Does Toothpaste Get Rid of Acne?
Toothpaste is usually thought of as the most effective way to prevent cavities and keep your breath fresh. But if old wives' tales are to be believed, it can also help eliminate acne for good. Though toothpaste does show some pimple-busting prowess, this quick-fix may not be all it's cracked up to be.
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What is Acne?
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Acne is a type of skin condition that causes clogged pores. These blocked pores then become inflamed and form blackheads, whiteheads, pustules or papules. Often red and inflamed, acne can cause significant self-esteem issues and potentially leave scars if left untreated.
Toothpaste's Affect on Acne
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People have thought for decades that toothpaste is effective in treating acne. There is some truth to this notion, however, whatever acne-fighting power toothpaste has, so too does it possess skin irritating compounds. For instance, toothpaste contains fluoride. While fluoride is excellent for the teeth, it's not so fantastic for the skin, causing irritation and even new blemishes to form.
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Acne-Fighting Ingredients in Toothpaste
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Some ingredients in toothpaste do show promise for acne sufferers. In fact, according to MedicineNet, sodium pyrophosphate helps remove calcium from the teeth, so it may do this to the skin as well. If there is too much calcium present in the skin, you may have trouble sloughing off skin cells fast enough, causing clogged pores and irritation. So, an ingredient that targets and removes calcium might just do something to fight acne. Other ingredients that may have an effect include sorbitol and hydrated silica. These ingredients are abrasive and may help to exfoliate the skin. Baking soda is another abundant toothpaste ingredient that acts as an exfoliator.
Type of Toothpaste That Works
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Not just any toothpaste will work in fighting acne. If you want to give this treatment method a try, pick up a tube of plain white toothpaste. It should have a mint flavor and nothing else. Steer clear of whitening toothpastes with peroxide, gels or cinnamon flavored brands. Any of these can irritate the skin and cause further breakouts.
Application
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Applying toothpaste for acne treatment is fairly simple. After cleansing your face and patting dry, place a small dab of toothpaste on your finger. Apply the toothpaste to any pimples you want to target with this treatment. Let each spot air dry. Leave the toothpaste on until morning, then rinse with warm water. You can repeat this treatment as often as necessary, though if you notice any new irritation, discontinue use immediately.
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