- Benzoyl peroxide can be found in cream and lotion form, and kills the bacteria in acne while drying the pustules. Use benzoyl peroxide sparingly, as it can irritate the skin if overused.
- Tea tree oil comes from the Australian tea tree, and has been seen in scientific studies to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide without irritating the skin (see Resources below).
- Baking soda can be massaged into the skin as an exfoliator, or combined with water and used as an acne toner. Baking soda, also called sodium bicarbonate, kills the bacteria that causes acne while reducing inflammation.
- Salicylic acid can be found in acne creams, lotions, toners and even in makeup. Salicylic acid is a plant hormone that reduces acne and inflammation without drying or irritating the skin.
- Calamine lotion can be dabbed onto a cotton ball to dry out cystic acne and to heal pustules; it also reduces redness and inflammation.
