Acne affects approximately 85% of people at some point in their lives, with frustrating pimples being one of the most common symptoms. While conventional treatments can be effective, they often come with side effects like skin irritation and dryness, leading many to seek natural alternatives.
In this article, we'll explore four science-backed natural remedies that may help get rid of pimples quickly, along with additional longer-term solutions for maintaining clear skin.
1. Spot Treat with Tea Tree Oil
Summary: Tea tree oil contains powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation when applied topically.
Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia. Research has shown that it effectively combats P. acnes and S. epidermidis, two types of bacteria that commonly cause pimples.
One study found that 5% tea tree oil gel was nearly four times more effective at reducing acne lesions and almost six times better at reducing acne severity compared to a placebo. Another study demonstrated that 5% tea tree oil gel was equally effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion, but with fewer side effects like dryness and irritation.
Important safety note: Tea tree oil is highly potent and must be diluted with a carrier oil before application to avoid skin irritation.
How to use tea tree oil for acne:
- Mix 1 drop of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil (such as jojoba or almond oil)
- Apply the mixture directly to pimples using a cotton swab
- Apply moisturizer if desired
- Repeat 1-2 times daily as needed
Treatment Summary: Tea tree oil offers a natural alternative to conventional acne treatments with comparable effectiveness but fewer side effects. Its antibacterial properties directly target the root cause of pimples while its anti-inflammatory action helps reduce redness and swelling. Always dilute properly and use consistently for best results.
2. Spot Treat with Other Essential Oils
Summary: Several other essential oils, including cinnamon, rose, lavender, clove, rosemary, and lemongrass, have shown promising antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties for treating acne.
Scientific research has demonstrated that many essential oils can effectively fight acne-causing bacteria. One study found that clove-basil oil was more effective and worked faster than 10% benzoyl peroxide at reducing pimples. Another study showed that a gel containing acetic acid, orange, and sweet basil essential oils increased pimple healing rate by 75%.
Like tea tree oil, these essential oils are highly concentrated and require dilution with a carrier oil before application.
How to use essential oils for acne:
- Combine 10 drops of essential oil with 1 ounce (30 mL) of carrier oil
- Apply directly to pimples using a cotton swab
- Apply moisturizer if desired
- Repeat 1-2 times daily as needed
Treatment Summary: Essential oils like cinnamon, rose, lavender, clove, rosemary, and lemongrass offer diverse options for treating acne naturally. Each oil brings unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can target pimples in different ways. Experimenting with various oils may help identify which works best for your specific skin type, but always remember proper dilution is essential to prevent skin irritation.
3. Apply Green Tea to the Skin
Summary: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce sebum production and fight acne-causing bacteria when applied topically.
Green tea contains flavonoids and tannins that help combat inflammation and bacteria. It's also high in epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant shown to reduce inflammation, decrease sebum production, and inhibit P. acnes growth in acne-prone skin.
Multiple studies have demonstrated that applying a 2-3% green tea extract to the skin significantly reduces sebum production and pimples in people with acne.
While there are commercial products containing green tea, making your own is simple and cost-effective.
How to use green tea for acne:
- Steep green tea in boiling water for 3-4 minutes
- Allow to cool completely
- Apply to your face using a cotton ball or spray bottle
- Leave on for 10 minutes or overnight
- Rinse with water
- Apply 1-2 times daily as needed
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Treatment Summary: Green tea provides a gentle yet effective approach to acne treatment through its powerful antioxidant properties. The EGCG and other compounds in green tea work on multiple fronts: reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and regulating oil production - addressing several root causes of acne simultaneously. As an added benefit, this treatment is highly affordable, easy to prepare at home, and suitable for most skin types.
4. Moisturize with Aloe Vera
Summary: Aloe vera gel contains compounds that help fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote healing, making it a potential ally in treating pimples.
Aloe vera contains lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenols, and sulfur—all of which can inhibit bacteria that might cause pimples. When combined with other acne treatments, aloe vera enhances their effectiveness.
One study found that combining 50% aloe vera gel with tretinoin cream (an acne medication) was significantly more effective at clearing pimples than tretinoin cream alone. Another study showed that adding higher concentrations of aloe vera gel to clove-basil oil increased its effectiveness at reducing pimples.
How to use aloe vera gel for acne:
- Extract fresh gel from an aloe vera leaf
- Apply the gel when using other acne treatments
- Try mixing it with your other treatment or layer it over your primary treatment
- Repeat 1-2 times daily as desired
Treatment Summary: Aloe vera offers multiple benefits for acne-prone skin, acting as both a treatment enhancer and a gentle healing agent on its own. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritated skin, while its moisture-balancing effects prevent over-drying that can occur with other acne treatments. For best results, use fresh aloe vera gel whenever possible, either alone or as a complementary treatment to other remedies mentioned above.
Longer-Term Acne Remedies
While the above remedies may help treat existing pimples, the following supplements have shown promise for preventing and managing acne over time:
Take a Zinc Supplement
Research indicates that people with acne often have lower levels of zinc in their blood compared to those with clear skin. Several studies have demonstrated that taking 30-45 mg of elemental zinc daily can significantly reduce pimples.
One study found that after taking zinc supplements three times daily for eight weeks, 38 out of 48 participants experienced an 80-100% reduction in pimples.
Note: The recommended upper limit for zinc is 40 mg per day, as excessive intake can cause adverse effects like stomach pain and digestive issues.
Treatment Summary: Zinc supplementation addresses acne from within by supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, and helping regulate hormone levels that influence sebum production. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with persistent acne who may have underlying zinc deficiency. Results typically develop gradually over several weeks of consistent use, making this an excellent complement to faster-acting topical treatments.
Consume Brewer's Yeast
Brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen CBS) may help decrease pimples thanks to its antibacterial properties and nutrient content, including B vitamins, chromium, copper, iron, and zinc.
A study comparing brewer's yeast to a placebo over five months found that pimples were healed or significantly improved in more than 80% of participants taking the yeast preparation, compared to only 26% in the placebo group.
Treatment Summary: Brewer's yeast provides a natural, food-based approach to acne management that works gradually to improve skin health from the inside out. Its combination of nutrients supports overall skin function while its antibacterial properties help combat acne-causing bacteria systemically. This supplement may be particularly effective for those whose acne is linked to digestive or nutritional imbalances.
Try a Fish Oil Supplement
Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that can help manage oil production, maintain skin hydration, and decrease inflammation—all factors in preventing pimples.
A study showed that taking omega-3 supplements containing both EPA and DHA daily for ten weeks significantly reduced pimples in all 45 participants.
While you can get omega-3s from foods like walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and fatty fish, supplements provide a more concentrated dose of EPA and DHA.
Treatment Summary: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation offers anti-inflammatory benefits that can help calm acne from within. These essential fats help balance the skin's natural oil production and support the integrity of cell membranes, potentially leading to fewer breakouts and faster healing. Results typically become noticeable after several weeks of consistent supplementation, making this an excellent strategy for long-term acne management and overall skin health.
Other Ways to Help Reduce Pimples
These additional remedies may benefit acne-prone skin, though research on their effectiveness for treating pimples specifically is limited:
- Witch hazel: May fight bacteria and reduce inflammation
- Apple cider vinegar: Contains organic acids that may help kill acne-causing bacteria
- Limit dairy intake: Some studies suggest a correlation between dairy consumption and acne
- Honey and cinnamon mask: Both ingredients have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Reduce stress: Research has linked stress to increased acne severity
Additional Remedies Summary: Beyond the main treatments outlined above, these complementary approaches can further support your skin health journey. Witch hazel and apple cider vinegar offer astringent properties that may help balance skin pH, while dietary adjustments like limiting dairy can address potential internal triggers of acne. Stress management is particularly important, as hormonal responses to stress can directly impact sebum production and inflammation. Consider incorporating several of these supportive measures alongside your primary treatments for a comprehensive approach to clearer skin.
The Bottom Line
Pimples can be frustrating to deal with, and finding effective treatments that don't irritate the skin can be challenging. The natural remedies described in this article are backed by some scientific research, though results may vary from person to person.
For quick results, topical applications of tea tree oil, other essential oils, green tea, or aloe vera may be most effective. For long-term prevention, supplements like zinc, brewer's yeast, or fish oil might be beneficial.
If you struggle with severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized treatment options.
Final Thoughts: When approaching acne treatment naturally, patience and consistency are key. Most natural remedies work more gently than conventional treatments, which means they may take longer to show results but often come with fewer side effects. Consider combining quick-acting topical treatments for existing breakouts with longer-term dietary and supplement approaches to prevent future pimples. Remember that skin health reflects overall wellness, so supporting your digestive system, managing stress, and maintaining proper hydration will complement any targeted acne treatments you choose.
Last updated: April 29, 2025