13 Powerful Home Remedies for Acne

Moisturize with aloe vera
How it works
Contains naturally occurring salicylic acid and sulfur to heal skin and improve acne

May also help
Blood sugar levels
Heartburn
Inflammation
Skin conditions and burn treatment
Wound healing
Safety
Generally safe for most people

Aloe vera is a tropical plant whose leaves produce a clear gel. The gel is often added to lotions, creams, ointments, and soaps.

It’s commonly used to treat abrasions, rashes, burns, and other skin conditions. When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel can help heal wounds, treat burns, and fight inflammation (38).

Aloe vera contains salicylic acid and sulfur, which are both used extensively in the treatment of acne. Research has found that applying salicylic acid to the skin reduces acne (39Trusted Source, 40Trusted Source, 41Trusted Source, 42Trusted Source).

Several studies have also indicated that aloe vera gel, when combined with other substances like tretinoin cream or tea tree oil, may improve acne (43Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).

While research shows promise, the anti-acne benefits of aloe vera itself require further scientific research.

How to use it
Scrape the gel from the aloe plant out with a spoon.
Apply the gel directly to clean skin as a moisturizer.
Repeat 1–2 times per day, or as desired.
You can also buy aloe vera gel from the store, but make sure that it’s pure aloe without any added ingredients.