The weather is changing and suddenly your skin has turned into your worst enemy. Contrary to popular belief, acne is not just a summer problem – it can rear its ugly head in the run-up to winter too. You don’t drink enough water or clean your face often, and now your skin is breaking out. Don’t worry. Before you bring out your kit of harsh soaps and topical creams, read this. These simple home remedies for acne will help clear your skin in no time:

1. Change your Sheets Daily

This can be quite tedious but the results will pay off immediately.  You spend nearly 8 hours every night with your bed sheet and pillow case. Imagine how much dirt, sweat, oil and bacteria accumulates on it with frequent contact. This directly rubs on your skin as you sleep worsening your acne. Keep your bed area absolutely clean and fresh every day.

Things you need: Any detergent.

2. Garlic to the Rescue

Garlic is as potent as a topical cream. It is anti-bacterial as well as anti-inflammatory and works well on stubborn breakouts. You can either ingest it raw or apply a diluted garlic paste on your skin. Caution: never ever rub a garlic clove directly on your face or your skin will burn and peal out.

Things you need: 1 or 2 cloves of garlic, water or aloe vera gel for dilution

3. Steam it Up

Steam can soothe a number of maladies including acne. Take steam on your face at least once a day. The heat will open your pours and drain out the impurities lurking under the skin. You can also apply your face cream right after steaming to get the best results.

Things you need: 1 jug of boiling water, a large container, a towel to cover your face

4. Use Tea Tree Oil

The good old tea tree oil is a core ingredient in many home remedies. But why would you put more oil on your face, when too much oil is already clogging your pores? It actually works as a cleanser that dissolves the excess fat. Always dilute it first before applying on the face.

Things you need: 1 part tea tree oil, 9 parts distilled water or aloe vera gel for dilution, cotton ball

5. The Wonders of Yoghurt

Yoghurt is naturally probiotic, which restores the good bacteria on your skin and also reduces inflammation. Also, its lactic acid helps exfoliate the skin and its fat moisturizes, making it excellent for dry and thirsty skin. Make a yoghurt and honey mask, and gently rub it on your face in a circular motion, releasing the dead skin. Wash it off after 10 minutes.

Things you need: 1 tablespoon full fat yoghurt, 1 tablespoon natural honey

6. Papaya Magic

Why purchase expensive beauty products with papaya extracts when you can get the same goodness in your kitchen? A raw papaya mash is a great cure for acne. It contains an enzyme called papain, which reduces inflammation and pus. It also removes excess fat and dead skin, leaving your face soft and smooth.

Things you need: 1 fresh papaya

7. Dab some Baking Soda

The humble baking soda has many uses outside the kitchen.  You can unclog your drains with it and even wash your clothes with it. It works its magic on the face too. Make it into a thick paste by adding water to it and leave it on your face for 15-20 minutes. The mixture fights fungal and bacterial infections, dries up excess oil, and also reduces redness. Use it on alternate days, and you will be able to see the result in a week.

Things you need: Equal parts of baking soda and distilled water

We want to hear from you. Try these remedies and let us know your results below.