Garlic For Acne Does It Work? What Science Says
In a recent study, 7.5 % of garlic juice was found to fight against Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that causes acne (1). This study had further demonstrated that using garlic juice in a gel form could be better due to its added stability. However, this study needs to be further validated by clinical trials. Garlic has been used as a preventive remedy since ancient times to ward off infections and improve the immune system. Scientific evidence reports that garlic does have antimicrobial properties against other species of bacteria like Staphylococcus, Salmonella, Vibrio, Mycobacteria, and Proteus (2). However, the exact mechanism of how garlic works to fight acne is yet to be studied. For now, we can speculate that the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic may help manage acne. Savvy, a skin-focused blogger, discussed the medicinal benefits of using garlic against acne. She writes, “When experiencing any chronic illness, like acne, incorporating raw garlic into your diet will help your body overcome the infection… I take garlic every day to keep my skin clear. I pop the cloves like pills and down them with water (i).” If you are wondering how to actually use garlic to treat acne, we have got you covered. Read on to learn the different ways you can use garlic to treat your acne.
How To Use Garlic For Acne?
1. Garlic Puree
This simple homemade remedy acts as a herbal medicine and is believed to be effective due to the antibacterial properties of garlic. Raw garlic can also be used, though a diluted version will be gentler on your skin. You can use this remedy thrice a week for the best results. You will need
3 to 4 cloves of garlic 1 tablespoon of water
Process
2. Raw Garlic Juice
A less messy way of using raw garlic for acne is by simply using a diluted version of its juice. You can use the following raw garlic juice remedy as a rinse-off spot treatment to effectively treat those painful breakouts. You will need 1 tablespoon of strained garlic juice 1 tablespoon of water Cotton pads Process
3. Garlic And Yogurt
Yogurt has probiotics that may help treat acne (3). It is believed yogurt may also clear out clogged pores and dead skin cells that may otherwise contribute to acne. Include this in your skin care routine every alternate day to help get clear, blemish-free skin. You will need
2 to 3 cloves of garlic 1 tablespoon of yogurt
Process
4. Garlic And Rosewater
Rosewater is soothing and gentle on acne-prone skin. Rosewater and the plants extracts have been reported to be effective against acne, thanks to their antibacterial properties (4). You will need
3 cloves of garlic 1 tablespoon of rosewater
Process
5. Garlic And Aloe Vera
This natural remedy is applied topically on the skin. It can be helpful to prevent future breakouts (5). Apart from hydrating the skin, aloe vera also has an anti-acne effect (6). This home remedy is perfect for people with sensitive skin. You will need
2 tablespoons of garlic juice 2 tablespoons of aloe vera
Process
6. Garlic And Honey
Honey is a natural humectant and has antimicrobial properties (7). This remedy is perfect for those with dry skin. You should use this only once a week. You will need
2 to 3 cloves of garlic 1 tablespoon of water 1 tablespoon of honey
Process
7. Garlic And ACV
ACV has antimicrobial properties that may help treat acne-prone skin (8). However, keep in mind to use diluted ACV on the skin. Undiluted ACV could be too strong for your skin. You will need
3 cloves of garlic 2 tablespoons of diluted apple cider vinegar
Process Anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking garlic water or raw garlic juice may also help clear acne. However, keep in mind that consuming too much garlic has its own risks.
Precautions To Be Taken
While there are many evidence-based benefits of garlic for treating acne, you need to be careful when using it. There are some side effects of garlic that you should be aware of. Garlic is very strong in nature and can cause a slight burning or stinging sensation when applied to the skin directly. It is recommended to dilute it with water or other ingredients before topical application. Contact a doctor if you notice the following symptoms after applying garlic:
Redness Swelling Persistent tingling or burning sensation Allergic reaction, skin irritation, or rash
Garlic is known to interact with various drugs and medications (mentioned below) (9). Keep this in mind before you ingest garlic-based home remedies.
Warfarin Antiplatelets Saquinavir Antihypertensives Calcium channel blockers Quinolone family of antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin, and hypoglycemic drugs
Note: Garlic is a potent irritant and can cause severe irritant reactions, especially on sensitive skin. Hence, always dilute garlic juice and never apply it directly. It can be used on an occasional acne breakout, but if you have persistent acne, applying garlic daily can cause irritation, leading to pigmentation, and is hence not advisable. Can garlic burn your skin? Yes, garlic contains chemicals such as allicin and allyl propyl disulfide that may cause your skin to burn (10). Avoid applying raw garlic on your face. Are tomatoes and garlic good for acne? Yes, using a combination of garlic and tomatoes may be good for your acne. Tomatoes and garlic contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help soothe and manage acne (2), (11). Can garlic remove pimples overnight? There is not enough scientific evidence that suggests garlic may help reduce pimples overnight.
Illustration: Garlic For Acne: Does It Work And How To Use It Safely?
Say goodbye to acne with the power of garlic! This video reveals three simple steps to effectively use garlic for treating acne. Unlock the secrets to clearer skin now!
