From toothpaste to garlic and lemon juice, the internet is never short of home remedies for acne, especially the ones that can work overnight. And lately, since actor Tamannah Bhatia announced she uses her spit for pimples (and it works), this trend is making the rounds on the internet. As grossed out as you might be, we wanted to know if this actually works. Because if it does, this will be the cheapest treatment for acne. We asked dermatologist Dr Thalha who deals with problems of acne on a daily basis. He agrees that some lab-based studies have shown that human saliva can prohibit acne-causing bacteria. But Dr Thalha explains why applying your saliva might not be the best DIY treatment for acne.

 

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“In real life, the antimicrobial compounds in saliva are present in far lower concentrations than those in proven acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Applying saliva to the skin can also introduce oral bacteria, cause irritation, disrupt the skin’s pH, and increase the risk of secondary infections, particularly on inflamed or broken skin,” he says

Why DIY isn’t always D-I-Why not

“Saliva is neither sterile nor clinically proven to help acne, and using it can delay proper treatment, increase the risk of infection, and harm overall skin health,” says Dr Thalha. He explains that the pH of saliva (around 6.2–7.6) can disturb the skin’s natural acid mantle, making it easier for acne-causing microbes to thrive. Add in enzymes like lysozyme and amylase, and you’ve got a recipe for redness, itching, and even dermatitis.

And it’s not just saliva. The classics — toothpaste, lemon juice, raw garlic — can also wreak havoc. The mix of baking soda, menthol, peroxide, and fluoride in toothpastes can cause burns and even perioral dermatitis. Lemon juice can sting, dry out skin, trigger sun sensitivity, and cause hyperpigmentation. Garlic is a known skin irritant that can cause allergic reactions and even burns, with “little solid evidence that it helps acne at all,” warns Dr Thalha.

Why some people “swear by” a remedy while others don’t

You’ve probably heard someone say, “It worked for me!” But, as Dr Thalha explains, that can come down to skin type, acne severity, technique, or just sheer coincidence. “What clears one person’s skin might leave another red, peeling, and wondering why they ever tried it,” he says.

Oily skin may tolerate harsher ingredients better than sensitive or dry skin. Mild, occasional spots may clear with a simple change, while cystic or hormonal acne needs medical treatment. And sometimes, the pimple was on its way out anyway, the home remedy just got the credit.

Can DIY treatments cause long-term damage?

Even if a skin hack seems to help at first, it can leave you with dark spots, scars, or skin that stays sensitive for a long time. Harsh ingredients can burn your skin, cause lasting marks, or make it sting even when you use gentle products. Citrus-based remedies can make you burn more easily in the sun, and using strong or irritating things too often can lead to rashes that need medical attention. No skin type is fully safe; sensitive skin reacts quickly, acne-prone skin can get worse, oily skin can produce even more oil, and dry skin can get damaged and flaky.

Some people also believe that aspirin can work on acne since it contains salicylic acid. Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, which is chemically related to salicylic acid, but it’s not a perfect substitute. “Crushed aspirin may release small amounts of salicylic acid and offer minor anti-inflammatory effects, but its concentration, pH, and safety are inconsistent,” explains Dr Thalha. Plus, fillers in the tablets can irritate the skin. A proper salicylic acid product is safer and far more effective.

What home remedies actually work on acne?

No home remedies can work overnight on acne, but some do have research behind them. Tea tree oil, aloe vera, green tea, zinc, and honey show promise for mild acne when used correctly. But Dr Thalha stresses, “Use them under guidance, always patch-test first, avoid overuse, and remember: severe or cystic acne requires professional treatment to prevent scarring and long-term skin damage.”

What to do if a pimple appears before a big event

If a breakout strikes hours before an important occasion, skip the experiments and focus on calming the skin. Dr Thalha recommends:

• A gentle cleanse (no scrubbing)
• An ice cube wrapped in a cloth to bring down swelling
• A dermatologist-prescribed spot treatment
• A hydrocolloid patch to flatten the spot and protect it under makeup
• For painful cysts, only a dermatologist can help safely.

Why do you break out in the same spots?

Chin and jawline spots are often linked to hormones, especially around menstruation, PCOS, or stress. Forehead breakouts can come from sweat, excess oil, or hair products. Cheek acne may point to dirty pillowcases, phone screens, or even mask-wearing. Dr Thalha notes that “face mapping” theories about organ dysfunction have no scientific proof, but observing your own breakout patterns can help you identify triggers.

To connect with dermatologist Dr Mohammed Thalha for more personalised skin and hair care advice, find them here.

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