Acne can be embarrassing. As such, you may be trying to remove the existing pimples you have on your face and working to prevent new ones from developing. Fortunately, there are many different ways you can go about treating acne. There are face washes, creams, serums and even prescription pills you can get from a doctor or dermatologist. But, if you are on a tight budget, you may be looking for a cheaper alternative. Luckily, there are items you likely already have in your kitchen that can help to clear and prevent acne. Here are a few ways you can clear your skin with items in your kitchen.

Honey

Honey is one of the best ways to treat acne, clear your skin, and even hide existing acne scars. Honey contains natural antibiotics that kill the bacteria that cause acne. It also moisturizes the skin to keep it from drying out. Use natural or unpasteurized honey for the best results. Follow these directions to use honey to clear up your acne:

1. Wash your face with your preferred facial cleanser and allow your face to dry.
2. Apply honey to a cotton ball. Dab the cotton ball on any existing zits. Alternatively, if you have a large number of zits, you can combine two tablespoons of honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to form a paste that can be applied to your entire face.
3. Allow the face mask to sit on the face for 10 to 15 minutes. Leave the honey on the spot-treated zits for 30 minutes. If you have a large or stubborn zit, place a bandage over the honey-coated pimple and allow it to sit overnight.
4. Rinse your face with warm water to remove the honey.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another product you likely already have in your kitchen that can help you to fight zits. Baking soda has the ability to act as an acid or a base, creating a pH balance. Acne can be caused by pH imbalances in the skin, so neutralizing them can help you clear your skin. Follow these steps to use baking soda to control your acne:

1. Wash and dry your face.
2. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with two tablespoons of warm water to form a paste. If your paste is too thick, add a bit more water. If it is too runny, add a bit more baking soda. If desired, you can also add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Lemon juice helps to hide acne scars and makes the mixture smell better.
3. Apply the paste to your face. You can either spot treat your pimples with the mixture or spread a thin layer on your entire face. Allow the mixture to sit on your face for about 15 minutes. It may tingle or sting a little, which is normal. However, if it begins to burn, remove it immediately. Baking soda can irritate sensitive skin.
4. Rinse your face to remove the mixture. Baking soda can be drying, so always moisturize your skin after using this treatment.

A Banana Peel

The last way you can clear up your acne with items found in your kitchen is to use a banana peel. A ripe banana peel contains nutrients and antioxidants that can reduce skin inflammation and treat a variety of skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis and acne. Follow these steps to use a banana peel to clear up your acne:

1. Wash your face and dry it.
2. Remove a banana from the peel. Use a banana that is yellow or slightly brown. Unripe bananas do not have as many nutrients and antioxidants.
3. Rub the inside of the banana peel, or the white, stringy side, directly onto your skin. You may need to cut the banana peel up in order to rub it effectively into your skin. Continue rubbing until the affected area is coated with the residue from the peel.
4. Leave the residue on your face for as long as you can. If possible, sleep in it. The longer it sits on your face, the more time your skin has to absorb the nutrients and antioxidants left behind by the peel.
5. Rinse the residue away when you are done treating your face. Repeat this process weekly for best results.

Honey, baking soda and a banana peel can all be used to help you inexpensively remove acne from your face. However, they may not be able to clear up all acne. If you have tried various options and your acne isn't improving, you may need to see a dermatologist. They can provide you with prescription acne treatment services that can clear up stubborn acne, leaving you with healthy and clear skin. Contact local skin clinics or dermatologists for more information.