Buzz
Toothpaste is often considered a home remedy for acne treatment. However, many dermatologists argue that toothpaste is not an effective skincare solution and can actually harm the skin. It may cause irritation, redness, and peeling. Certain ingredients in toothpaste can dry out the skin, and there is no evidence to suggest it works better than traditional methods. If you still decide to use toothpaste, it should be done sparingly.
Steps
Apply toothpaste directly to each pimple
Check the ingredients in the toothpaste. If you plan to use toothpaste for acne, you should first review the ingredients listed on the tube. Some common toothpaste ingredients can cause significant skin irritation.
- Avoid using toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, triclosan, and/or sodium fluoride on your face.
- These ingredients are known skin irritants.
- Ingredients like calcium carbonate and zinc might have a more positive effect on the skin, but they are also found in specialized skincare products without irritants.
- Regular white toothpaste may contain fewer irritants compared to clear gel toothpaste.
Apply a small amount of toothpaste to clean skin. If you decide to use toothpaste, it’s best to test it first. Apply a small amount to a few areas of your skin. If your skin becomes red, dry, or discolored, avoid using toothpaste directly on your face.
- If no adverse reactions occur, dab a small amount onto individual pimples and let it dry.
- You can use a cotton swab to apply the toothpaste. If using your fingers, make sure to wash your hands first.
- Monitor the skin around the application area. If irritation or burning occurs, wash your face immediately.
Rinse off the toothpaste. The benefits of using toothpaste for acne are not well-established, so the duration it should stay on the skin is not fixed. Some leave it overnight, but if you have sensitive skin, prolonged exposure may cause irritation. Be cautious to minimize the risk of skin damage.
- When rinsing off the toothpaste, use warm water and gently massage in circular motions.
- Splash cool water on your face and apply moisturizer if your skin feels tight or dry.
Use toothpaste as a face wash
Dilute toothpaste to create a face wash. If you want to use toothpaste as a face wash instead of spot treatment, you can dilute it with water. Since toothpaste can irritate the skin, this method is generally not recommended. Always test the toothpaste on your skin before considering this approach.
- There’s no fixed formula, but you can mix a small amount of toothpaste with a cup of water.
- You likely shouldn’t use more than a teaspoon of toothpaste, but you’ll need to gauge the amount that won’t irritate your skin.
Gently apply to your face. Once diluted, you can gently massage the solution onto clean skin. Ensure your face doesn’t feel any stinging or irritation. Rinse thoroughly with water and avoid scrubbing your skin.
- If you experience burning or irritation, rinse off the toothpaste immediately.
- Don’t mistake dryness, redness, or tightness as signs that the solution is effectively drying out pimples.
Rinse off the toothpaste and moisturize your skin. Gently wash off the toothpaste solution as you would with any other face cleanser. Pat your face dry with a soft towel. Since toothpaste can dry out and irritate the skin, it’s advisable to apply moisturizer afterward. Ensure your hands are clean before doing so. If your skin becomes red, burns, or feels irritated, consider using an alternative method for cleansing.
Consider alternative treatments
Try over-the-counter products. While toothpaste contains ingredients that can dry out pimples, you can purchase specialized acne treatments that avoid the irritants found in toothpaste. Instead of toothpaste, consider using over-the-counter acne creams or gels to manage excess oil.
- Look for products with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- These products are widely available at pharmacies.
- A good skincare routine is more effective at preventing acne and maintaining clear skin than experimenting with home remedies.
Consult a general practitioner or dermatologist. If you have persistent skin issues and over-the-counter products aren’t effective, schedule an appointment with a doctor. They can assess your skin and recommend products tailored to your skin type.
- Your doctor may prescribe topical medications and/or oral treatments.
- Common prescription topicals include retinoids, dapsone, and antibiotics.
- You might also be prescribed oral antibiotics.
Consider using tea tree oil. If you still prefer home remedies for acne, tea tree oil is one of the best options. Tea tree oil is often found in skincare products but is also available in its pure form at pharmacies. Studies suggest that tea tree oil is as effective as benzoyl peroxide for treating acne when applied topically.
- Use a cotton swab to dab tea tree oil onto pimples. It’s generally more effective than toothpaste.
- Tea tree oil also has fewer side effects and is less likely to irritate the skin.
Tips
- Avoid applying toothpaste near the eyes.
- Use hot or warm water.
- Use a soft towel.
Warnings
- Do not use this method if you have sensitive skin.
What You'll Need
- Towel
- Toothpaste
- Towel
