Ask Kitty Magoo: Natural Acne Remedies

Dear Kitty,

Summer heat and sweat are making me break out! Do you know of any natural acne remedies?

Signed, Pimply in Perry

Dear Pimply,

Great question! It just so happens that I’ve done a lot of research on this subject, as I’ve struggled with breakouts caused by summer weather (Hello, sweaty bangs!) and various other triggers (Hello, hormones and stress!) for a long time. Over the years I’ve uncovered some truly excellent blemish-busting remedies, and I’m happy to share.

When it comes to skin care, I believe in a less-is-more approach. The efforts we make to “fix” skin problems often end up exacerbating them. (For example, if you frequently wash your face to combat oiliness, your skin will produce even more oil to compensate!) Your skin is an organ, and it’s pretty good at regulating itself if you let it. Using a gentle, natural cleanser and moisturizer (even if you’re oily!) will go a long way in helping your skin find balance.

When breakouts do happen, I create my own spot treatment by adding a couple drops of tea tree and lavender essential oils (or the Veriditas Acne Aid) to a little bit of green clay. I dab the mixture directly onto blemishes and leave it overnight. When I wake up, my skin is almost always a little (or a lot) clearer than it was the night before.

Clay isn’t just for spot treatments. It makes an excellent facial mask that can be used to help draw impurities from the pores and exfoliate away dead skin. Clay mixes well with almost any liquid, so experiment with water, honey, yogurt, milk, apple cider vinegar, and other ingredients until you find your perfect recipe. If you’d rather not make your own, Community Pharmacy has an outstanding selection.

Meow!