7 ways to treat acne without medication

Here are seven tips from a dermatologist as to how not to see a dermatologist for your acne in the first place. Yes, we’re there to dish out tips to reduce the number of patients we place on hardcore drugs like Accutane or long term antibiotics.

1. Anti-Acne Diet 

Acne can be caused by various factors including genetics, hormones, stress, and diet. While there is no one specific diet that can completely cure acne, some dietary changes may help to reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts. Here are some tips on how to start an acne diet:

1. Focus on whole foods: A diet that is high in whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help to reduce inflammation in the body and may improve the appearance of acne-prone skin.
2. Limit processed foods: Processed foods that are high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation in the body, which may worsen acne. Try to limit your intake of sugary drinks, desserts, and processed snacks.
3. Avoid dairy: Some studies have found a link between dairy consumption and acne, so consider avoiding or limiting your intake of dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
4. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for maintaining healthy skin. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
5. Consider supplements: Certain supplements such as zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics may help to improve skin health and reduce acne.

2. Supplements

While there is no one specific supplement that can completely cure acne, certain supplements may help to improve skin health and reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts. Here are some supplements that have been found to be potentially helpful in treating acne:

1. Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce acne. Some studies have found that taking zinc supplements may help to reduce the severity of acne in some people.
2. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for maintaining healthy skin and reducing inflammation in the body. Some studies have found that taking omega-3 supplements may help to improve acne symptoms.
3. Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health and reduce inflammation in the body. Some studies have found that taking probiotic supplements may help to reduce the severity of acne in some people.
4. Vitamin A: Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy skin and may help to reduce the production of sebum, which can contribute to acne. However, high doses of vitamin A can be toxic, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking vitamin A supplements.

It’s important to note that supplements should not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle. If you are considering taking supplements to help with acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that the supplements are safe and effective for you.

3. Acne Pimple Patches

Acne pimple patches are a type of skincare product that is designed to help treat and prevent acne. They are small, adhesive patches that are placed directly on top of a pimple or acne spot. There are two types of patches. The most common are typically made from hydrocolloid, a material that absorbs moisture and creates a barrier around the affected area. The second type (more expensive & not necessarily better) are infusion patches or micro dart patches. Micro Darts contain slow release topicals such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, arbutin & retinol.

The main benefit of using acne patches is that they can help to speed up the healing process of a pimple. The hydrocolloid material helps to absorb excess oil and pus from the pimple, which can help to reduce inflammation and redness. The patches also create a protective barrier around the affected area, which can help to prevent further irritation and infection.

Acne patches are generally very easy to use. Simply clean and dry the affected area, apply the patch directly on top of the pimple or acne spot, and leave it on for several hours or overnight. Some patches may be designed to be worn during the day, while others are better suited for nighttime use.

One potential downside of using acne patches is that they may not be effective for more severe cases of acne. For example, if you have a large cystic pimple, an acne patch may not be able to fully address the issue. Additionally, some people may be sensitive to the adhesive used in the patches, which could cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

Overall, if you are struggling with mild to moderate acne, acne patches can be a useful tool to add to your skincare routine. They are affordable, easy to use, and can help to speed up the healing process of a pimple. However, if you have more severe acne or sensitive skin, it is best to talk to a dermatologist before incorporating acne patches into your routine.

Recommended brands: Hero, generic via Chemist Warehouse

Concentration: Hydrocolloid in most over micro dart

Time to use: AM +/- PM

4. Tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil is a natural essential oil that is extracted from the leaves of the tea tree plant (Melaleuca alternifolia) and has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, which may make it effective in treating acne.

Here’s how tea tree oil may work for acne:

1. It has antimicrobial properties: Tea tree oil has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which means that it can help to kill the bacteria that can contribute to acne. One of the main bacteria that can contribute to acne is called Propionibacterium acnes, and tea tree oil has been found to be effective in killing this bacteria in vitro (in a lab setting).
2. It has anti-inflammatory properties: Inflammation can contribute to the development and severity of acne. Tea tree oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
3. It may help to regulate sebum production: Excessive sebum production can contribute to the development of acne. Tea tree oil has been found to help regulate sebum production, which may help to reduce the occurrence of acne.

It’s important to note that tea tree oil should be used with caution, as it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. It should also be diluted before applying it to the skin, as it can be quite potent in its undiluted form. If you are considering using tea tree oil for acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.

Recommended brands: Naturenics Tea Tree Oil, Artizen TTO

Concentration: 0.3-0.6% TTO – tea tree oil

Time to use: AM +/- PM, depending on skin irritation

5. Salicylic acid washes

Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is commonly used in the treatment of acne. It works by penetrating the pores of the skin and exfoliating the dead skin cells and other debris that can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne. Here’s how salicylic acid works for acne:

1. It exfoliates the skin: Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent, which means that it can break down the bonds between dead skin cells and help to remove them from the surface of the skin. By exfoliating the skin, salicylic acid can help to prevent the buildup of dead skin cells and other debris that can clog pores and contribute to acne.
2. It penetrates the pores: Salicylic acid is lipid-soluble, which means that it can penetrate the pores of the skin and help to remove the excess oil and other debris that can contribute to acne.
3. It has anti-inflammatory properties: Salicylic acid has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
4. It can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions: By exfoliating the skin and penetrating the pores, salicylic acid can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions.

Salicylic acid is available in a variety of over-the-counter acne products, including cleansers, toners, and spot treatments. It’s important to note that salicylic acid can cause skin irritation in some people, especially if used in high concentrations or if used too frequently. If you are considering using salicylic acid for acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.

Recommended brands: Cerave, Neutrogena, La Roche Posay Micropeel

Concentration: 1.5 to 2%

Time to use: AM +/- PM

6. Retinol 

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is used in the treatment of acne. It works by promoting skin cell turnover and reducing the production of oil in the skin. Here’s how retinol can help to treat acne:

1. It promotes skin cell turnover: Retinol is a type of retinoid, which means that it can increase the rate of skin cell turnover. This can help to prevent the buildup of dead skin cells and other debris that can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne.
2. It reduces the production of oil in the skin: Retinol can help to regulate the production of oil in the skin, which can also help to prevent the development of acne.
3. It has anti-inflammatory properties: Retinol has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
4. It can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions: By promoting skin cell turnover and reducing the production of oil in the skin, retinol can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions.

Retinol is available in a variety of over-the-counter acne products, including creams, gels, and serums. It’s important to note that retinol can cause skin irritation in some people, especially if used in high concentrations or if used too frequently. It’s also important to avoid using retinol products during pregnancy, as they can be harmful to a developing fetus. If you are considering using retinol for acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.

Recommended brands: Skinceuticals, Modules, Synergie

Concentration: 0.1 to 0.3%

Time to use: PM

7. Niacinamide 

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that has been shown to have a number of benefits for the skin, including its ability to help treat acne. Here’s how niacinamide can help to treat acne:

1. It has anti-inflammatory properties: Niacinamide has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
2. It regulates sebum production: Niacinamide can help to regulate the production of sebum, which is the oily substance that can contribute to the development of acne.
3. It can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions: By regulating sebum production and reducing inflammation, niacinamide can help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions.
4. It can improve the overall appearance of the skin: Niacinamide has been found to have other benefits for the skin, including its ability to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve skin texture and tone.

Niacinamide is available in a variety of over-the-counter acne products, including creams, gels, and serums. It is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated, although some people may experience skin irritation or other side effects. If you are considering using niacinamide for acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.

Recommended brands: Synergie

Concentration: 5-10%

Time to use: AM +/- PM