Acne Attack? Maybe You Can Try Using Garlic For Pimples!

Mostly, acne is a result of the overproduction of sebum on the skin. This excessive oil and skin debris accumulate under the hair follicles, trapping bacteria within. Pimples usually occur on the face and neck area and affect everyone. Appearing as bumps, these pimples are inflamed. Other reasons also cause pimples, such as stress, hormonal changes, excessive sweating, existing medical conditions, the reaction to skin products, and even poor hygiene.

A while ago, a video went viral on Instagram. It was a video by a famous makeup artist claiming that she had found the perfect way to get rid of zits – garlic. In the video, the makeup artist is seen rubbing a piece of garlic on a chin pimple. She claimed that using garlic would instantly flatten down your pimples! Is garlic that good for pimples, as the makeup artist claimed? While there have been no studies to confirm the benefits of using garlic for pimples, the potent ingredient does have some properties that can help to treat acne. Here is how garlic is good for treating pimples:

• Antimicrobial properties This strong, flavourful ingredient is rich in antimicrobial properties. It contains compounds that hinder the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, which can help treat certain conditions. These compounds may also be able to fight acne-causing bacteria, making garlic good for pimples. Studies have found that garlic's antimicrobial properties are all thanks to a chemical known as allicin. Allicin is known to inhibit the growth of streptococcus epidermidis, a type of acne-causing bacteria. Moreover, other chemicals present in the ingredient also boost its antimicrobial properties, making it a potent remedy to combat pimples.
• Anti-inflammatory properties One of the contributors that facilitate the growth of acne is pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, to combat these molecules that promote inflammation, the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic come in handy. Studies have also found that allicin reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing its pro-inflammatory properties and preventing pimples.
• Healing properties When applied to the skin, garlic has wound-healing properties. It has been found that garlic might help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, corn formations and fungal infections on the skin. It may also help to prevent scarring that is a cause of acne breakouts.

Here are a few ways you can use garlic for pimples. Before using, however, do a patch test, as garlic may also cause adverse reactions in some. It is advisable to try these methods for pimples only after a patch test. DISCLAIMER: If your skin burns after applying garlic, immediately remove it from the skin.

Garlic is rich in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and rose water, too, is rich in the same properties. Moreover, rose water also helps reduce redness and soothes the skin. How to use it?

• Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add a tablespoon of rose water to it.
• Apply the mixture to the affected areas and leave it for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off with cold water.
• Pat your face dry gently.

When combined with the cooling properties of yoghurt, garlic can help to remove dead skin cells and open up blocked pores along with treating pimples. How to use it?

• Mash 4 cloves of garlic as fine as possible, and to it, add a tablespoon of yoghurt.
• Mix it well and apply it to a clean face.
• Massage and leave the mixture on for 5-10 minutes. Wash off with cold water.

Just like garlic, honey to has natural antibacterial properties. Moreover, it also moisturises and soothes the skin. How to use it?

• Extract the juice from 3-4 garlic cloves.
• Add a teaspoon of honey to it and 1/4th teaspoon of turmeric if you like.
• Apply this mask directly on pimples and let it set for 15-20 minutes. Wash it off in a few minutes.

Aloe vera is the best soothing agent for the skin, and additionally, it also reduces inflammation on the skin. When combined with garlic, it makes an effective acne treatment. How to use it?

• Crush 2-3 garlic cloves and add half a cup of water to it.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes, and then add in a teaspoon of aloe vera gel.
• Apply this mixture to the affected areas and let it dry.
• Once dry, wash it off with cold water.

Yes, if you have sensitive skin, you must be careful before using garlic for pimples. It might cause a reaction. Some people develop rashes or blisters because of using garlic topically. This usually happens when freshly crushed/chopped garlic is applied in higher amounts without adding anything else to dilute its concentration. This is why, before using garlic on your face, a patch test on your hand or elbow is recommended to check for any reactions.

While you cannot permanently stop pimples from popping up on your face, you definitely can take measures to prevent them. Here's what you can do:

• Wash your face twice a day, and especially immediately after sweating
• If your skin is acne-prone, use water-based makeup products
• Do not touch or squeeze your pimples
• Remove makeup thoroughly before hitting the sack
• Don't exfoliate too much, and do not scrub over acne at all
• Avoid using oily lotions on the skin