Blemish Control: Is Toothpaste for Acne Effective?
It’s the night before a job interview and you discover a blemish on your nose. You reach for the toothpaste, following the words of an old home remedy. Toothpaste is a key part of your daily oral health routine, but could it also come in handy in a beauty emergency?
Here is more information on using toothpaste for acne:
Choose the Right Toothpaste
- Avoid gel: Gel-based toothpastes may not be as effective in drying out and shrinking your pimple.
- Go natural: Look for natural or organic toothpastes—they contain helpful ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree oil, aloe, or eucalyptus.
- Watch the whitening: Toothpastes with polishing or bleaching chemicals can irritate your skin.
Test Your Skin First
One of the reasons toothpaste is known to be a temporary acne cure is because it includes ingredients that are drying agents: baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. But if you have sensitive skin, these ingredients can make the situation worse. Test a small amount on the back of your hand before using toothpaste for acne.
How to Apply Toothpaste for Acne
- Wash your hands to avoid spreading more germs to your pores, then wash your face and pat it dry.
- Apply a thin layer directly on the pimple. No need to rub it in. *If you feel burning or itching, your toothpaste may not be right for your skin. Rinse it off immediately.
- Let it sit overnight, or at least 1-2 hours.
- Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry.
Pro tip: Use a gentle moisturizer on the area to prevent dryness.
Using toothpaste for acne should be a short-term remedy. Eating the right foods and staying hydrated can also help prevent breakouts.
Check out more oral health tips to keep a healthy and happy smile:
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