cider vinegar remove a mole?

Moles are quite common, they occur when the cells in the skin grow in a cluster. They also can change the color after exposure to the sun or post pregnancy. Though most moles are not dangerous, but their appearance can make you slightly self-conscious. So if you want to get rid of the moles on your skin, you can consult a professional and undergo a surgery to remove it. Otherwise you can also opt for some home remedies to remove the unsightly moles on your body. Here are some of the simple yet effective home remedies that will lessen the size, color and appearance of your moles and to help you get rid of unwanted moles on your body.Also Read - Try These Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dry and Dull Skin- Shahnaz Husain Shares Skincare Tips

1. Use apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a miracle in a bottle that you will find in your kitchen cabinet. Apple cider vinegar is great for weight loss, but did you know it is one of the most common product used for mole removal. The acids in the apple cider vinegar such as malic acid and tartaric acid will work together to dissolve the mole on your skin and completely remove it from the surface. All you need to do is grab a q-tip and swap a little apple cider vinegar on the area. (ALSO READ How to get rid of acne? 19 tips to get back your acne-free glowing and healthy skin). Also Read - Amazing Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar For Radiant And Plump Skin, Shahnaz Husain Shares Tips

2. Use crushed garlic

It is said that garlic can also be useful when it comes to mole removal. To use garlic to removal moles from your body, crush some fresh garlic to make a paste. Now apply this fresh batch of garlic paste directly on the mole. But avoid the area around the mole, otherwise your skin will get irritated. Cover the garlic applied area with a bandage for a few hours. You can also leave it overnight. The garlic enzymes will break down the cell clusters, and help them to spread out evenly, but this method of mole removal is said to work in five days. Also Read - Rashmika Mandanna is 'Not a Gym Person', Pushpa Actress Dolls Out Health and Beauty Tips | Exclusive

3. Use iodine

Iodine is a good option for people with more sensitive skin, as it won’t burn like garlic or apple cider vinegar. While purchasing the topical iodine product, make sure that it only contains 5 percent iodine. Apply the iodine directly to the mole using a q-tip, up to three times a day. Continue to do this every day, until you see a noticeable improvement in the mole’s appearance. (ALSO READ How to get rid of blackheads: 9 homemade remedies to effectively remove blackheads from your face).

4. Use castor oil and baking soda

Castor oil and baking soda when used together can work well on the moles. Take one tablespoon of baking soda and two tablespoons of castor oil and mix them well to form a paste. Now apply this paste directly on to your mole and lead it for several hours. You can also leave it overnight before washing it off.

5. Use honey and flax seed oil

Honey is known for its anti-bacterial and healing properties. To use honey for the mole removal treatment, use honey with a little bit of flax seed oil. Mix a little bit of honey and flax seed oil and apply it onto the mole of your skin. This paste can get rid of all your moles and warts. (ALSO READ How to get rid of whiteheads: 10 ways to effectively remove whiteheads from your T-zone).

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6. Use sour apple juice

Sour apple juice also works well for mole removal treatment. All you need to do is juice some sour cooking apples and apply it directly onto your moles. You can also get it from any local retailer. This will work the same way apple cider vinegar works on moles to dissolve them. But this method will take longer to show results. You will be able to notice the changes only after three weeks. This method will leave a little or no scar on your skin.

7. Use pineapple and coarse sea salt

Blend half a cup of fresh pineapple with a quarter cup of coarse sea salt. After blending it you will get a scrub like consistency. Apply this pineapple and seas salt scrub onto the area. It will help remove the top layer of the skin from the mole. (ALSO READ Waxing tips at home: DIY at-home painless waxing tips you need to know).

8. Use onion juice

Using onion juice can also help you to get rid of moles. Peel the onion, chop them into small cubes, and then extract the juice. Now apply this freshly extracted onion juice with the help of a q-tip directly onto the mole. Do this on a regular interval and soon you will get rid of moles from your body.

9. Use tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, but did you know it also works as a mole remover! Yes, tea tree oil can get rid of even malignant moles and the ones that are deeply embedded in your. Undiluted tea tree oil when applied twice a day will help you to get rid of unwanted moles. Depending on the size of the mole on your skin, tea tree oil can take a couple of weeks to get rid of it completely. (ALSO READ Home remedies to pamper your feet and treat cracked heels this winter).

You have to remember that while using these home remedies you should be very careful since all the ingredients that are used in the mole removing treatments are acidic in nature, so it can burn your skin. Also if you have sensitive skin make sure that you do not let the ingredients to be in contact with your skin for a log period of time, otherwise your skin will get irritated.

All the above mentioned home remedies will not be as effective as surgical method and will also take a considerable amount of time to show results. Tell us which one worked for you the best in our comment section below.

What lotion is good for dark spots?

It's likely that nearly anyone would say their dream skin involves a variation of the words "glowy", "bright", or "radiant." Unfortunately, dark spots can be one of the most common (and, totally normal and natural!) skin concerns that get in the way of that goal. Whether you have acne scars, age spots, or sun spots, any form of dark mark on the skin is considered hyperpigmentation, and it happens when excess melanin—the pigment that makes up your skin's color—forms deposits in the skin. If you're asking yourself how to remove those dark spots with a corrector, it's first important to understand what kind of pigmentation you have.

Dermatologist Dr. Oma Agbai says one of the most common types of hyperpigmentation is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, the after-effect of inflammatory skin conditions like acne or eczema, that causes the release of excess melanin in affected areas. And, as annoying as it may feel, many of you (myself included!) may have experienced post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation lasting long after those skin issues have healed—something Agbai says is extremely common.

While any skin tone can be affected by dark spots, she says it can appear differently on various skin tones. "Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because they have more cells in the skin that make melanin," says Agbai. "Contrarily, people with lighter skin tones are more likely to develop solar lentigos [sun or age spots] by UV radiation from the sun."

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See below for the 19 best dermatologist-recommended dark spot correctors—from serums to masks, moisturizers, toners, and more.

1. L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

“Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals from causing oxidative damage to the skin and blocks enzymatic processes that make more pigment in the skin,” explains dermatologist Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD. Translation: This L'Oreal serum will help stop those two causes of brown spots in their tracks.

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10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

L'Oreal Paris

amazon.com

$32.99 $17.48 (47% off)

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2. Farmacy Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer

“Melanin goes into overproduction in the sun to protect our skin from harmful UV/UB rays, causing them to look darker than your natural skin tone,” says dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD. She recommends an antioxidant-rich product, like this honey-packed one from Farmacy, to protect skin against damage from free radicals like UV rays and pollution.

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Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer

Farmacy

amazon.com

$45.00

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3. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

One of Levin’s favorite products for increasing brightness, SkinCeuticals' serum packs in 15 percent of brightening antioxidants vitamin C and E. It's definitely a splurge, but if you can afford it, you'll love how lightweight the water-like consistency feels despite the high concentration of potent ingredients.

C E Ferulic Acid Serum

SkinCeuticals

skinceuticals.com

$169.00

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4. Fresh Vitamin Nectar Glow Mist

Fresh's mist has a water-like formula built to really penetrate the skin deeply, so it can easily be used like a serum, but the fine mist also works great as a moisturizer, setting spray, or even makeup primer. Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, loves that the formula packs in both Vitamin C and E. “Vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that work together to prevent free radical damage to the skin and interfere with the production of excess pigmentation,” he says.

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Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist

fresh

sephora.com

$44.00

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5. Garnier SkinActive Dark Spot Corrector

Lipo-hydroxy acid is the powerhouse in this affordable dark spot corrector. “Hydroxy acids are an effective way of exfoliating dead cells from the surface of the skin to enhance radiance and improve hyperpigmentation,” says Zeichner.

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SkinActive Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector

Garnier

amazon.com

$14.38

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6. Sunday Riley CEO Glow Face Oil

Dermatologist Dr. Laura Scott works with a lot of melasma and acne-prone patients, so if you're in the same boat as they are, this is definitely the option for you. "I love the formulation in this. It has turmeric in it, so I use this to treat inflammation on my acne-prone skin, and it also brightens it," she says. "I have a lot of melasma patients and I’ll recommend this to them, too."

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C.E.O. Glow Oil

Sunday Riley

amazon.com

$40.00

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7. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Dark spots are no match for the triple threat of kojic acid, tranexamic acid and vitamin B3 in this serum, according to Engelman.“It’s clinically proven to improve brown patches, skin discoloration, and acne marks,” she says. Reviewers with acne scars particularly love this one, though it won't work overnight—like most of the products on this list, you'll want to be patient and give it at least two months to see long-lasting results.

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SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

SkinCeuticals

skinceuticals.com

$102.00

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8. The Ordinary Peeling Solution

This little guy rose to TikTok fame recently, and with good reason. For Engelman, it’s all about the acids—and this has plenty of them: lactic, glycolic, citric, hyaluronic, and salicylic acid. “Each acid provides exfoliation to help enhance skin texture and reveal healthy new cells,” she says.

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The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

YUYIHAN

amazon.com

$17.99

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9. Ambi Fade Cream

“Hydroquinone is the gold standard for lightening dark spots,” says Levin—and it's the star ingredient in this mega affordable brightening cream that boasts thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon. The formula contains 2 percent of the active ingredient, which is one of the highest concentrations you can find available OTC.

Ambi Fade Cream

amazon.com

$5.99

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10. BYBI Bakuchiol Booster

“Bakuchiol is a retinoid alternative that's well tolerated, and works great with vitamin C to even out skin tone,” says dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara. Mix this "booster" in with any of your Vitamin C moisturizers or serums, or use it alone as the last step in your routine. The ultra hydrating formula is great for dry skin types.

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1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Oil Booster

BYBI Beauty

credobeauty.com

$17.00

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11. Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

If you're looking for a good drugstore dark spot treatment, Zeichner loves this one from Neutrogena. “The combination of vitamin C and retinol helps block abnormal pigment production and enhances shedding skin cells that contain extra pigment,” he says.

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

amazon.com

$19.28 $15.95 (17% off)

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12. Differin Dark Spot Correcting Gel

“I like this gel because it contains a powerful retinoid to clear acne and prevent future pimples while preventing acne scarring,” says Engelman. “It is the first retinoid available over the counter and it is more gentle compared to other retinoids.” I swore by this during my teen acne phase, and then again through the acne I got in my late twenties—just be sure to top it with an ultra hydrating moisturizer or oil if you have dry skin, since (as Engelman noted) the retinoid is quite powerful in this.

Differin Dark Spot Correcting Serum

Differin

target.com

$18.99

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13. Bushbalm Bermuda Oil

Acne and dark spots don't just happen on the face, and that's exactly why Bushbalm made an oil that's safe to use on even the sensitive bikini and underarm area. "For those looking to naturally brighten the skin without harsh bleaching products, this is a go-to," says dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Clay. "Bermuda Oil works because it contains a natural exfoliant in lemon essential oil to help minimize the appearance of dark spots, and it also contains tea tree oil which helps calm inflammation.”

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Bermuda Oil Dark Spot Treatment

Bushbalm

amazon.com

$26.00

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14. Ranavat Resurfacing Saffron Masque

If normal peels make you red AF and dry you out, try this nourishing mask instead. “A light yet hydrating AHA mask, this one helps diminish dark spots when applied once per week,” says Gohara.

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Flawless Veil Resurfacing AHA Saffron Masque

RANAVAT

sephora.com

$75.00

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15. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

These hydroxy acid pads have a cult following for a good reason. “They actually contain alpha, beta hydroxy, salicylic, glycolic, and malic acid—a great combination of acids to tackle a few problems, including hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Engelman.

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Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross

sephora.com

$17.00

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16. Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

The radiant benefits don't need to stop at serums, moisturizers, and masks. This makeup-removing cleanser can round out your full glowy skin routine. “Soy is a natural ingredient that has skin-brightening effects, which is why it’s commonly used in products that help lighten dark spots,” says Zeichner. It's also one of the few makeup removers I use that won't irritate my sensitive eye area.

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Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

Fresh

sephora.com

$44.00

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17. Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Moisture is another key factor when it comes to treating dark spots, according to Engelman. "Adding moisture back into the skin with oils and lotions can reduce the appearance of existing dark spots and prevent new ones from forming," she explains. This one's packed with redness-reducing lavender, too.

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Self-care Night Recovery Oil

piliani.com

$80.00

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18. LiveTinted Huegard SPF30 Primer

You already know how important it is to protect your skin from the sun, and Agbai stresses that sun damage can seriously exacerbate existing hyperpigmentation. She recommends her patients wear a mineral-based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30—I personally swear by this one from LiveTinted, made for and by melanin-rich skin.

Hueguard Mineral SPF 30 Primer

Live Tinted

ulta.com

$32.00

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19. FaceHaus The Bright Talent Serum

Dermatologist Dr. Britt Craiglow, MD reiterates the importance of incorporating a vitamin C serum in to your routine if you want to fade dark spots. "This FaceHaus serum is great for those looking for an effective, more budget-friendly option."

How do dermatologists get rid of dark spots?

Visual inspection. Your doctor can usually diagnose age spots by looking at your skin. It's important to distinguish age spots from other skin disorders because the treatments differ and using the wrong procedure may delay other needed therapy.

Skin biopsy. Your doctor might do other tests, such as removing a small sample of skin for examination in a lab (skin biopsy). This can help distinguish an age spot from other conditions, such as lentigo maligna, a type of skin cancer. A skin biopsy is usually done in a doctor's office, using a local anesthetic.

More Information

Skin biopsy

Treatment

If you want your age spots to be less noticeable, treatments are available to lighten or remove them. Because the pigment is located at the base of the epidermis — the topmost layer of skin — any treatments meant to lighten the age spots must penetrate this layer of skin.

Age spot treatments include:

Medications. Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months. The treatments might cause temporary itching, redness, burning or dryness.

Laser and intense pulsed light. Some laser and intense pulsed light therapies destroy melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) without damaging the skin's surface. These approaches typically require two to three sessions. Wounding (ablative) lasers remove the top layer of skin (epidermis).

Freezing (cryotherapy). This procedure treats the spot by using a cotton-tipped swab to apply liquid nitrogen for five seconds or less. This destroys the extra pigment. As the area heals, the skin appears lighter. Spray freezing may be used on a small grouping of spots. The treatment may temporarily irritate the skin and poses a slight risk of permanent scarring or discoloration.

Dermabrasion. Dermabrasion sands down the surface layer of skin with a rapidly rotating brush. New skin grows in its place. You may need to undergo the procedure more than once. Possible side effects include temporary redness, scabbing and swelling. It may take several months for pinkness to fade.

Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive approach than dermabrasion. It leaves mild skin blemishes with a smoother appearance. You'll need a series of procedures over months to get modest, temporary results. You may notice a slight redness or stinging sensation on the treated areas. If you have rosacea or tiny red veins on your face, this technique could make the condition worse.

Chemical peel. This method involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. New, smoother skin forms to take its place. Possible side effects include scarring, infection, and lightening or darkening of skin color. Redness lasts up to several weeks. You might need several treatments before you notice any results.

The age spot therapies that remove skin are usually done in a doctor's office and don't require hospitalization. The length of each procedure and the time it takes to see results varies from weeks to months.

After treatment, when outdoors you'll need to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and wear protective clothing.

Because age spot treatments are considered cosmetic, they typically aren't covered by insurance. And because the procedures can have side effects, discuss your options carefully with a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist). Also, make sure your dermatologist is specially trained and experienced in the technique you're considering.

More Information

Chemical peel

Dermabrasion

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Lifestyle and home remedies

Many nonprescription fade creams and lotions for lightening age spots are available for sale. These may improve the appearance of age spots, depending on how dark the spots are and how often you apply the cream. You might need to use such a product regularly for several weeks or months before you notice results.

If you want to try an over-the-counter fade cream, choose one that contains hydroquinone, glycolic acid or kojic acid. Some products, especially those that contain hydroquinone, may cause skin irritation.

You could also apply makeup to help make age spots less noticeable.

Preparing for your appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor, who may then refer you to a dermatologist.

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

When did you first notice the spots on your skin?

Did the spots appear gradually or quickly?

Have you noticed any other changes in the appearance of your skin?

Is the condition itchy, tender or otherwise bothersome?

Have you experienced frequent or severe sunburns?

How often are you exposed to the sun or UV radiation?

Do you regularly protect your skin from UV radiation?

What kind of sun protection do you use?

Do you have a family history of age spots or skin cancer?

What medications do you take?

Questions you may want to ask your doctor include:

What suspicious changes in my skin should I look for?

If the spots are age spots, what can I do to improve the appearance of my skin?

Do treatments make them go away completely, or do they just lighten the age spots?

Could these spots turn into skin cancer?

Which is the best dark spot remover cream?

Doesn’t it feel irritating to have certain parts of your body not match your overall skin tone? When you find a dark patch or so on your face or body, it’s only human to feel a little insecure and want to cover it up or get rid of it. Well, we understand exactly how you feel, ladies. So, as much as you try to scrub them off with exfoliators, peel-off masks or heavy, face packs – these dark spots can be a lot more stubborn than you think.

They appear without a warning and take forever (at least that’s how long it feels) to do away with. And as if this wasn’t enough, they’re almost impossible to be covered with makeup as well! You might have to be patient enough to coat some extra layers of foundation/corrector just to see the colour of your spots fade away a little. Well, guess what? You don’t need to hide them anymore. We’ve found an easier solution to brighten your areas of discoloration, without any hassle or pain!

a women is hiding her dark spots

Source: Unsplash

If you’ve been troubled by the appearance of these difficult, dark spots and wish to get rid of them, we’ve got a list of 15 products that will NOT disappoint you at all! Choose from some of these best dark spots removal creams in India and forget about your dark spots, once and for all.

Best Dark Spots Removal Creams For Face

1. Kama Ayurveda: Rejuvenating & Brightening Ayurvedic Night Cream

This rich and easily-absorbent night cream sinks deep into the skin without any greasiness and shows noticeable results from day one. With a unique blend of powerful, Ayurvedic ingredients, this night cream gives you a divine skincare experience. Its saffron brightens your skin tone, reduces dark circles, pigmentation, repairs fine lines and age spots; antiseptic Indian Madder and Aloe Vera heals your skin and slows down the process of ageing; extracts of Vetiver and Lotus cools the skin while clearing your blemishes, and licorice protects against all fungal and bacterial infections. What more could you ask for?

Pros: It’s non-greasy and non-sticky, gives a glowing complexion and gets rid of blemishes and age spots.

Cons: It might be a little expensive for some.

2. Forest Essentials: Kumkumadi Teenage Night Cream

With natural ingredients like sweet almond oil, ghee and shea butter that seep deep into the layers of our skin, this cream works wonders to keep the skin healthy and nourished from within. It also includes Varnya herbs which bring a healthy radiance to the skin along with Kasturi Manjal and Padmaka (Wild Himalayan Cherry) to effectively, lighten our skin pigmentation and post-acne scars.

Pros: Makes your skin smooth, lightens your dark spots and shows results from day one.

Cons: It’s a bit greasy and not very budget friendly.

3. Oriflame Optimals: Even Out Dark Spots Reduction Cream

Containing a patented antioxidant technology, this cream helps prevent the production of melanin (which causes pigmentation) and evens out your skin tone by lightening the darkened areas. It neutralizes the effects of environmental damage like sun exposure and pollution on the skin and allows the skin cells to function in a healthy way. It keeps your skin feeling fresh and gives it a youthful glow.

Pros: It gives an even-toned complexion, provides UV protection and gets rid of pigmentation.

Cons: It might take a little while to show noticeable results.

4. L’Oreal Paris: White Perfect Night Cream

True to its words, this night cream promises to leave you with a perfect skin tone, free of blemishes and pigmentation. It contains ingredients like tourmaline gemstone which gives your skin a rosy and luminous glow, Melanin Vanish which helps in the reduction of dark spots and Vitamin E which protects against free radicals and repairs your skin from within. Night after night, your skin would feel softer, more hydrated and more even-toned than before.

Pros: It has a creamy texture which absorbs easily into the skin, reduces dark spots and gives a natural glow instantly.

Cons: It contains less quantity.

5. Lotus Herbals Papayablem: Papaya N Saffron Anti-Blemish Creme

While its papaya extracts work as a natural astringent in reducing your pigmentation and dark spots, saffron extracts brighten and rejuvenate your skin tone from within. This cream also includes other essential ingredients like almond oil which is known for its skin nourishing properties, apricot kernel oil for softening your skin, clove oil for preventing acne-causing germs and lemon peel extracts for its skin lightening properties. All in all, this cream gives you a blemish-free and naturally, glowing skin.

Pros: It has a nice, fruity fragrance, a non-sticky texture and reduces the appearance of all dark spots.

Cons: It might take a while to notice its results.

6. Olay Natural White: All-In-One Fairness Night Cream

This all-in-one fairness night cream provides the exact kind of nourishment and protection your skin requires on a daily basis. Powered with a tri-vitamin boost of B3, pro B5 and E, this cream provides 7 fairness benefits which lighten your skin tone, brighten your dull skin, reduce the appearance of dark spots whilst giving you a well moisturised, even skin tone with visible pore reduction.

Pros: Its non-sticky texture gives a smooth finish, makes your skin feel soft and velvety and lightens the dark spots instantly.

Cons: It doesn’t work too well in the long run for many. (might vary from person to person)

7. Biotique Bio Wintergreen Spot Correcting Anti-Acne Cream

The extracts of wintergreen are known for its cooling, healing and anti-inflammatory action. But this cream provides so much more! Being rich in neem oil, bearberry and euphorbia extracts, it treats the root cause of acne and clears up your blemishes by unclogging your pores. It gently corrects all your post acne scars and dark spots/marks on your skin, leaving you with clear, radiant skin with just the amount of moisture and smoothness it requires.

Pros: It has a nice earthy, fragrance, prevents the clogging of your pores and shows a visible difference in your skin from its first use.

Cons: It contains less quantity.

8. Himalaya Bleminor Anti-Blemish Cream

No product treats your skin problems with as much care as Himalaya! Infused with herbal ingredients like almond vatadha, sarja (Indian copal tree extracts), licorice and chirayu (silk cotton tree extracts), Bleminor’s powerful, anti-inflammatory properties prevent the occurrence of hyperpigmentation and help in correcting scars from any injury. Not only does it rejuvenate your complexion but it also inhibits the production of melanin, thereby preventing melasma caused by exposure to UV rays and ageing.

Pros: It works wonders for dull and acne-prone skin, gives a natural glow and prevents the occurrence of dark spots and pigmentation for a long period of time.

Cons: It has a strong smell, which may not be liked by many.

9. POND’s White Beauty Daily Spot Less Lightening Cream

With Gen white active formula and SPF 15, this nourishing, non-oily day cream works deeply to fade dark spots and prevents the excess production of melanin in your skin. Its antioxidant lightening action brightens your dull skin and reduces your dark circles, leaving you with spotless, radiant fairness. It also contains UVA and UVB sunscreens which provide protection from sun exposure and its damage.

Pros: It gives instant coverage to dark spots and an even-toned complexion.

Cons: It doesn’t work too well in the long run for some. (might vary from person to person)

10. Bajaj Nomarks: Ayurvedic Antimarks Cream

Bajaj Nomarks has always been one of the most effective and highly recommended spot-removal creams in India. By extracting the power of potent Ayurvedic ingredients like Zergul (Calendula), Kumari (Aloe Vera), Haridra (Turmeric) and Nimba (Neem), this cream helps to cure all sorts of marks, scars, dark spots, blemishes or skin discolourations by treating the root cause of the problem in your skin. It then also prevents them from occurring again through its anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties.

Pros: It’s herbal ingredients prevent the occurrence of acne and reduce the appearance of dark spots to a substantial amount.

Cons: It might take some time to show noticeable results.

Best Dark Spots Removal Creams For Body

1. Fabindia Vitamin E Cream De-Pigmentation

The lightweight texture of this phenomenal cream leaves your skin soft, supple and equally bright. Along with skin lightening, the Vitamin E gently lightens your blemishes, dark spots, freckles or scars on any part of your body. It also improves the elasticity of your skin and removes age spots, fine lines and other signs of ageing on your face. It boosts the natural shine of your skin whilst fading away all the unnecessary, uneven or discoloured patches.

Pros: It makes your skin feel extremely soft and supple, gives a subtle glow and lightens the discoloured areas to a noticeable extent.

Cons: It has a strong smell.

2. Khadi Omorose Anti-Blemish Cream

This cream has the perfect infusion of some of the most effective, natural ingredients like aloe vera, rose, papaya extract, liquorice, jojoba oil, ashwagandha, fenugreek, grapeseed oil and wheat germ oil. It gently reduces the occurrence of your acne marks, dark spots, blemishes and pigmentation on any part of your body, leaving your skin velvety smooth and radiant.

Pros: It reduces dark spots, heals your skin from within and prevents the occurrence of pigmentation for a long time.

Cons: It might take some time to show noticeable results.

3. VLCC Almond Honey: Deep Nourishing & Skin Brightening Body Lotion

This brightening body lotion contains a powerful blend of almonds and honey, a combination which is well known for its skin nourishing and brightening properties. The potent nutrients of honey and the goodness of almonds seep deeper into the skin and gently heal the scars whilst lightening all your discolorations. The addition of aloe vera, wheat germ and fenugreek oil maintain the moisture of your skin and keep it soft and supple with a natural glow.

Pros: It has a sweet fragrance, makes your skin feel smooth and moisturized and lightens all the dark spots and areas of pigmentation.

Cons: It has a tendency to lighten but doesn’t completely help in fading all the dark spots or prevent them from occurring again.

4. Garnier Light Complete Moisturising Serum-In-Lotion

This lightweight, serum-in-lotion is neither greasy nor sticky and absorbs easily into the skin without leaving any white patches. Infused with yuzu lemon essence, it naturally, lightens your dark spots and brightens your skin tone while moisturising your skin and leaving it soft and supple. It also contains UVA and UVB filters which protect your skin from the harmful exposure of the sun’s rays. You can see a noticeable difference in your skin from the first few days of using itself.

Pros: It has a nice lemony smell, absorbs easily into your skin and leaves it feeling smooth with a glow.

Cons: It doesn’t work too well in the long run for many.

5. Nivea Whitening Even Tone Body Lotion

This body lotion’s innovative, fast-absorbing formula offers the power of nature combined with a high concentration of Vitamin C that works to repair your skin, one layer after another. While the concentrated Camu extracts and Acerola Cherry brighten your skin tone, the UVA and UVB filters prevent the occurrence of pigmentation and other dark spots on your body.

Pros: It leaves your skin feeling smooth and fresh and reduces the occurrence of pigmentation to a certain extent.

Cons: The results might vary from person to person.

I TOOK APPLE CIDER VINEGAR GUMMIES FOR 2 WEEKS | Goli

FAQs

1. Can dark spots be permanently removed from our skin?

Although dark spots can take a while before they fade away, the good news is – they’re not permanent. While some of them might disappear on their own with time, for others – more stubborn and darker ones – you might have to follow a certain skincare regime to get rid of them. This should involve an effective, beauty product to quicken its pace along with specific preventive measures or natural home remedies.

2. Why do we get dark spots on our face/body?

The condition wherein dark spots or uneven/slightly darker patches appear on our skin is known as pigmentation and this can occur due to various reasons. These spots can either be a result of post-acne, sun exposure, hereditary genes, hormonal changes, sun damage, excessive stress or side effects to antibiotics or other medications, etc.

3. Can natural ingredients help in removing our dark spots?

Yes, a lot of kitchen ingredients can work as natural home remedies for removing pigmentation. You can try several combinations of face packs like raw potato extracts with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and water, lemon and honey, turmeric and milk, almonds with honey, milk and lemon juice, sandalwood with turmeric and milk, or avocados with honey and milk. These natural solutions might take longer to work but are proven to be extremely beneficial for your skin.

2-DARK-SPOTS

Source: Pexels

4. How can we prevent the occurrence of these dark spots?

One of the easiest ways to prevent the occurrence of pigmentation is to protect your skin from the harmful, UV rays of the sun. You should always use a sunscreen with more than SPF 30, re-apply it after every 3 hours and cover your skin with scarves or hats whenever you head out. You should also maintain a good skincare regime by cleansing, toning and moisturising your face every night before you go to sleep in order to get rid of all your dead skin cells. Since exercise is known to reduce stress and nourish skin cells, it can also prevent the occurrence of dark spots on your skin and keep it healthy and glowing.

5. What kind of dietary habits should we inculcate to prevent pigmentation?

You must drink at least 6-8 glasses of water every day and avoid oily foods as much as possible. You should also consume green, leafy vegetables like spinach, kale and fruits rich in Vitamin A and C to maintain clear and healthy skin.

So, what are you waiting for, beautiful? Try these best dark spot reduction cream and unveil that glowing skin you deserve!

How do you drink apple cider vinegar for acne?

From avocado facials to honey scrubs, reaching into your kitchen cabinet in hopes of attaining clearer, smoother skin is nothing new. But does apple cider vinegar (ACV), another superfood ingredient, deserve a spot on your bathroom vanity?

If you’ve considered using this pantry staple to help treat acne or another skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, that isn’t surprising. The popularity of ACV has only grown in recent years, thanks to its reputation for healing common infections and wounds, or lowering blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, as some research shows. You should know that all those benefits haven’t been proved; long-term randomized controlled trials on the potential effects of ACV in humans are lacking, notes Harvard Medical School. (And, as UChicago Medicine points out, despite what you may have read online, ACV won’t cure cancer.)

RELATED: Can Adding Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Diet Help With Weight Loss?

When it comes to helping you achieve a healthier complexion, some of the components in ACV may help, but experts are cautious about the ingredient's use orally or infused in beauty products. Below we explore the possible benefits and risks.

What’s in Apple Cider Vinegar That May Offer Health Benefits?

“Apple cider vinegar is the new ‘it’ girl,” says Patricia Farris, MD, a clinical associate professor at the Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans and a founder of Sanova Dermatology in Metairie, Louisiana. The vinegar, Dr. Farris says, is “being touted for medical benefits including controlling blood sugar, weight loss, and lowering blood pressure.”

Farris adds that vinegar has polyphenolic antioxidants, which may offer health benefits. ACV is high in pectin, a polysaccharide that occurs naturally in apples and may play a role in improving the skin’s barrier, according to a study published in January 2014 in Biomolecules & Therapeutics.

While human research on the potential benefits of ACV is limited, some people have experienced health benefits from the vinegar. According to UChicago, probiotics, nutrients, and the chemical compound acetic acid are the potentially beneficial parts of this rosy-hued vinegar. In ACV, the probiotic is the “mother” formed from the yeast and bacteria during fermentation. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that are also in foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Still, not just any bottle of ACV will boost your gut health. Abigail Waldman, MD, a dermatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, says that most ACV has the bacteria filtered out of it. And even when you can buy unfiltered or unpasteurized ACV that contains bacteria, there’s no guarantee that these bacteria contribute to healthy gut flora the way the aforementioned fermented foods might.

“ACV, like most fruits and vegetables, may serve as a prebiotic, providing the food for your gut flora to consume,” says Dr. Waldman, who is also an instructor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School.

RELATED: 10 Natural Dry-Skin Remedies You Can DIY at Home

How May Using Apple Cider Vinegar Help Improve Your Complexion?

A study published December 2017 in Natural Product Research suggests that ACV offers antifungal and antibacterial properties, but the research on how it may affect your complexion is lacking, says Melissa Piliang, MD, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic. “There is really no good scientific evidence proving the [skincare] benefits of ACV [topically or orally], and it can be harmful,” she says, adding that it can help skin conditions if used cautiously and with supervision from a board-certified dermatologist.

There are a few things in ACV that may boost the appearance and health of your skin.

Acetic acid Research has shown this acid is antifungal and antimicrobial. When used topically, it clears bacteria that may be related to either infections or skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis (scalp eczema), and eczema.

Citric acid This is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are used to increase skin cell turnover, and have been shown to decrease wrinkles and age spots.

Acetic acid and citric acid are found in higher levels in ACV, but they are also found in other types of vinegar. White vinegar probably works as well for skin conditions as ACV does, Waldman says. “Doctors have been using vinegar soaks forever. The theory is that ACV has more citric acid, which might be where the hype is coming from, but a lot of the effects are overblown,” she says.

RELATED: The Best Natural Remedies to Add to Your Anti-Acne Skincare Routine

Can Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Improve Your Health?

Drinking ACV has become popular as a way to improve gut health, but Dr. Piliang says that this benefit isn’t a sure thing. “Data suggests it, but we’re a ways from saying it will magically change your microbiome in a positive way. There are so many factors in what is in your microbiome and your gut,” she says.

So if you want to try it, manage your expectations. Farris recommends diluting it in water (1 tablespoon per cup of water) and drinking it as part of your daily routine.

To help mask the taste of ACV, a cup of tea, juice, or other nonalcoholic beverage can substitute for water for a flavorful alternative. The important thing is to avoid drinking ACV by itself, because in its pure form it has been associated with burns to the mouth and esophagus, and it can eat away at tooth enamel, according to a Dutch study published in December 2012.

Piliang says she’s seen reports of people having inflamed mucosa in their mouth, stomach, and esophagus from drinking ACV. “A tablespoon in a glass of water once a day is probably not going to do anything bad or good, but some people take things to the extreme,” she says.

Neither Waldman nor Piliang has heard of patients drinking ACV and successfully treating a skin condition.

RELATED: 8 Unexpected Ways to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Diluting Apple Cider Vinegar Is Key to Using It Safely

While Farris notes the potential benefits of consuming diluted ACV orally, she does not recommend applying pure ACV to your skin, as the acids in it may cause chemical burns and irritation, according to a June 2015 article in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. “Putting it on the skin straight up is highly irritating, and I have seen many patients who have irritated and burned their skin by repeated use of apple cider vinegar. I advise patients against using this particular home remedy for this reason.”

For skin infections, Waldman advises making a dilution of 1 tablespoon of ACV per 1 cup of water. There’s a wide range of recommended concentrations, but it’s generally advisable to start there and see how much you can tolerate.

“The higher the concentration, the more likely it’s going to irritate your skin,” Waldman says. “But it probably also works better because of the higher levels of acetic and citric acid. It’s a balance. You never want to use ACV in its concentrated form.”

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How Apple Cider Vinegar May Help Treat Skin Conditions

Experts have mixed opinions on the use of ACV as a treatment for skin conditions. Anecdotally, they’ve heard both of successes and bad reactions. Waldman doesn’t recommend that her patients use ACV but doesn’t dissuade those who are using it successfully. “If you have a mild condition, it might help, but for more severe cases, it’s probably not going to be the end all, be all of products,” she says.

Some basics to keep in mind: Your skin has an outer layer, the epidermis. “That layer is essentially like a brick wall. When you pull it apart, water gets out and irritants can come in,” Waldman says. “A lot of face washes, toners, and bar soap are just too harsh and strip that layer.”

The pH of skin is slightly acidic, and so is ACV, so if you have dry skin, you can generally use it without stripping the epidermis. You want to keep everything where it belongs — the lipid layer in place, to keep the irritants from penetrating into the skin, Piliang says.

Acne

Acne forms when keratin, the main protein in your skin, builds up in a pore and forms a plug (a blackhead or a whitehead). AHAs, like citric acid, dissolve the keratin so the pore can open up and drain, and it helps make pores appear smaller and improve the appearance of acne. Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide have the same effect.

“We know that breaking down keratin can help acne, and ACV does contain AHAs, so the potential is there, but there just aren’t good studies to show that,” Piliang says.

If you already use an anti-acne wash or acne treatments, those tend to be irritating to the skin, causing dryness and peeling, and you could be stripping the epidermis if you add ACV to your routine.

“It defeats the purpose when you let all the water out and everything outside — chemicals in the air, irritants, bacteria — in,” Waldman says. “Everyone is a little different, and oily skin probably has a higher tolerance for applying more acidic products. Sensitive, dry skin, has a much lower threshold. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation.”

For teens with oily skin and acne, using ACV is less risky because their skin is more resistant to irritation. The oil protects the outer layer of skin, and it comes back faster in a younger person than an older adult with drier skin, Piliang says.

RELATED: ‘How Can I Ease Acne Scars?’

Eczema or Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis or eczema, you should be very careful about using ACV, because if you put it on skin that’s broken down, fissured, or bleeding, it’s going to burn like crazy and be very uncomfortable, Piliang says.

When you have eczema, your skin doesn’t have a good barrier, so it’s vulnerable to bacteria, fungus, and other organisms and you’re at high risk for infection. Using diluted ACV may help get rid of the bacteria, and therefore prevent infection, Waldman says.

Waldman says she’s seen cases where ACV has improved psoriasis, but “mechanically it doesn’t quite make sense.” She has seen that ACV helps with seborrheic dermatitis, when you have a scaly scalp (like with psoriasis), and greasy, thick pink scales on the face. It’s thought to be due to the skin’s reaction to fungus and bacteria, which is why a diluted vinegar soak may help.

RELATED: 9 Treatments to Soothe Psoriasis

Rosacea

People with rosacea should be very cautious about using ACV, since their skin is already very sensitive and the outer layer is already damaged, Piliang says. Waldman doesn’t recommend using ACV because rosacea is multifactorial and could be a reaction to your normal skin organisms, the sun, spicy food, coffee, and even an irritating cream.

“Rosacea can be inflamed from a lot of irritating conditions, meaning ACV could make it better, but it could very easily make it worse if used inappropriately, meaning if it’s not diluted enough or if the person is just particularly sensitive to any sort of irritant on their skin,” she says.

Skin Infections

Waldman has seen patients successfully use vinegar soaks for chronic or acute local skin infections such as fungal infections like athlete’s foot and paronychia (infection around the fingernails). Vinegar soaks are particularly effective for treating toenail infections caused by a type of bacteria called pseudomonas, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This type of toenail infection comes with greenish discoloration of thenails, also known as chloronychia.

“That’s where I see ACV being used in the most effective way,” she says. “I have had acne patients who swear by ACV applied as a toner after they wash their face. It’s not something I would generally prescribe, but certainly in that population, they say it works well.”

If you’re looking at skin-care products that contain ACV, Waldman warns that you don’t know the concentration of ACV you’re getting. Instead, look for products with acetic acid, citric acid or other AHAs, or make your own toner with 1 tablespoon of organic ACV in 1 cup of water. “Otherwise you’re probably just paying for labeling,” she says.

Though medical research doesn’t yet support using apple cider vinegar as an external treatment to treat skin conditions, it is currently being explored as a potential treatment for skin and cosmetic benefits in clinical settings. A study published in January 2016 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggests that a topical application of apple cider vinegar may improve the impact of treatments of varicose veins in terms of both pain levels and cosmetic appearance.

RELATED: Top 10 Tips for Healthy Winter Skin

How to Tell if Apple Cider Vinegar Isn’t Helping Your Skin Condition

While it’s generally deemed safe to ingest diluted ACV or apply it to your skin, when it comes to your skin, don’t overdo it, or else you’ll risk irritating your skin. If you’ve been struggling with a skin issue for a while and are using ACV in your skin-care routine, Waldman recommends going to see your primary care physician or a dermatologist.

It’s possible that ACV may be helping you, but it could be masking another condition. She’s had patients come in who think they have acne, but actually have rosacea, and patients who thought they had brown spots but had very early melanomas.

“I know everyone wants an alternative treatment, but sometimes you do need to seek medical care for things that aren’t going away,” she says. “An outside, expert opinion can at least reassure you that everything is normal or if you need to seek other input.”

Does drinking apple cider vinegar make your skin glow?

What makes Apple Cider Vinegar so popular? Well, legend states that the Egyptian ruler, Cleopatra took a shine to this woody flavored drink because it helped her maintain her enviable beauty. She is even believed to have dissolved a pearl in this drink each time she sipped it. Of course, we can’t really afford the pearl bit but we can definitely tuck into this versatile wonder that’s been trickling its way into the mainstream of skin care.Here’s why you should consider making ACV your new BFF soon.Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar For SkinWith a mildly acidic pH level that ranges between 2 and 3, ACV keeps your skin functioning optimally. If we lost you at pH value, here’s the good news, in other words: By controlling oil production and reducing acne-causing bacteria, vinegar acts as a natural toner that helps prevent breakouts. Yay!Thanks to the presence of malic acid, vinegar boasts of an exfoliating nature can help clear pores and destroy bacteria on acne-prone skin.Malic acid in vinegar has more to offer. It is known to reduce melanin production thereby, controlling hyperpigmentation on skin.The anti-bacterial properties of vinegar help eliminate blackheads and pave the way for clear skin.This one might not sound directly related but it plays a key role too. Drinking a glass of ACV just before your meal can help you feel full longer. This will keep you from leaning on junk foods that can be destructive (RE: unwelcomed zits) for your skin. So, a glass of this household potion does work at maintaining your skin at its best.How To Apply Apple Cider Vinegar On FaceStep 1: In a bowl of water, add two drops of Apple Cider Vinegar to create a diluted solution.Step 2: Add a drop of Lavender essential oil to the solution.Step 3: Dip a clean cotton swab into the bowl and gently apply the solution on affected areas on your skin.Step 4: After 5 minutes, rinse off with cold water.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Skin

HOW TO CONSUME APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR SKINDrinking apple cider vinegar for skin can work towards detoxifying your body and getting that much coveted glow.Step 1: In a glass of warm water, add two tablespoons of Apple cider Vinegar.Step 2: To make the sour drink palatable, add a drop of honey and stir it well.Step 3: Consume this drink daily in the morning on an empty stomach.Nykaa Recommends: Nourish Vitals USDA Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Raw, Unfiltered With MotherApple Cider Vinegar For FaceWhether you pick it from the kitchen or bathroom cabinet, Apple Cider vinegar promises to make an unmissable difference to your skin. Here’s a lowdown on a few products you can rely on for your skin treatment.

1. HEALTHKART APPLE CIDER VINEGAR WITH MOTHER – UNFLAVOREDThe HealthKart Apple Cider Vinegar With Mother is loaded with antioxidants that flush out all toxins from the body. In other words, reach out for this savior and consider your skin woes sorted. What makes it safer for consumption is its promise of 100% unfiltered ACV that includes the Mother – the tiny strands of protein you will find afloat in the bottle. As an alternative, you can also drizzle it as salad dressing or simply add a few drops in your morning smoothie. You can thank us later.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face - HealthKart

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face – Wow ACV face wash

2. WOW SKIN SCIENCE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOAMING FACE WASH WITH BUILT-IN BRUSHIf you’ve got oily skin and enlarged pores, this apple cider vinegar face wash is for you. The WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash brimming with organic ACV removes excess oil, tightens pores and reduces blemishes. It also helps prevent acne flare-ups while dissolving impurities and making way for smooth, glowing skin. Oh and did we tell you it comes with a built-in face brush with silicone bristles that effectively buff away dead skin cells?

3. WILDFLOWER NATURALS CLARIFYING APPLE CIDER VINEGAR TONER FOR NORMAL TO OILY SKINBalance is the key to everything in life, skin included. The Wildflower Naturals Clarifying Apple Cider Vinegar Toner is here to take care of that. Replete with Apple Cider Vinegar, Lavender Oil, and Vitamin E it seeps its way into your skin to clarify and balance the natural pH value. Not just that, this clarifying toner prevents breakouts, making your skin less prone to inflammation. P.S. Don’t worry about parabens and sluphates when you pick this little guy.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face - Wildflower Naturals ACV Toner

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face – Mamaearth Oil Free Face Moisturizer

4. MAMAEARTH OIL FREE FACE MOISTURIZER WITH APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR ACNE PRONE SKINConsider today, the day the skin lord addresses your concerns. Your long-running battle against the infamous collaboration of moisturizers and acne on your oily skin is now over. The non-greasy and hypoallergenic Mamaearth Oil Free Face Moisturizer With Apple Cider Vinegar helps retain natural moisture of skin while preventing acne breakouts. What about existing acne? Well, it works at calming existing acne while also clearing and closing pores.

5. WOW SKIN SCIENCE 10-IN-1 MIRACLE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR MIST TONICPowered with the multipurpose ACV, the WOW Skin Science 10-In-1 Miracle Apple Cider Vinegar Mist Tonic is an absolute bliss. The vinegar plays an antibacterial and antifungal role while refining pores and reducing acne. It also restores the healthy pH balance of skin. You will know its working, when you realize your skin finally doesn’t get too excited about producing more oil. Besides the hero ingredient, the tonic also contains Aloe Vera, Green Tea extracts and essential oils that disinfect skin and even complexion.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face – WOW ACV Mist

Apple Cider Vinegar For Face – HealthViva Apple Cider Vinegar With Honey

6. HEALTHVIVA APPLE CIDER VINEGAR WITH HONEYIf your taste buds mean the world to you and you wouldn’t want to challenge them to the brutality of raw apple cider vinegar, opt for a flavor infused one. The HealthViva Apple Cider Vinegar With Honey makes the skin potion palatable while also containing the goodness of Mother of vinegar. The infused honey, collected from the Himalayas with its potent antioxidants and vitamins works positively for your health too. Oh and don’t be alarmed by the cloudy look at the bottom of the bottle – that’s the promise of unprocessed, high quality vinegar.FAQs On Apple Cider Vinegar For Face1. Recommend gummies or capsules of apple cider vinegar for skin problems.If you are aware of the benefits of apple cider vinegar for skin but aren’t ready to apply it on your skin, you can try flavored ACV gummies. Although, before you consume these supplements, it’s important that you first consult with your nutritionist.Kapiva Ayurveda Apple Cider Vinegar GummiesPure Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar PlusTop Gummy Blackcurrant Flavour Apple Cider Vinegar GummiesWellhouse Apple Cider Vinegar Dietary Supplement2. Is it advisable to leave apple cider vinegar on face overnight? Suggest apple cider vinegar toner for face.If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended you avoid leaving ACV on your skin for prolonged duration. It’s safer to apply it and rinse it off after a few minutes. Here are a few good toners.AromaMusk Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Face Mist TonerStay Wild Apple Cider Vinegar TonerNeemli Naturals Glycolic & Apple Cider Vinegar Exfoliating Toner3. Suggest best apple cider vinegar for skin.True Elements Apple Cider Vinegar With Cinnamon And HoneySt.Botanica Apple Cider Vinegar With Honey - Natural With Goodness of Mother of VinegarINLIFE Apple Cider Vinegar With Mother VinegarHealthvit Apple Cider VinegarWOW Life Science Organic Apple Cider VinegarKapiva Ayurveda Apple Cider Vinegar

Can apple cider vinegar clear eczema?

Some people use apple cider vinegar as a remedy for various skin disorders, including eczema. But does it work, and is it safe?

Eczema can result in dry, cracked, and itchy patches of skin, and it may be painful or frustrating.

Finding natural, soothing treatments can be life-changing. Apple cider vinegar is one home remedy that many find effective.

The vinegar results from apple cider that has fermented. Some believe that it can heal eczema by rebalancing the skin’s acidity levels and reducing the risk of infection.

Eczema is common, affecting over 30 million Americans, for example. The term eczema usually refers to a condition in a group that includes atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema, among others.

In this article, we look at the scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar can help to heal eczema. We also describe how to use it and the risks.

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Can apple cider vinegar help with eczema?

Apple cider vinegar can help balance the skin’s acidity levels.

No high-quality research suggests that the vinegar can improve symptoms of eczema, though there are a few reasons why it could help.

GOLI APPLE CIDER VINEGAR GUMMIES VS BRAGGS APPLE CIDER VINEGAR DRINK WITH THE MOTHER| LaMonicas Lab

According to a testimony on the National Eczema Association’s Scratch Pad, adding 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath helps to moisturize and soothe the skin.

The many reported benefits to the skin may come down to apple cider vinegar having the following effects:

Balancing the skin’s acidity levels

Acidic substances may improveTrusted Source symptoms of skin disorders, including eczema, by helping to restore the skin’s acidity level. The skin is naturally acidic, which helps it to protect against bacterial infection.

A 2016 studyTrusted Source in mice found that applying a vinegar-based cream helped to maintain the pH of the skin and inhibit the development of eczema lesions. Researchers have yet to investigate these effects in humans.

Meanwhile, authors of a study from 2017 concluded that highly alkaline, or basic, soaps and cleansers can irritate the skin and aggravate eczema.

Managing inflammation and infection

Further lines of research suggest that apple cider vinegar can reduce inflammation and infectionTrusted Source. Applying it to the skin, therefore, may reduce eczema-related swelling and help prevent broken skin from becoming infected.

Is it safe to use apple cider vinegar on eczema?

Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, which can benefit the health in certain ways. However, in some cases and when overused, the vinegar can harm the body, for example by causing chemical burns.

Researchers and doctors have documented several examples of these injuries, including that of a child who sustained burns after his mother applied apple cider vinegar to the site of an infection and an adolescent who sustained burnsTrusted Source after attempting to use apple cider vinegar to remove facial moles.

Always talk to a doctor before using natural remedies on sites of eczema or other skin conditions. It is important to use small, diluted amounts of vinegar and to check the skin carefully for any reactions.

If a person experiences a burning sensation or any other side effects, they should stop using the vinegar and visit a doctor as soon as possible.

How to use apple cider vinegar

People use apple cider vinegar topically to treat eczema in many ways. For example, by:

Adding it to a warm bath. Mix 2 cups of apple cider vinegar with a warm bath, soak for 15 minutes, and rinse the body in cool water.

Using it in a wet body wrap. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of warm water. Dip some clean cotton fabric, gauze, or paper towel in the mixture. Wrap this around the area affected by eczema.

Applying it as a hair mask. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup of sunflower oil. Apply it to the scalp right after a shower. The vinegar may act as a protective barrier for the skin and improve its moisture retention.

Others report that apple cider vinegar is an effective toner and moisturizer.

Is it safe for infants?

No guidelines or research suggests that apple cider vinegar is safe for infants or babies. The substance can cause chemical burns, and it may damage an infant’s sensitive skin.

Speak to a doctor before using apple cider vinegar to treat symptoms in a baby.

Other natural remedies for eczema

Coconut oil may reduce eczema symptoms.

The following may help:

Coconut oil. This anti-inflammatory moisturizer and may soothe skin and reduce symptoms.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Taking these supplements can boost the immune system and help prevent flare-ups of eczema symptoms.

Vitamin D. These supplements can also prevent flare-ups.

Probiotics. Regularly taking probiotics may combat or prevent eczema.

Summary

Eczema is a common issue, and apple cider vinegar may reduce symptoms by restoring the skin’s acidity levels. Also, some people report that adding the vinegar to baths helps to reduce dryness.

However, apple cider vinegar can also cause chemical burns if it is misapplied.

Always talk to a doctor before using natural remedies, including apple cider vinegar.

How can I clear acne?

If you've tried over-the-counter (nonprescription) acne products for several weeks and they haven't helped, ask your doctor about prescription-strength medications. A dermatologist can help you:

Control your acne

Avoid scarring or other damage to your skin

Make scars less noticeable

Acne medications work by reducing oil production and swelling or by treating bacterial infection. With most prescription acne drugs, you may not see results for four to eight weeks. It can take many months or years for your acne to clear up completely.

The treatment regimen your doctor recommends depends on your age, the type and severity of your acne, and what you are willing to commit to. For example, you may need to wash and apply medications to the affected skin twice a day for several weeks. Topical medications and drugs you take by mouth (oral medication) are often used in combination. Treatment options for pregnant women are limited due to the risk of side effects.

Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of medications and other treatments you are considering. And make follow-up appointments with your doctor every three to six months until your skin improves.

Topical medications

The most common topical prescription medications for acne are:

Retinoids and retinoid-like drugs. Drugs that contain retinoic acids or tretinoin are often useful for moderate acne. These come as creams, gels and lotions. Examples include tretinoin (Avita, Retin-A, others), adapalene (Differin) and tazarotene (Tazorac, Avage, others). You apply this medication in the evening, beginning with three times a week, then daily as your skin becomes used to it. It prevents plugging of hair follicles. Do not apply tretinoin at the same time as benzoyl peroxide.

Topical retinoids increase your skin's sun sensitivity. They can also cause dry skin and redness, especially in people with skin of color. Adapalene may be tolerated best.

Antibiotics. These work by killing excess skin bacteria and reducing redness and inflammation. For the first few months of treatment, you may use both a retinoid and an antibiotic, with the antibiotic applied in the morning and the retinoid in the evening. The antibiotics are often combined with benzoyl peroxide to reduce the likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance. Examples include clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide (Benzaclin, Duac, others) and erythromycin with benzoyl peroxide (Benzamycin). Topical antibiotics alone aren't recommended.

Azelaic acid and salicylic acid. Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid produced by a yeast. It has antibacterial properties. A 20% azelaic acid cream or gel seems to be as effective as many conventional acne treatments when used twice a day. Prescription azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea) is an option during pregnancy and while breast-feeding. It can also be used to manage discoloration that occurs with some types of acne. Side effects include skin redness and minor skin irritation.

Salicylic acid may help prevent plugged hair follicles and is available as both wash-off and leave-on products. Studies showing its effectiveness are limited. Side effects include skin discoloration and minor skin irritation.

Dapsone. Dapsone (Aczone) 5% gel twice daily is recommended for inflammatory acne, especially in women with acne. Side effects include redness and dryness.

Evidence is not strong in support of using zinc, sulfur, nicotinamide, resorcinol, sulfacetamide sodium or aluminum chloride in topical treatments for acne.

Oral medications

Antibiotics. For moderate to severe acne, you may need oral antibiotics to reduce bacteria. Usually the first choice for treating acne is a tetracycline (minocycline, doxycycline) or a macrolide (erythromycin, azithromycin). A macrolide might be an option for people who can't take tetracyclines, including pregnant women and children under 8 years old.

Oral antibiotics should be used for the shortest time possible to prevent antibiotic resistance. And they should be combined with other drugs, such as benzoyl peroxide, to reduce the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

Severe side effects from the use of antibiotics to treat acne are uncommon. These drugs do increase your skin's sun sensitivity.

Combined oral contraceptives. Four combined oral contraceptives are approved by the FDA for acne therapy in women who also wish to use them for contraception. They are products that combine progestin and estrogen (Ortho Tri-Cyclen 21, Yaz, others). You may not see the benefit of this treatment for a few months, so using other acne medications with it for the first few weeks may help.

Common side effects of combined oral contraceptives are weight gain, breast tenderness and nausea. These drugs are also associated with increased risk of cardiovascular problems, breast cancer and cervical cancer.

Anti-androgen agents. The drug spironolactone (Aldactone) may be considered for women and adolescent girls if oral antibiotics aren't helping. It works by blocking the effect of androgen hormones on the oil-producing glands. Possible side effects include breast tenderness and painful periods.

Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin (Amnesteem, Claravis, others) is a derivative of vitamin A. It may be prescribed for people whose moderate or severe acne hasn't responded to other treatments.

Potential side effects of oral isotretinoin include inflammatory bowel disease, depression and severe birth defects. All people receiving isotretinoin must participate in an FDA-approved risk management program. And they'll need to see their doctors regularly to monitor for side effects.

Therapies

For some people, the following therapies might be helpful, either alone or in combination with medications.

Light therapy. A variety of light-based therapies have been tried with some success. Most will require multiple visits to your doctor's office. Further study is needed to determine the ideal method, light source and dose.

Chemical peel. This procedure uses repeated applications of a chemical solution, such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid or retinoic acid. This treatment is for mild acne. It might improve the appearance of the skin, though the change is not long lasting and repeat treatments are usually needed.

Drainage and extraction. Your doctor may use special tools to gently remove whiteheads and blackheads (comedos) or cysts that haven't cleared up with topical medications. This technique temporarily improves the appearance of your skin, but it might also cause scarring.

Steroid injection. Nodular and cystic lesions can be treated by injecting a steroid drug into them. This therapy has resulted in rapid improvement and decreased pain. Side effects may include skin thinning and discoloration in the treated area.

Treating children

Most studies of acne drugs have involved people 12 years of age or older. Increasingly, younger children are getting acne as well. The FDA has expanded the number of topical products approved for use in children. And guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology indicate that topical benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and tretinoin in preadolescent children are effective and don't cause increased risk of side effects.

If your child has acne, consider consulting a pediatric dermatologist. Ask about drugs to avoid in children, appropriate doses, drug interactions, side effects, and how treatment may affect a child's growth and development.

How do you get clear skin?

Many people find it difficult to get clear skin. The methods for getting clear skin will vary, depending on the person’s skin type. In general, people struggling with acne or blemishes have skin that is dry, oily, or a combination of the two.

Numerous skin care tips exist for different skin types, and there are also general tips that people can try. Anyone uncertain about their skin care routine should consult a dermatologist for additional advice.

Keep reading to learn more.

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General skin care tips

Wearing sunscreen can help protect oily skin from sunlight.

People may wish to try these general tips for getting clear skin fast.

Avoid popping pimples

A pimple indicates trapped oil, sebum, and bacteria. It is also a sign that the body’s natural healing mechanism is working.

Popping the pimple disrupts this healing process. Additionally, the released liquids expose the surrounding skin to similar bacteria, increasing the risk of additional pimples forming.

The exposed pimple may also lead to permanent scarring. Whenever possible, avoid popping pimples. If they drain, keep the area clean.

Wash twice daily, and again after sweating

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend that people wash twice daily and then again after sweating. Leaving sweat on the skin and allowing it to dry can make acne worse, so it is best to wash the skin as soon as possible after sweating.

Avoid touching the face

Touching the face with the hands can deposit dirt, oils, and bacteria onto the skin and lead to breakouts.

Moisturize

All skin types can benefit from moisturizing after a daily face wash. Keeping the face moisturized may help control sebum production and prevent damage from the outside elements.

The most effective moisturizer will vary in each case, depending on the person’s skin type. Anyone uncertain of what moisturizers will work for them should contact a dermatologist.

Always wear sunscreen

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. Wearing sunscreen whenever outdoors can help protect the skin from these harmful rays.

Focus on gentle products

People who need extra care for their skin will generally find that they react better to gentle products, which are less likely to irritate the skin. Products that commonly irritate sensitive skin include:

alcohol-based products

toners

exfoliants

astringents

Gentle, hypoallergenic versions of these products do exist. However, it is still important to test a small area of skin for reactions before applying any product to a more extensive area.

Avoid hot water

Showering, bathing, or washing the hands and face with very hot water can dry out or damage the skin. People who notice dry skin after bathing can try using lukewarm water instead.

Use gentle cleansing devices

Exfoliation is important to help wash away dead skin cells, but some devices can be too abrasive and may actually harm the skin. Tools such as washcloths, rough sponges, or loofahs may be too rough for the skin, causing damage and irritation.

Some delicate options exist, such as soft cleansing brushes. Alternatively, using clean fingers to massage a cleanser into the face may help prevent extra irritation.

Use topical medications

Topical medications may help people of all skin types control acne. Several different medicated products are available, including:

benzoyl peroxide, with or without other ingredients, such as antibiotics

salicylic acid

topical retinoids, such as tretinoin

dapsone, which is a combination anti-inflammatory and antibiotic

azelaic acid to unclog pores

Stay hydrated

All cells in the body need water. The skin cells are closest to the environment and, therefore, may be more at risk of losing their moisture to the elements. Drinking water throughout the day may help keep the skin cells healthy.

Eat a healthful diet

Eating a healthful diet rich in nutrients is important for the body as a whole, and it may also benefit the skin. Eating a diet rich in various plant foods and lean protein sources may help provide the nutrients that the skin needs to stay healthy.

People looking to keep their skin clear may also want to cut out specific troublesome foods, such as dairy milk. A review in Clinical Nutrition found a positive relationship between milk and acne. Some believe that this link is due to the growth compounds and hormones that the milk contains.

However, everyone may have different trigger foods that make their symptoms worse.

Learn more about which foods can boost skin health here.

Consider medicated products for acne

While gentle, natural products can help manage the skin and may help with minor breakouts, people with persistent or severe acne should see a dermatologist to discuss medicated options. Medicated options will vary depending on skin type and acne severity.

Use natural makeup products

Sometimes, makeup products can aggravate breakouts. Switching to natural makeup products or those designed to let the pores breathe may help reduce breakouts from makeup.

It is also important to remove all makeup each night and clean any makeup brushes or tools regularly.

Lifestyle changes

Although the evidence is largely anecdotal, some lifestyle changes may also help keep the skin balanced. Lifestyle changes to consider include:

getting a full night’s rest each night

avoiding smoking

reducing or eliminating excess sugar

avoiding fried foods

Reduce stress

It is also important to minimize stress whenever possible. The authors of a 2017 article noted that acne vulgaris is one of the most common inflammatory skin disorders.

They also highlight the link between stress and acne, stating that stress can increase inflammatory compounds in the body. Strong feelings of anger or emotional stress may lead to an acne breakout or make symptoms worse.

Due to this, it is important to find ways of reducing stress to help control acne. Stress management techniques include:

exercising regularly

getting massages or acupuncture

engaging in calming practices, such as meditation or breathing exercises

doing movement activities, including yoga and tai chi

Stress-reducing activities will also vary from person to person. Some people may enjoy going for a walk in the woods while others might prefer writing in a journal, for example.

Learn more about some stress-reducing activities here.

Tips for people with oily skin

People with oily skin may be more prone to acne and breakouts. Oily skin creates too much sebum and may have a shiny look to it. Some general tips for oily skin include:

Use an oil-free cleanser

People with oily skin can look for a natural, oil-free cleanser that helps break down and wash away excess sebum without adding even more oil to the skin. A number of mild cleansers are available specifically for acne-prone skin.

How I Got Rid of Black Head & Acne In 14days Using Apple Cider Vinegar.

Wash the hair daily

People with oily skin may also have an oily scalp. This excess oil can move to the face and encourage breakouts. Washing the hair each day may help control oil and reduce breakouts.

Use toner

People with oily skin who are prone to acne may benefit from using a gentle toner to help unclog the pores. Products containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid may help balance the skin’s pH and keep the pores clear.

Always wear sunscreen

Oily skin may also be more reactive to sunlight. Wearing sunscreen during any exposure to sunlight may help reduce this reaction. However, it is important to find sunscreens without oil or other ingredients that will contribute to more clogged pores.

Learn more about remedies and tips for oily skin here.

Tips for people with combination skin

People with combination skin have to care for dry patches of skin in addition to more oily areas, such as the T-zone, which is an oily zone that runs above the eyebrows and down the nose to the chin, making a T shape.

Consider using two facial cleansers

Facial cleansing can be tricky for people with combination skin. While some may respond well to a facial cleanser designed for oily skin, others may find that this dries out some patches of skin too much.

People with troublesome combination skin may find that using a general mild cleanser on the face and then an oil-reducing cleanser on any oily areas helps balance the skin.

Use blotting papers

Using blotting papers for oily spots may help temporarily balance combination skin and make it easier to manage. It may also help prevent sebum overproduction leading to acne breakouts in these areas.

Tips for people with dry skin

Dry skin produces less oil naturally, which can reduce the skin’s vitality.

People with dry skin may still struggle with acne, which may appear if they use an unsuitable moisturizer or add too much oil to their face to counteract their skin’s natural state.

The following are some tips on caring for dry skin:

Find a gentle moisturizer

Moisture is essential for dry skin, but it is important to find a source of moisture that does not clog the pores. Some people may find that their skin responds well to natural oils, such as argan oil, olive oil, or coconut oil.

Use gentle washes

Finding a gentle wash that does not strip the skin of natural oils is especially important for people with dry skin. It may be best for an individual to work with a dermatologist to find the best gentle cleanser for their skin.

Summary

People can try a variety of techniques for attaining clear skin at home.

The best methods will depend on the person’s skin type.

However, general lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, staying hydrated, and eating a healthful diet, can be effective for many people.

Can vinegar burn your skin?

“Natural home remedies” for nevi removal found on the Internet can be ineffective, or worse, dangerous. Children and teens, in particular, may be more likely to attempt self-treatment in order to avoid discussing their concerns with their parents. Here, the authors report a case of an adolescent who presented with a chemical burn after following an Internet-based protocol for nevi removal using apple cider vinegar.

A 14-year-old girl presented to the authors’ pediatric dermatology clinic for evaluation of two erosions on her nose. She had intentionally researched a protocol on the Internet utilizing apple cider vinegar as a “natural remedy” to chemically remove unwanted “ugly moles.” She subsequently applied several drops of apple cider vinegar daily for three days straight to the nevi on her nose, occluding the area with bandages. By the second day, significant erythema and irritation were noted at the application site, and her nevi “peeled off a couple of days later.” When her mother noticed the subsequent erosions, she immediately removed the vinegar from the patient’s possession and brought her for evaluation.

Physical examination revealed noninflammatory, poorly defined erosions on the left nasal ala and left nasal alar crease (Figure 1). The patient screened negative for depression and for suicidal/homicidal ideation. She was advised that many “home remedies” are ineffective and potentially dangerous, resulting in scarring, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and even possible malignant transformation. She was prescribed mupirocin 2% ointment twice a day for several weeks and liberal use of zinc oxide sunscreen to the erosions and surrounding skin.

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Figure 1

Erosions on the left nasal ala and crease after applying apple cider vinegar under occlusion per an internet-based protocol for nevi removal.

Numerous “how-to” guides for vinegar removal of nevi may be found through Internet searches, and several websites suggest the use of vinegar as treatment for other dermatologic maladies, such as warts, lice, and molluscum. Common vinegars are weak acids that contain 4 to 8 percent acetic acid, which can erode the skin and cause significant chemical burns, especially when applied under occlusion.1-3

The Internet is a rapidly growing first-line resource for at-home healthcare, and self-removal of nevi is a popular topic on online forums. Providers should be aware of this phenomenon and better prepare themselves to educate patients on the potential adverse effects of self-treatment.

How can I get rid of dark spots in a week naturally?

A clear and a glowing skin is the dream of every person, be it male or female. No one is fond of rough, patchy and tired-looking skin. Skin is most prone to dust and dirt and therefore many people complain of dark spots, rough and unhealthy skin. It is important to take good care of your skin and to maintain hygiene. Read more to know a few remedies to get rid of dark spots / Dark Spots and to make your skin smooth and soft.

Drink Plenty Of Water

Drinking plenty of water can do wonders to your skin. It helps in cleansing the body by eliminating all the toxins. Drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water per day will be the best and the most natural way of developing a clear, smooth and glowing skin.

Water helps in flushing out all the toxins and waste from your body. However, try to avoid the consumption of alcohol, carbonated and sugary drinks. Include fruits and vegetables which are high in water content in your diet. Also, wash your face at least 2 times a day to remove dust and dirt from your face to improve the appearance of your skin.

Lemon Juice And Yogurt Face Mask

We all know that lemons have a number of benefits. It can be used to get rid of dark spots. The vitamin C and the citric acid present in lemons make it a perfect bleaching agent which can help in lightening the dark spots. This is the most trusted and age-old practice which has shown unfailing results.

The bleaching property of lemon and the cleaning property of yogurt are a great combination to lighten the dark spots and to bring a glow to the face. Sugar has exfoliating properties and can be used as a scrub to remove the dead skin on the face. This gives a refreshed look.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is rich in lactic acid which helps in removing dead skin from your face and lightens your dark spots. Apply buttermilk directly on dark spots with the help of cotton and leave it for 20 minutes. Wash your face with clean water and see the results.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a plant that has many beneficial properties and is one of the best and natural things to improve the quality of the skin. It contains 90% of the amino acids found in the body and also has vitamins A, B, C, and E in it.

Aloe vera plant possesses anti-aging and skin-nourishing properties. It helps in removing dark spots and also reduces discoloration on the skin. It is used as pain relief and also has antiseptic properties. It even works as an excellent moisturizer and therefore can make your skin smooth and soft.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes can be used as a very good skin toner. It brings a natural glow to your face. Tomatoes are not only good when directly applied to the skin but also do wonders when you have it raw. Apply tomato paste on your face like a face pack and leave it for about 10 minutes. You can rinse it with cold water. This makes your skin soft, smooth, and glowing.

Papaya

Papaya has enzymes and mineral elements which are the natural ingredients in removing dark spots. Apply a paste of ripe papaya on your skin and leave it to dry. Rinse with clean water after 20 minutes. You can repeat this method every day for a week and it will help in bringing a glow to your face.

Honey

Applying pure honey on the skin is one of the best ways to get rid of dark spots and it also improves the quality of your skin by making it smooth and soft. Honey helps in maintaining healthy skin and also has hydrating properties.

How long can I leave apple cider vinegar on skin?

As summer arrives, it comes with various skin related problems. As heat of the sun becomes very harsh on our skin and results into many skin related issues like sunburn, sun tan, acne, pimples, spots and other skin infections. It becomes very difficult for us to protect our skin from these problems. So here we are with an ingredient that you can easily find in your kitchens, which can do wonders to your skin. Apple cider vinegar is an ingredient, which has many health as well as skin benefits. It is rich in acetic, citric, malic and amino acid and also contains vitamins, enzymes and mineral salts, which is beneficial for your skin.

Here is how you can use apple cider vinegar for flawless skin:1. Prevents Acne And PimplesIf you are struggling from stubborn acnes and pimples, then keep an apple cider vinegar bottle handy. Due to its antibacterial and antifungal substance, apple cider vinegar helps in keeping your skin pores bacteria, oil and dust free. How To Use:Mix raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar with filtered water in a bowl.Soak a cotton ball in the solution and apply it on the affected skin.Leave it for 10 minutes and then wash it off with warm water.Reapply a few times daily for few days to see the result. (Also Read: Amazing Benefits Of Mushrooms For A Healthy Skin)

skin treatment acneApple cider vinegar helps in keeping your skin pores bacteria, oil and dust free.

2. Heals SunburnApple cider vinegar is known to cure sunburns. It helps to soothe the pain and make the healing process fast.

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How To Use:Mix half a cup apple cider vinegar with 4 cups of water.Douse a wash cloth with the solution and apply to sunburned skin.Massage it for a while.Repeat this several times daily for few days until your condition improves.

sunburnApple cider vinegar is known to cure sunburns.

3. Soothe And Exfoliate SkinApple cider vinegar will soothe your skin and will leave it soft and supple. Its alpha hydroxyl acid removes the dead skin cells and reveals healthy new skin cells.How To Use:Pour some apple cider vinegar in a bathtub of warm water.Be in there for 15-20 minutes.Allow the protective acid to soak into your skin.Follow this routine to maintain the pH levels of your skin.

skin 650Apple cider vinegar will soothe your skin and will leave it soft and supple.

4. Skin TonerApple cider vinegar has astringent properties, which helps in increasing the blood flow to the skin and minimise the pores, a great remedy for the ones with oily skin. It also regulates the pH level of your skin.How To Use:Mix apple cider vinegar with filtered water. You may add few drops of essential oil also.Apply the solution on your skin using cotton ball.Leave it for few minutes, and then rinse it off with cool water.You can use it once or twice a day as per your need.

skinApple cider vinegar regulates the pH level of your skin.

5. Remove Age Spots And Fights WrinklesApple cider vinegar has alpha hydroxyl acids, which helps in removing dead skin and reveals healthy and glowing skin. Not just that, apple cider vinegar also helps in removing the age spots and minimises fine lines and wrinkles.How To Use:Dab a little apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball and apply it directly on the age spot and wrinkles.Leave it for 30 minutes and then wash it off with cool water.Follow this routine twice daily for 6 weeks and you will see the difference.

wrinkle ageingApple cider vinegar helps in removing the age spots and minimises fine lines and wrinkles.

So, now you know the benefits of apple cider vinegar. Don't wait and include this magical portion to your daily beauty regime.

Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Does apple cider vinegar help with back acne?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy for everything from heartburn to appetite control to mole removal.

ACV is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. The result is a pungent, highly acidic vinegar.

It has a variety of uses and has become increasingly popular in the natural health community. It’s believed to have many health benefits, including:

lower blood sugar levels

weight loss

a reduced risk of cancer

Photography by Aya Brackett

However, there’s little research to back up many of these claims.

Some people even say it may help with acne, due to its unique chemical composition. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at apple cider vinegar’s potential benefits for acne, along with some of its risks.

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Potential benefits for acne

Vinegar can kill certain types of bacteria, according to test-tube studies. This happens because of its high acetic acid content, which gives it its acidity. Apple cider vinegar also contains several other organic acids, including (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source):

lactic acid

gallic acid

protocatechuic acid

chlorogenic acid

A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, or Cutibacterium acnes, contributes to acne development. Because ACV has been noted to kill certain strains of bacteria, it may also have some bacteria-killing affects P. acnes (5Trusted Source).

However, there’s been no research investigating the effects of ACV or any type of vinegar on P. acnes, much less studies done in humans rather than test tubes.

In addition, vinegar needs to be highly diluted before being applied to your skin, which would dilute the organic acid concentrations further.

Lactic acid in particular is also used to help reduce the appearance of acne scarring — but again, the small amount in diluted ACV is unlikely to have a significant effect (6Trusted Source).

Finally, vinegar is also thin and unlike creams and serums made specifically for the skin, may not make contact with your skin long enough for the beneficial compounds to be adequately absorbed before it evaporates.

SUMMARY

Although ACV contains organic acids bacteria-killing properties, it’s not clear whether it can kill P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne. Additionally, ACV needs to be diluted before use — which weakens the organic acid concentrations.

Risks of topical ACV

Apple cider vinegar is strongly acidic by nature. Because of this, it may cause burns when applied directly to the skin for long periods of time (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).

In fact, in one study in 22 adults, researchers found that ACV soaks had no positive effects on skin integrity in people with dermatitis — and actually increased irritation in most participants (9Trusted Source).

In most cases, burns occur after ACV has been in contact with the skin for long periods of time. Shorter periods of contact with skin are less likely to cause burns, but they may cause stinging.

So, to prevent skin damage and irritation, ACV should be used only in small amounts and when diluted with water.

You should also avoid using ACV on sensitive skin and open wounds. It’s more likely to cause pain or skin damage in those cases.

SUMMARY

Apple cider vinegar is very acidic. Applying it directly to your skin may cause burns or irritation, and one small study noted that it offered no benefits for skin health.

Should you use ACV to treat acne?

There’s no evidence to support the use of ACV for acne.

It can cause further inflammation and irritation. It may even cause burns if it’s not diluted correctly before applying it to your face.

Because of these factors, topical ACV may do more harm than good in individuals with acne.

To find an acne treatment that works for you, consult with a dermatologist.

SUMMARY

When it comes to at-home acne treatments, ACV may not be the safest choice. At best, it may have no effect or cause some irritation. At worst, it can cause chemical burns to your skin. Talk with a dermatologist to find a more effective and safer acne treatment.

The bottom line

Just one thing

Try this today: Did you know that certain foods may help boost your skin’s health and appearance? Check out our list of the 12 best foods for healthy skin. Try to gradually incorporate more of these foods into your diet to give your skin what it needs to flourish.

Does ACV cause breakouts?

Everything from old habits to new trends can end up causing skin issues, dermatologists say.

Using oil products, picking at pimples, seeing unqualified providers, relying on social media for advice, and using certain ingredients are all things dermatologists wish you would stop doing.

Going overboard with anything — from braiding your hair to using tons of products — can negatively impact your complexion.

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When it comes to skin care, there are things you absolutely should do, like putting on sunscreen and washing your face. But there are also a fair number of things you shouldn't do your skin, hair, and nails. Everything from old habits (like fussing with a fresh pimple) to new trends (think testing novel ingredients) can end up doing more harm than good.

Here are nine habits board-certified dermatologists say to give up now.

Using oil products

The idea of melting away the dirt or makeup on your face with oil sounds luxurious, but Dr. Caren Campbell, a dermatologist in California, told INSIDER it can cause breakouts. She's even seen a surge of acne from patients using these trendy products.

"One of the major reasons we get acne when we hit puberty is our bodies' hormones cause more oil production, which creates a hospitable environment for acne bacteria," she said. "Putting oils on the face only aids in creating that ideal environment for acne."

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Picking at acne

We get it: You see a pimple on your face and you just want to pick it off. It's a tempting thought, but Dr. Robert Finney, a dermatologist in New York, said that it will only make the issue worse. "Not only does it make the breakout worse by further rupturing the follicle beneath the surface of the skin, but you can also create scars," he said. Translation: Hands off.

Applying apple cider vinegar to your face

One of the biggest misconceptions that people have about skin care? That natural is always better, said Dr. Brenda Dintiman, a dermatologist in Virginia. Turns out, some natural ingredients can end up causing some serious problems, and apple cider vinegar is one of the biggest offenders. "The apple cider vinegar acts as a harsh remover of the skin's protective layer, leaving it vulnerable and red," Dintiman said.

Read more: 4 things you could do with apple cider vinegar that will make you gorgeous — and one thing you shouldn't

Seeing unqualified providers

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a dermatologist in New York, has treated a lot of patients with complications from complex procedures done by unqualified providers. "It's turned into the wild wild west unfortunately, and it's terrifying," he told INSIDER.

Bhanusali has seen side effects including scars and nodules, but they can be worse. His advice? See a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon if you're considering a cosmetic procedure.

Relying on social media for skin advice

You may love turning to your favorite beauty blogger for skin care tips, but remember her skin isn't yours. "There are a lot of great products people recommend, but they may not be best for your skin type," Bhanusali said. One of his recent patients used an exfoliating alpha hydroxy peel she saw on Instagram, which left her with raw skin and dark spots. "Unfortunately, the concentration was too strong for her skin type," Bhanusali said. Again, see a board-certified dermatologist for skin advice.

music festival braids

Consistently wearing tight braids can raise your risk of permanent hair loss. Mark Davis/Getty Images for Coachella

Consistently putting your hair in tight braids

You may love putting your hair into tight braids before you hit the gym, go to a music festival, or go to work on mornings you don't have time to shower. But Dr. Anand Haryani, a dermatologist in Florida, told INSIDER that consistently sporting plaits is one of the worst things you can do to your hair. "It may be fashionable, but it can lead to permanent hair loss," he said.

Using black salve

Texas-based dermatologist Dr. Laura Haygood wishes patients would steer clear of black salve, which is touted as a skin cancer remedy. In reality, Haygood said, "it's a highly destructive chemical that creates large wounds and is a completely ineffective for treatment of suspected skin cancers."

On top of the fact that it causes wounds, black salve fools patients into thinking they are taking care of their undiagnosed skin cancer. If you're worried you may have skin cancer, see a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible.

Using too many products

You don't need dozens of steps in your skin care routine to get a glowing complexion. "There's no need to buy 1,000 products," Bhanusali said. "A good base has three to five products or so and is consistent."

Scrubbing your face too hard

There are two different kinds of exfoliation: mechanical and chemical, said Dr. Charlotte Birnbaum, a dermatologist in New York. Mechanical exfoliation involves physically removing your dead skin cells with a brush or scrub. That "can be too harsh on the skin and can actually lead to redness, dark spots, and acne breakouts — the exact opposite of what we want," Birnbaum said. If you really want to exfoliate your face effectively and safely, use a chemical exfoliant instead.

Can apple cider vinegar hurt your skin?

Proponents of apple cider vinegar believe that it can treat anything from weight loss to diabetes. They also think that it may have some benefits for the face, such as helping with skin blemishes and sunburn. However, there is little evidence to confirm this.

Using apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a treatment for various ailments has a long history. It appears in the Old Testament, and the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates mentions using a combination of ACV and honey as a treatment for open wounds.

Although many claims about the healing properties of ACV abound, there is little evidence to support them.

This article will discuss whether ACV has benefits for the face.

What is in it that may help the skin?

There is little evidence that apple cider vinegar provides any benefits for the face.

ACV is mostly fermented sugar from apples. Making ACV involves crushing apples and adding yeast to start the fermentation.

The fermentation process produces acetic acid, which gives the vinegar its tangy taste and strong smell.

Acetic acid has antibacterial and antifungal properties. These properties could help clean the skin and prevent infections from bacteria or fungi.

Many studies have examined how ACV affects the skin. But there is still little evidence that it has any benefit.

The skin has a slightly acidic natural barrier, which helps keep it healthy. According to the National Eczema Association, using regular soaps, shampoos, and cosmetic products might reduce the acidity of the skin’s barrier and stop it from working correctly.

When the barrier is damaged, the skin is more prone to dryness and irritation. Some supporters think that applying diluted ACV to the skin might restore the skin’s acidity and support the barrier and protect the skin.

Does it work?

A 2019 studyTrusted Source that involved people with eczema soaking one forearm in diluted ACV and the other in water daily for 14 days found no improvement in the skin barrier.

In the same study, most participants also reported skin irritation from the ACV. Participants using water had no skin irritation.

However, another study in 2018Trusted Source found that ACV might have some antimicrobial properties. The study showed it could reduce the impact of harmful bacteria on the skin.

However, this study was in cultured cells rather than living humans.

It will be necessary for researchers to carry out more research to work out if there are any benefits to using ACV on the skin.

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What skin conditions can it treat?

There is still no conclusive evidence that ACV can treat skin conditions. But some people might still experience benefits from using it for conditions that include eczema and sunburn.

Anyone with eczema or sunburn should speak to a doctor before using ACV. The acetic acid could cause further skin irritation.

Some people also use ACV as a skin cleanser or toner. Apple cider vinegar can cause skin cells to shrink, tightening the skin.

Some bacteria are necessary to keep the skin healthy. Using strong concentrations of ACV could strip away this good bacteria on the skin and cause irritation.

The antimicrobial properties of ACV could treat acne. When diluted correctly, ACV could reduce bacteria on the skin that worsen acne, but there is no scientific evidence to confirm this.

Like salicylic or glycolic acid, diluted ACV could be useful as a chemical peel to treat acne scars. To avoid complications, discuss with a skin professional before using ACV in this way.

Careful use of diluted ACV might have some benefits for skin conditions.

How to use it

According to the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, one method of using apple cider vinegar is to add it to a bath. Pour 3 or 4Trusted Source cups of apple cider vinegar into bath half full of water. This amount is enough to dilute the acid.

5 MAJOR Changes To My Skincare Routine

Due to its high acidity, ACV should be diluted before a person applies it to the skin.For treating acne, apply the solution directly to acne spots, before rinsing it off.

If the skin feels dry or irritated after using an ACV solution, stop using and it and try a different treatment.

Some people believe ACV can soothe sunburn. Soak some cotton wool in a diluted solution of ACV and water. Gently apply this solution to the sunburn.

However, there is no scientific evidence to confirm that ACV is beneficial for acne or sunburn. Talk to a doctor or a dermatologist before using ACV on the skin.

Side effects

Using undiluted ACV can cause a chemical burn. According to a report in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic DermatologyTrusted Source, a teenager presented with chemical scarring on their nose after using ACV to remove moles.

In another case, reported in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, a boy received chemical burns from the application of ACV to his skin. The boy also experienced fever, alongside the burns.

Even diluted solutions of ACV can cause skin irritation and dryness.

Summary

There is no scientific evidence that applying ACV directly to the skin has any benefit. But may people advocate its usefulness, and research on the topic is still ongoing.

ACV can cause skin irritation, dryness, and damage. Never apply it without diluting it in water first. However, diluting the vinegar does not guarantee its safety, and it can still cause harm.

It is best to consult with a dermatologist before using ACV on the skin.

Can ACV help acne scars?

Acne is a common problem affecting nearly 85 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 24. Acne appears when the pores get clogged by oil (sebum), dirt, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

Most people experience acne during their teen years due to fluctuating hormones, but the acne clears up after a few years.

For others —especially those with nodules or cysts —an acne breakout may penetrate the skin deeply and damage the tissues beneath it, leaving behind discolored skin and scars. The scars can look like wide or narrow depressions on the skin (atrophic scars) or raised areas that stand above the surface of the skin (hypertrophic scars).

Some claim that apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help acne scars due to its high acidic content. Apple cider vinegar comes from the fermented juice of apples and can be found easily in supermarkets.

The acids in ACV may help reduce the appearance of scars by removing the damaged, outer layers of the skin and promoting regeneration. This process is often referred to as “chemical peeling.”

Though little research is available, a few small studies have yielded promising results for this at-home remedy.

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Apple cider vinegar for scars

ACV contains acetic, citric, lactic, and succinic acid. It’s strongly acidic by nature and therefore should be used with caution on the skin.

The acids in ACV can cause burns when applied directly to the skin for long periods of time. For this reason, you should dilute the vinegar with water and only apply the small amounts at a time. Avoid applying it to open wounds or to sensitive skin.

Though more research is needed to confirm these effects, the acids in ACV may reduce the appearance of scars.

For example, a 2014 studyTrusted Source showed that succinic acid suppressed inflammation caused by Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium that contributes to acne. This may help prevent scarring.

Lactic acid was found to improve the texture, pigmentation, and appearance of skin in one studyTrusted Source of seven people with acne scars.

ACV diluted with water is the simplest recipe, but there are several other ingredients you can add to the vinegar for alleged extra benefits.

ACV and water

The simplest recipe is to dilute the apple cider vinegar with water before applying it to your scars.

Follow these steps:

clean your face with mild face wash and pat dry

mix 1 part ACV with 2 to 3 parts water

gently apply the mixture to the scar using a cotton ball

let sit for 5 to 20 seconds, or longer if it doesn’t irritate your skin

rinse with water and pat dry

You can repeat this process once or twice per day and continue using it until you see results. For some people, this could take a month or more.

There is still a risk of irritating or burning the skin with this recipe, especially if you have sensitive skin. If this is the case, try diluting the vinegar with more water before applying it. You may also find that your skin becomes very dry after use. If this is the case, apply a moisturizer to your skin after it dries.

ACV and tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and may reduce the amount and overall severity of acne.

One small 2013 studyTrusted Source found that applying tea tree oil can enhance skin healing, but research on tea tree oil for acne scars is lacking.

Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to ACV may at the very least help manage acne breakouts and reduce the risk of scarring, but more research is needed.

Don’t use tea tree oil if you’ve had reactions to it in the past, including any redness, hives, or a rash.

ACV and honey

Honey is used for numerous medicinal purposes due to its natural antibacterial properties. A 2012 studyshowed that directly applying honey to the skin can help with wound clearing and cleansing. Add a spoonful or so of honey to your diluted ACV before applying it to your scars.

ACV and lemon juice

Lemon juice is another acid that may help with acne scarring, though no research exists to prove these claims. Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants are believed to help fight free radicals in the skin and also to boost collagen levels.

Advocates claim that when applied directly to acne scars, lemon juice reduces discoloration and evens out the skin tone. You can add a few drops to your already diluted ACV and apply it directly to scars.

Like ACV, lemon juice is highly acidic and can lead to dryness, burning, or stinging of the skin. It can also increase your risk of sunburn.

ACV and aloe vera

Aloe vera is another common home remedy used in the wound healing process. It’s often employed to help with burns, including sunburns. According to a 2016 studyTrusted Source in rats, applying aloe vera directly to wounds reduced inflammation and decreased scar tissue size.

You can find aloe vera gels at drugstores, or you can grow the plant yourself. The sticky gel is found inside the leaves. Mix it with the diluted ACV and apply directly to the scar.

When to see a doctor

If you have many scars from your acne, or you find your scars bothersome, it’s important to see a dermatologist before you start any home treatments.

A dermatologist can suggest the best method to reduce the appearance of your scars. They can also confirm that the marks on your skin are actually scars and didn’t arise from another condition.

It’s essential that you also treat the underlying cause of your acne along with the scars. New breakouts can cause more scarring. You should try your best to avoid picking, popping, or squeezing blemishes, as this can lead to more scars.

A dermatologist can prescribe a more targeted and effective treatment for both acne and acne scars, such as:

alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

lactic acid

retinoids (preformed vitamin A)

glycolic acid

There is also a variety of in-office procedures that can help reduce the appearance of scars, such as:

dermabrasion

chemical peels

microneedling

laser resurfacing

dermal fillers

corticosteroid injections

botulinum toxin (Botox) injections

Scars that are deep or very raised may require a minor surgery to reduce their appearance.

Keep in mind that these procedures can be expensive, especially if your health insurance doesn’t cover it.

Takeaway

Acne scars can be awfully stubborn, and what works for one person may not work for another. There’s some evidence that apple cider vinegar may help reduce the appearance of acne scars for some individuals.

However, improper use of ACV can cause skin damage and burns, so it should be used with caution. Due to high acidity, ACV should always be diluted before it’s applied to the skin.

Apple cider vinegar isn’t proven to get rid of scars, but it’s less expensive than modern medical treatments, and is generally safe if diluted properly. In other words, it probably won’t hurt to give it a try.

In theory, mixing ACV with other home remedies, like honey, aloe, or lemon juice, may accelerate the healing process, but there’s no research to prove these claims.

If you use apple cider vinegar for more than a month and see no improvement, discontinue use.More severe acne scars will require a more rigorous treatment plan from a dermatologist.Before starting any new treatment, you should discuss the pros and cons with a doctor.

Can I leave apple cider vinegar on my face overnight?

Leave it to the internet to give us wild ideas on what to slather on our skin as the latest pore minimizer or pimple destroyer. Unfortunately not everything we see from beauty bloggers and Instagram influencers is sage advice.

You’ve likely seen some of these ingredients in store-bought products — but when used alone or without proper sanitation and diluting methods, they have the potential to damage skin, especially over time.

Think twice about DIY methods from your fridge and pantry. Just because something is natural or raw doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin.

We’ve debunked these ingredients that range from gritty to goopy to gross so that you don’t have to give them a test drive.

1. Egg whites

Oh how convenient it would be to make your morning omelet, slick a little raw egg on your face, and then go about your day with tightened pores and smooth skin. That’s the claim made by proponents of the egg white face mask.

Lowest-risk scenario: Any tightening benefits will wash down the drain when you rinse off the residue.

Most serious potential: A crack in the concept is that raw egg can be contaminated with Salmonella. By placing uncooked egg so close to your mouth, you run the risk of contracting a gastrointestinal tract infection.

A localized infection on the skin is also possible, and the danger is upped when applying to open wounds — like for instance if you’ve got a scratch from Kitty or a few healing blemishes.

Plus, the contaminant can hang around on surfaces for several hours, making your bathroom a health hazard.

However, contracting Salmonella from raw eggs is rare, especially if you’re using pasteurized eggs from the store rather than ones sourced straight from your backyard cluckers.

2. Lemon or lime juice

A squirt of lemon or lime juice on an acne scar, or any hyperpigmentation, is said to lighten the blemish.

Lowest-risk scenario: You’ll feel a sting and maybe reap the benefits of a little fruit juice exfoliation.

Most serious potential: The use of citrus fruits on the skin could leave you with bigger worries, like a second-degree burn.

The psoralens in lemons and limes can cause a phototoxic reaction on your skin when it’s exposed to UV light. That means your attempt to fade a red spot could result in a big blister.

The rash or burn, called phytophotodermatitis, often appears one to three days after you’ve gotten some sun — and it could last for months. Talk about the juice not being worth the squeeze!

3. Cinnamon

The “cinna-mask” gained notoriety after a beauty blogger, who goes by EnjoyPhoenix, extolled cinnamon’s purifying power. But this red spice may not play nice on your face.

Lowest-risk scenario: You’ll feel a tingling sensation and experience some redness.

Most serious potential: Several people who tried the cinnamon facial later posted about burns.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR CLEARED MY ACNE | Grace Jennings

Although cinnamon does have some antimicrobial benefits and is used in wound healing, it’s also one of the more common spice allergies. And even if you don’t have a known allergy to cinnamon, you may still be hypersensitive to the spice on your skin or sustain a burn from cinnamon oil.

If you’re tempted to use cinnamon or any spice in a DIY mask, always do a patch test on a tiny spot in front of your earlobe.

TAKE THE SAME CAUTION WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Many essential oils provide therapeutic benefits, but like cinnamon, can burn or cause unwanted side effects. Most ingredients, including the ones listed, should be diluted in at least a 1:1 ratio before topical application.

4. Breast milk

Breast milk facials have become the rage at some spas in recent years to treat acne. Breast milk contains lactic and lauric acids, both of which have skin healing and antimicrobial benefits that some studies show have helped pimple-prone skin.

This information has prompted some folks to turn to their postpartum pals to pump a steady supply.

Lowest-risk scenario: You’ll notice a minimal reduction in irritation and sit there wondering why you have your besties’ breast milk on your face.

Most serious potential: Breast milk is a bodily fluid that can transfer disease, and improper collection or storage could invite a bacterial infection.

If you do head to the spa for a breast milk mask, ask about the facility’s supply source and its safety practices.

5. Semen

What happens in the bedroom is your business — but if you’re promoting the bottling of bodily fluids to baste on your face, it’s not a private issue anymore.

The semen facial blew onto the beauty scene in 2014 when lifestyle blogger Tracy Kiss posted a video touting the moisturizing, calming, and additional “benefits” that ejaculate had on her rosacea.

Others jumped on the bandwagon, stating semen stopped their acne. These claims have no scientific evidence, and dermatologists have widely debunked the concept.

Lowest-risk scenario: You’ll experience minimally softer skin and a whole lot of questions from your roomie about how you got your new skincare product.

“Looking at the semen ingredients,” says Yoram Harth, board-certified dermatologist and medical director of MDacne, “there is nothing that can help with acne for the long-term. The proteolytic enzyme may, in theory, cause some exfoliation of the skin, but this effect would be minimal and insignificant.”

Most serious potential: The blogger who started the viral trend said she sourced the semen from a friend, but this is a dangerous practice. Several sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be passed through mucous membranes, and many go undiagnosed.

Additionally, some people have a semen allergy and experience symptoms ranging from a burning sensation to anaphylaxis when their skin comes into contact with it.

“There are many better, safer, and more effective treatments for acne that one can choose from,” Harth adds.

6. Urine

Some folks going for a golden glow have gleaned their urine as their go-to astringent or toner.

The theory behind the “pee facial” is that the urea and uric acid in one’s stream will do everything from hydrate skin and tighten pores to nix acne.

Lowest-risk scenario: Nothing will happen, except for wasted bathroom time. The efforts of the pee facial are really a wash. Urine is approximately 98 percent water.

Certain skin products do contain urea to help with conditions like acne or psoriasis. However, the urea is synthetic and of a higher concentration than what’s found in human waste.

Most serious potential: Applying and leaving urine on the face, especially on inflamed skin, may invite infection.

ResearchersTrusted Source warn that, although urine is sterile, once it’s left the body it has the potential to grow bacteria.

7. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been touted as the holy grail of DIY astringents. Users claim it helps clear acne, fade blemish scars or age spots, and even remove moles.

Lowest-risk scenario: Using ACV on your face will induce a stinging sensation and make you wince at the skunky smell. If ACV has saved your skin and you can’t use another option, dilute your ACV for safety.

Most serious potential: Long-term, undiluted ACV use could corrode your lovely face due to its highly acidic levels. Vinegar can be caustic if you leave it on your skin, and it shouldn’t be used to treat wounds.

Any acne sores are at risk for incurring a burn or major irritation. Plus, using ACV as a facial product puts your peepers at risk. If you get it in your eyes, you could experience inflammation or even a cornea burn.

Try these safe-for-face products instead

While it’s tempting to find DIY solutions to our skin concerns, some ingredients just aren’t facial friendly.

When a natural ingredient is an actual glow booster, hydration helper, or irritation aid, it’s best used as a store-bought or prescribed product that has been thoroughly tested and safely diluted, packaged, and stored.

If you’re interested in the “pee facial” for example, just try the Eucerin line, which has long used synthetic urea to combat skin conditions. Or if you want the brightening and skin tone-evening benefits of citrus without the potential burn, opt for this lime wash from Ursa Major.

Look into exfoliating acids, holistic acne treatments, and ways to minimize your routine.

Leave the mixing and testing to product manufacturers. Taking ingredients from your fridge to your bathroom — or vice versa — creates risks of contamination, infection, or damage that could make the skin issue you’re trying to solve way worse.

Jennifer Chesakis a Nashville-based freelance book editor and writing instructor. She’s also an adventure, fitness, and health writer for several national publications. She earned her Master of Science in journalism from Northwestern’s Medill and is working on her first fiction novel, set in her native state of North Dakota.

How long does apple cider vinegar take to remove dark spots?

Are you searching for a way to get rid of dark spots? As per experts, hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, can be caused by acne scars, excessive sun exposure, or hormonal changes. There are a variety of creams and serums available in the market that you can use to lighten the dark areas over time. But each of these treatment options come with some risks. However, there are a couple of home remedies that can be found in the kitchen to clear dark spots.

Now before applying these homemade natural remedies on your entire face make sure you always conduct a patch test for sensitivity. Natural ingredients can help you prevent hyperpigmentation and stimulate skin renewal. Here are some natural remedies you can opt to get rid of dark spots.

Aloe vera gel for dark spots

Aloe vera is the jack of all trades, from helping to heal wounds to moisturizing. You can use its goodness to remove dark spots from your face. You can use aloe vera straight from the plant or you can purchase aloe vera gel from the market.

To use this, apply aloe vera juice or natural aloe vera gel directly on the hyperpigmented area of skin you'd like to treat up. Let it sit for 30 minutes in the morning and evening. Wash your face with lukewarm water.

You can even make a pack with aloe vera gel. To make a pack - take the gel out from the leaf of an aloe vera plant. Next, add some freshly grated cucumber, lemon juice, 1tsp of sandalwood powder and mix it well. Apply this on the skin and let it dry completely ad then wash off with ice-cold water and pat dry. It will show dramatic results in helping improve dark spots and pigmentation.

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Buttermilk for dark spots

Buttermilk is one of the oldest remedies which helps in removing dead skin from your face and lightens your dark spots. Buttermilk is rich in lactic acid, you just need to apply buttermilk to dark spots and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Next, rinse with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer.

In case, if you have oily skin or suffering from acne add a little lemon or lime juice. Take 2 teaspoons of buttermilk and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix the buttermilk and the juice. Apply to the skin and let this sit on the dark spots for 15 minutes before washing the areas.

Turmeric powder for dark spots

Turmeric powder is absolutely a wonder ingredient that lightens dark spots. You need to combine turmeric with other resources to get fast results. Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 1-2 teaspoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.

Mix these three ingredients until it forms a paste. Leave this on for 20 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water and don't forget to apply moisturizer. You can continue this routine daily for two weeks and you will see a big difference in no time.

Apple cider vinegar for dark spots

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that may help lighten skin pigmentation and improve the overall appearance of your skin. To use this remedy you need to mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl. Apply to your dark patches and leave on 5 to 7 minutes. Next, rinse off with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer. If you wish you can also trying mix a few drops of lemon juice with the vinegar.

Miracle Acne Cure - Apple Cider Vinegar ❤

Sandalwood for dark spots

Sandalwood is a popular beauty remedy. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing blemishes and treating acne. You just need to combine 1 teaspoon sandalwood powder, add few drops of coconut oil and orange juice. Mix them well; you can even add enough orange juice until you get a smooth paste. Apply to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer.

Papaya for dark spots

Papaya contains enzymes called papain that can balance skin tones and exfoliates the skin. Peel and remove the seeds from green papaya. Use the pulp of the papaya. Apply on the affected area for 20-30 minutes in the morning and before going to bed. Rinse with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer.

Take a conservative approach before using any of these beauty remedies. First, apply a small amount to your face and leave it on for a short amount of time. If you feel any discomfort or a burning sensation rinse off the mixture immediately. However, keep in mind that while you are using these natural remedies to diminish dark spots do your very best to limit your sun exposure.

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Is apple cider vinegar good for blackheads?

The tiny little black dots on your nose and face can be overwhelming, especially when they seem to appear overnight! In reality, blackheads are a result of the pollution in the air, the dust flying and settled in the surrounding and the stress of daily life. They occur due to clogged skin pores when these pores accumulate dust, dead skin cells, and oil. One of the most common methods used for Blackhead Removal is squeezing them out, but the pain one feels during the process is too high a price to pay!

How to remove tons of Blackheads? Take a look at some of the remedies in this video:

Also, blackheads contain bacteria which can affect the tissues in the surrounding skin. We bring you some of the best natural remedies using easy ingredients and methods to blackheads Removal, cleanse your pores and also improve the skin. You must ensure that when you are trying any remedy at home, try a patch test first. Also, do not scrub your skin excessively, which will damage it.

Simple and Effective Natural Remedies for Blackheads Removal

Let’s take a look at the home remedies we promised you. Try these for fast results!

1. How Can Lemon and Honey Help In Blackhead Removal?

2. How Can Aloe Vera Gel Help In Blackhead Removal?

3. Can Fenugreek (methi) Work For Blackhead Removal?

4. Will Coconut Oil Work for Blackhead Removal?

5. Can Blackheads Be Removed With Apple Cider Vinegar?

6. How Can Turmeric And Mint Juice Work For Blackhead Removal?

7. Will Tomato Pulp Help In Blackhead Removal?

8. Can Green Tea Offer A Natural Way For Blackhead Removal?

9. Will Strawberry Pulp Help In Blackhead Removal?

10. How Can Baking Soda Help To Remove Blackheads?

11. Will Oatmeal Scrub Assist In Blackhead Removal?

12. FAQs: Blackheads Removal

How Can Lemon and Honey Help In Blackhead Removal?

Lemon and Honey for Blackhead Removal

Citric acid is effective for unclogging your pores and can make your skin smoother, thus removing blackheads. The citric acid in the lemon juice will have a similar effect on your skin. Honey has excellent antibacterial and cleansing properties. The sugar in the mix will work as a scrub to exfoliate your skin.

What to do: You need to mix a tablespoon of honey with a tablespoon of raw honey. To that, add a tablespoon of sugar crystals, and mix well. Immediately apply it to on areas of your skin which are affected by blackheads. You will have to leave in on for at least 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it off gently with warm water. If you rub hard when washing your face, it will cause irritation.

How should you do it: Initially you can do it every day for a few days until your skin clears up. Then, to keep up the routine, try and do it once a week, to keep your skin free of blackheads.

Tip: Make this scrub fresh when you have to use it. Letting it stand will cause the sugar to melt.

How Can Aloe Vera Gel Help In Blackhead Removal?

Aloe Vera Gel for Blackhead Removal

Aloe vera has natural properties in abundance and works as a cooling agent for the skin. It has also become a very popular skincare ingredient over the years. It is soothing for the skin and works well for cleansing pores and blackhead removal. And the added advantage is that it controls the natural oil (sebum) production in the skin, thus preventing the development of new blackheads.

What to do: Freshly extracted gel works best for this. Apply the freshly extracted gel gently over your face. You don't have to selectively apply it on affected areas since it will do good to your skin anyways. After about 10 to 15 minutes, rinse it off with warm water.

How often: Since aloe vera gel is not known to have any side effects, you can do this on a daily basis. If you don’t have the time, you can do it thrice a week.

Tip: In case you don’t have access, you can use a store-bought product.

Can Fenugreek (methi) Work For Blackhead Removal?

Methi leaves have excellent properties not only when consumed, but also for the skin! It is known to cure digestive problems and increase the production of milk in lactating mothers. It is a powerful antioxidant and also known to soothe inflammation on the skin, and clear blackheads as well as whiteheads.

What to do: Select the freshest leaves you can find in the market. Take a cup of the leaves, wash them thoroughly and grind the leaves with some water into a thick smooth paste. Apply this paste on your face and rinse it off with warm water after about 10 or 15 minutes. After rinsing it off, dab it dry with a soft towel and apply moisturiser.

How often: You can use this treatment on a weekly basis...

Tip: On days that you can’t find fresh methi leaves in the market, you can use methi seeds. You can also soak them overnight before using them.

Will Coconut Oil Work for Blackhead Removal?

Coconut Oil for Blackhead Removal

It’s one of those universal ingredients that have multiple health benefits, including several for the skin. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a strong antimicrobial agent that destroys the bacteria that cause blackheads and acne. For those who suffer from dry skin, it has a moisturising effect on the skin.

What you can do: There is no preamble to the process, you can use the oil directly from the bottle. Take a few drops on your palms, apply it on your face, and massage it in with gentle strokes. If you don’t have any plans after you apply the oil, then there’s no need to rinse it off, since the skin will quickly absorb it. In case you want to rinse it off, you can after 15 minutes, with a mild face wash and lukewarm water.

How often: If you have dry skin, you can use if twice or thrice a week, and more often in winters. If you have oily skin, avoid this treatment as I increase the sebum levels.

Tip: For best results, use virgin coconut oil, and leave it overnight on your skin.

Can Blackheads Be Removed With Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple Cider Vinegar for Blackheads Removal

Apple cider vinegar is excellent for removing blackheads. It has a strong antimicrobial effect, which effectively makes it eliminate even some of the most dangerous bacteria.

What to do: Take a few drops of apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball or pad and gently dab it on the affected regions of your face. Once it dries, in about 15 or 20 minutes, you can rinse it off with warm water.

How often: It has numerous skin benefits, so you can use apple cider every day until your skin clears up. Then, to keep up with the routine, you can use it once a week to keep up with the routine.

Tip: Don’t forget to apply lotion after washing it off, so keep your skin moisturised.

How Can Turmeric And Mint Juice Work For Blackhead Removal?

Turmeric and Mint Juice for Blackhead Removal

It is age-old Indian wisdom that turmeric is a great healing agent with antiseptic properties. It is antimicrobial in nature and removes the bacteria present in the skin’s pores, thereby eliminating blackheads. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and for improving the quality and the texture of the skin. Mint juice has a cooling effect on the skin and soothes it.

How to do it: Mix a tablespoon of pure turmeric powder with two tablespoons of fresh mint juice, to form a smooth paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse it with lukewarm water. Once you rinse it off, do not forget to moisturise the skin.

How often: You can safely use this remedy once a week.

Tip: If you do not have mint leaves handy or don’t have the time to make fresh mint juice, you can use milk instead.

Will Tomato Pulp Help In Blackhead Removal?

Tomato Pulp for Blackhead Removal

This is a remedy with a difference since tomatoes have natural antibacterial properties that dry up blackheads. It is also known for its strong antioxidant properties and removes a lot of damaging elements from the skin.

What to do: Peel and mash a soft red tomato and apply the pulp over the areas affected with blackheads. If you have very sensitive skin, either dilute the pulp with water or use another method. You need to leave it on for at least 30 to 45 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.

How often: You can safely do this every day, but if you lack the time, at least try doing it thrice every week.

Tip: For best results, apply the pulp before going to bed, and leave it overnight, washing it off only in the morning.

Can Green Tea Offer A Natural Way For Blackhead Removal?

Green Tea for Blackhead Removal

Extremely rich in antioxidants, green tea is known to clear up your skin, giving it a natural and healthy glow. It also is known for absorbing impurities when applied to the skin, thereby clearing blackheads effectively.

What you need to do: Grind one teaspoon of dry green tea leaves with a tablespoon (or a few drops more) of water to make a paste. Apply this paste over the affected areas, rinsing it off within 15 or 20 minutes with warm water. Moisturise immediately after drying the skin.

How often: You can start with twice a week, and when the skin clears up, you can continue with the routine once a week.

Tip: Use a small mortar and pestle to make a coarse paste which works effectively.

Will Strawberry Pulp Help In Blackhead Removal?

Strawberry Pulp for Blackhead Removal

Yes, along with being really delicious, they are well suited to remove blackheads. Strawberries are high in antioxidants, and they cleanse blocked pores. Due to the seeds, the pulp also works as a natural exfoliant.

What to do: Crush a soft red strawberry and mix half a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of lemon juice with it. Apply this paste for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with tap (room temperature) water.

How often: It can be done once a week.

Tip: You can use strawberry pulp by itself or natural milk cream (malai) as well.

How Can Baking Soda Help To Remove Blackheads?

Baking Soda for Remove Blackheads

Baking soda, apart from working well in your kitchen, is also a known antibacterial and antifungal agent. In addition, it makes for an effective remedy for blackhead removal and works as a great skin exfoliant as well. It works well to keep pimples away.

What to do: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water to make a fine paste. Apply this paste over the affected areas, washing it off with lukewarm water after about 15 to 20 minutes. Don’t forget to moisturise immediately after!

How often: You can start doing it every day, and then come down to twice or thrice a week once the skin clears up.

Tip: Add a few drops of lemon to the baking soda paste better effect.

Will Oatmeal Scrub Assist In Blackhead Removal?

Oatmeal Scrub for Blackhead Removal

WORST DIY Pigmentation Remedies DOCTOR V| BROWN/ DARK Skin of Colour | Dr V #SOC

Exfoliation plays a great role where removal of blackheads is concerned. Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells from their roots. For this purpose, oatmeal is an excellent ingredient since it has anti-inflammatory properties. You can mix is with a variety of things, like milk, yogurt, lemon juice and water or lemon juice and honey, or olive oil.

What to do: Mix two tablespoons of ground oatmeal with two tablespoons of plain yogurt. Add to this a few drops of lemon juice and a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply this on your entire face as the ingredients have some great properties for the skin. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.

How often: You can do this twice or thrice a week.

Tip: You can substitute the oatmeal with ground almond powder, wheat bran or even chickpea flour (besan).

FAQs: Blackheads Removal

Q. On which parts of the body can we get blackheads?

A. Blackheads are a type of acne that commonly appear on the face and nose. However, they can also appear on the chest, arms, back, and shoulders. You should keep a lookout for them, and every once in while indulge in an effective body treatment that will get rid of all the blackheads on your body. In addition, look into the treatments for whiteheads as well.

Q. Does squeezing them out cause any harm?

A. Squeezing any part of the skin is never a good idea since there is always a chance that you will harm your skin. Squeezing might also increase the chances of infection, and may leave a scar on the skin.

Q. Can we scrub blackheads out?

A. Blackheads cannot be scrubbed away. They are too deep in the pores to be removed by scrubbing. Rubbing or scrubbing hard only causes irritation. And this, in turn, can lead to increased sebum production.

How does apple cider vinegar clear your face?

We know apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for white wine and as an effective swap for our go-to shampoo. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the natural ingredient packs a ton of benefits that can keep our skin looking and feeling clean, smooth and healthy. Don’t believe us? Here are four ways to use apple cider vinegar for your face. You’ll thank us later.

What is apple cider vinegar?

ACV is a vinegar created by apples that have undergone the fermentation process. When apples are exposed to yeast, the sugar is turned into alcohol and then bacteria turn the liquid into acetic acid. ACV is rich in proteins, enzymes and acids including malic, amino, acetic and even a popular go-to, alpha hydroxyl acids, aka AHAs.

What are the skincare benefits of using apple cider vinegar?

The multiple compounds found in ACV come together to balance out the skin. From preventing acne to minimizing wrinkles, the liquid has been a trusted beauty staple for centuries. Keep in mind, there are not many published studies that prove these results, but many theories believe that the properties of ACV do provide an array of benefits.

OK, so how do I use ACV to improve my complexion?

There are four ways to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your skincare routine: spot treatment, toner, cleanser and face mask. The best part? All you’ll need is a bottle of ACV and water. Oh, and don’t forget just a bit of patience when using any of the below DIY methods.

1. Spot Treatment

ACV’s antibacterial and antifungal properties make it easy to say buh-bye to annoying pimples while reducing the chances of additional breakouts. A dab of apple cider vinegar can remove any bacteria, oil or dust clogging your pores. Just mix one tablespoon of ACV and two tablespoons of purified water together before soaking it in a cotton pad or ball and applying a small amount to the affected areas. Do this two to three times a week for the best results.

2. Toner

Apple cider vinegar’s astringent properties help maintain the skin’s pH levels. In particular, AHAs work to exfoliate, brighten and smooth the skin. Its properties can remove dead skin cells, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and help with scarring and pigmentation (such as dark spots or redness).

Combine one tablespoon of ACV with two cups of water, then soak a cotton ball in the mixture and pat it onto your face. You can also fill up a spray bottle with ACV and water, and spray away. (Who doesn’t love a hydrating mist?) Now, ACV doesn’t have the best smell, so it’s totally up to you if you want to add a few drops of an essential oil to give it a more pleasant scent. We’d suggest trying tea tree, lavender or chamomile. Leave the toner on for one to two minutes before rinsing off with warm water and applying a moisturizer. Start off using this once a week before working it into your daily routine and increasing the time the toner stays on your face, without exceeding 15 minutes.

3. Cleanser

As we mentioned before, ACV does a stellar job at removing excess oil, dirt or product buildup, which is exactly what we also look for in a cleanser. The malic acid found in ACV works to unclog pores, lighten dark spots and overall balance your skin’s pH levels. Just mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with ¼ cup of warm water and massage the mixture into your skin. After a few seconds, rinse it off with cool water. You can also add a tablespoon of ACV into almost any cleanser, for the same benefits.

4. Face Mask

Give your skin some TLC with an ACV face mask. Just combine it with another oil-balancing ingredient, like bentonite clay, which helps to tighten, cleanse and tone the skin. Mix two tablespoons of bentonite clay, two tablespoons of water and one tablespoon of ACV together before applying it as a thin layer onto your face. Let it sit for five to 10 minutes for sensitive skin or 15 to 30 minutes for normal skin before rinsing with cool water and applying a moisturizer. Try this face mask bi-weekly, especially if you’re trying bentonite clay for the first time.

Is it really safe to use apple cider vinegar on your face?

While all skin types can benefit from using apple cider vinegar, acne-prone and oily skin should take advantage of this natural product more. However, it can be too acidic for those with sensitive skin and can leave skin feeling dry and irritated. It’s best to do a patch test on your jawline, chin or wrist before trying any of the ways above. If you don’t want to take that risk, consult with your dermatologist or medical provider first.

Why is adding water to ACV so important?

Remember to always, always, always dilute ACV with water before applying it to your face, regardless of skin type. Skipping this skin can result in burning your skin or making breakouts even worse because of the liquid’s acetic acid component (which makes up about six percent but has strong acidic properties). Whether you’re creating a cleanser, toner, spot treatment or face mask, make sure you’re mixing one-part apple cider vinegar with two parts water. Now, how about we head to the kitchen and DIY this thing.

Does apple cider vinegar make your skin clear?

The secret to a healthy complexion might be sitting in your pantry! Try apple cider vinegar for skin that makes you look years younger.

You love it for zesty salad vinaigrettes, and you may have even tried it to deep clean your hair—but did you know about the many benefits of apple cider vinegar for skin? If you struggle with acne or sensitive skin, it might be time to put away the cleansers full of harsh chemicals and reach for something a little more natural. Read on to find out if apple cider vinegar is the answer to your skin problems.

Check out 10 more unexpected uses for apple cider vinegar.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe for the Skin?

Apple cider vinegar is safe for your skin and can improve its texture and appearance, if used correctly. Ready to get scientific? Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties and it consists of acetic acid and alpha hydroxy acid. This means apple cider vinegar can exfoliate the skin, absorb excess oils and unplug blocked pores. It also has the power to restore the proper pH levels to your skin. The right pH balance keeps the outer layer of your skin, the acid mantle, nice and healthy; which is what gives your skin that bright, glowy look.

The best way to use apple cider vinegar on your skin is to make a toner. You can make your own by following the easy steps below. By the way, here’s how to make an apple cider vinegar drink.

How to Make Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

Supplies You’ll Need:

Organic apple cider vinegar (we like Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar)

Water, distilled or filtered

Step 1: Dilute

Pour the apple cider vinegar into a container. Use something with a lid so you can store it for daily use. How much vinegar you need depends on how much toner you want to make, but try starting with 1/4 a cup. Add equal part distilled or filtered water to dilute the vinegar.