The “toothpaste method" is highly recommended by a number of DIY experts and average people, but it is not recommended by doctors. The reason why toothpaste works to get rid of blackheads and other pimples is because it contains ingredients that help dry out the infected pores. However, as you can imagine, toothpaste also contains many other ingredients that could potentially cause other problems with your skin, including an allergic reaction. [3] X Research source Feel free to try out the “toothpaste method” but know that your doctor may not approve. If you’re concerned, try some of the other suggestions that include only pure ingredients.
Instead of using your fingers, you can apply the toothpaste to your face using a face cloth soaked in olive or almond oil. You can rub the toothpaste into your skin with the face cloth for a few minutes. [5] X Research source
Make sure your face remains moist throughout this whole process. As an alternative to salt, you can use baking soda. Before your moisturize, you can also rub an ice cube around on your face to help close the pores to prevent bacteria from getting inside.
To open your pores even more before cleansing, steam your skin by placing your face above a bowl of hot or boiling water. Always wash your face after any activities that cause you to sweat heavily. [11] X Research source You can buy face washes with salicylic acid at a regular store or pharmacy. Benzoyl peroxide is another helpful ingredient for acne that’s found in OTC face washes. [12] X Expert Source R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPHBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 19 February 2021.
Also remember that it’s important to wash your make-up tools and brushes regularly as bacteria and dirt build up on them over time. Wash them with warm water and a gentle soap.
Another mask option is a combination of 2 tablespoons (29. 6 ml) of oats and 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt. You can also add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice if you’d like. This mask should only be left on your face for up to 5 minutes before washing it off with cold water. If you prefer something red, you can create a mask using a crushed tomato. Rub the crushed tomato on your face for a couple of minutes, then leave it for another 15 before rinsing it off.
Instead of milk, you can also use 1 teaspoon of cinnamon with 1 teaspoon of raw honey. You will still need to mix these items together until they form a paste, but the mixture doesn’t need to be heated. This mixture only needs to remain on your face for 3-5 minutes before you pull off the cotton strips.
The lemon juice can be stored in the small bottle in the fridge for you to a week. If the pure lemon juice is too strong on your skin, add water to the juice before applying it to your face. As an alternative, you can mix 3 teaspoons of the lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and apply to your face using the same method. Leave it on overnight. Another lemon juice option is to mix 4 teaspoons of lemon juice with 2 tablespoons (29. 6 ml) of milk. This mixture can be left on your face for about 30 minutes before being washed off. It does not get left on your skin overnight.
An alternative to baking soda is a mixture of 1 teaspoon of sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon of olive oil or lemon juice. Rub this mixture into your face for about a minute and then rinse off.
