There are countless beauty related tips and DIY tricks floating around on the world wide web, all promising to offer a solution to whatever beauty problem you can think of. At Amazingy, we’re getting to the root of one of those beauty secrets every month, trying to find a good answer to the question: Will this really help? Some home remedies are a great replacement to overpriced beauty products, but others can do much more harm than good. We’re on a mission to tell you which is which!

Those who have no pimple-popper handy can also, of course, resort to home remedies. The myth that toothpaste dries the pimple out is only partly true. Indeed, the zinc found in toothpaste has been proven to have a healing effect on many kinds of wounds, because it robs the skin of fat. But many other additives, such as fluoride and sorbitol, irritate the inflamed area an only exacerbate the problem.

So, toothpaste is not a zit solution. An alternative must be found. Tea tree oil, due to its antibacterial and non-comedogenic effect, has been found to be a suitable substitute. Apple cider vinegar works too: Just a small amount can work wonders. Mix either of these in a ratio of 1:3 with water and dab on the affected area. Make sure to clean your skin thoroughly before.

What works even better? A paste made from raw honey and cinnamon. Raw honey, such as Manuka, works as an antibiotic and is very rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Cinnamon has antiseptic properties. These two ingredients together make a killer combo for pimple prevention. Mix 3 teaspoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and spread the paste onto clean and dry skin. Let it sit mornings and evenings for around 15-20 minutes. This accelerates the healing process significantly. The inflammation and redness noticeably better after only one day. In general, the paste can be used as a 1x weekly mask to ensure and maintain a clear complexion.

Extra-Tip: Rosehip oil, offered by BalmBalm or Pai actually help with reducing the visibility of pimples, and in addition aid with healing acne scars.

* english translation: Emma Stern