Most women spend hundreds of dollars on expensive ointments and salon treatments and still get unsatisfactory results when there are simple procedures that can be done in the comfort of their own home to ensure their skin is healthy and blemish free. Read on for recommendations on how to keep your skin healthy and happy:

1. Exfoliate often

The excess oil produced by the skin clogs the pores and causes the formation of pimples; Dead skin cells build up and need to be removed regularly to make way for a new, healthier layer of skin. Be sure to gently exfoliate your face once or twice a week and you will drastically reduce the appearance of blackheads and blemishes.

2. Avoid touching your face

Throughout the day avoid touching your face as your hands sweat and this moves to your face. Most people are forced to pop a pimple the moment it appears, but this can actually make acne worse as it spreads bacteria and causes infection.

3. Apply ice and honey

Ice helps to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. Ice application helps remove oil and dirt and reduces redness and swelling. When your acne flares up, a single ice cube can do wonders. Honey acts as a natural antiseptic that soothes and heals the skin. The application of honey masks acts against the acne problem and is a good preventive measure.

4. Apply toothpaste

Use this as a quick hack to fix an inflamed pimple if you don’t have time for face masks or home remedies. A little toothpaste on the affected area and leave it for several hours or overnight, then rinse. This will dry out the blackhead, but remember to only use white toothpaste and never with whitening properties.

5. Aloe Vera

When it comes to acne, few things are as effective as aloe vera. This plant has antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and astringent properties and can be used as a facial mask, moisturizer, oil or included in the diet. It works wonders in reducing and preventing acne as it regenerates and soothes the skin, stimulating cell growth.

Acne can be unpleasant, but it is never a standalone problem. Many times, the cause lies in our lifestyle habits, diet choices, or stress levels, and we must examine these to see an unhealthy pattern that requires change. Remember: healthy, beautiful skin comes from within. Sometimes the problem may require medical attention, in which case the dermatologist provides effective treatment to clear up acne and restore skin to its natural, beautiful state.