- There are several variations of toothpaste acne cures to choose from. The simplest method is to apply the toothpaste directly to the pimple. Other home remedies say that the toothpaste treatment is more effective if the pimple is washed with salt water prior to application because the salt water has natural cleansing and healing properties. Many also recommend placing a bandage over the pimple after the toothpaste is applied to keep the toothpaste in place.
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Before you begin zapping your zits, check to make sure using toothpaste as a spot treatment is right for you. Toothpaste cures for acne can often irritate severe acne conditions and sensitive skin. If the skin around your lips turns red after you brush your teeth or if you feel a burning or itching sensation when you apply the toothpaste, then this option may not be for you. The toothpaste may actually cause more irritation and redness. It is not recommended that toothpaste be used on any other part of the body besides the face for this reason. There are several types of acne body washes both prescribed and over-the-counter that are affective for treating body acne.
Once you have determined that toothpaste will not irritate your skin, purchase a toothpaste for the task. Regular toothpaste is recommended over gel- or tartar-control toothpastes, which don't tend to be as effective. Colgate and Crest are the most widely recommended, but you can see product reviews for toothpaste acne treatments at Acne.org. -
Begin by thoroughly washing your face with warm water and soap, a facial cleanser or salt water. Then, with your finger or a Q-Tip, put a very small amount of toothpaste on the pimple. Use the toothpaste sparingly and only on the pimples so as not to irritate the skin. Keep the toothpaste away from your eyes. You should feel a tingling, but not a burning, sensation on the skin where you applied the toothpaste. If burning or itching occurs wash the toothpaste off of your face and apply aloe vera gel to calm the skin.
Next, apply a bandage over each pimple that toothpaste was applied to. This allows the toothpaste to dry your acne without being disturbed. The bandages will hold the toothpaste in place and are recommended if you touch your face often, plan to sleep with the treatment on or will be actively moving around.
Leave the toothpaste on the pimples until it dries. Drying time varies, but generally takes from 15 minutes to two hours. Be cautious about leaving the toothpaste on your skin overnight. Leaving the toothpaste on your pimples too long can actually cause more redness and irritation.
After the toothpaste is dry, remove the bandages and use a washcloth and warm water, soap or facial cleanser. Make sure you close your eyes when you wash your face so that any remaining toothpaste doesn't get in them. Pat your face dry with a towel. Your skin may appear dried out in the area around the pimple. If the skin is red or irritated apply aloe vera gel or an oil-free moisturizer.
