Acne is a common skin problem that can affect any part of the body. It usually appears on the face, chest, neck, back, and shoulders. However, when the temperature is high and you wear clothing that exposes your skin to more sun, you become prone to getting leg acne. It can take several forms, from tiny pimples to large cysts. These can cause discomfort and pain. However, there are simple and effective home remedies for acne on the legs. So, let’s explore the causes of acne on the legs and how to get rid of leg acne by using these natural remedies.

What are the causes of acne on legs?

Leg acne, while less prevalent than face acne, can develop due to a variety of factors that irritate or clog pores on your legs. Here are some common causes:

1. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammatory disorder caused by infection of the hair follicles, usually by bacteria like staph, as found in a study published in the American Academy of Dermatology Journal. Folliculitis can be caused by cuts or irritation from shaving, tight clothing that traps sweat and friction, or even spending time in dirty pools or hot tubs.

2. Acne Mechanica

Acne mechanica is a type of acne caused by friction and pressure on your skin, according to a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association. If you wear tight clothing during activity or sports it presses against the skin, stimulating hair follicles and trapping sweat, which can cause breakouts on the thighs, buttocks, and calves.

3. Sweat

While sweating is a natural bodily function, sweat itself does not cause acne. However, sweat that sits on your skin for extended periods can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause breakouts. This is why showering or changing sweaty clothes after exercise is important, suggests Ayurveda expert Dimple Jangda.

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Also Read: Is sweating good for skin?

4. Not shaving correctly

Shaving can irritate the skin and cause ingrown hair, which can become infected and resemble acne bumps. Shaving with dull razors, against the grain, or using harsh shaving creams can worsen the problem. However, more research is needed to prove the claim.

6 easy home remedies to get rid of acne on legs

Here is a complete guide on how to get rid of leg acne as explained by the expert:

1. Chickpea flour mask

Chickpea flour acts as a good anti-pimple agent that helps to decrease the oiliness of the skin. It brightens the skin tone and helps you get rid of acne, as found in a study published in the World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of chickpea flour
• 1 tablespoon of yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder

Method:

• Mix all ingredients in all bowls.
• Apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes.
• Gently wash it off with running water.

2. Tea tree oil mask

Tea tree oil is an effective remedy for your skin, as it has antibacterial properties, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory that help cleanse the pores. They also help lighten scars caused by acne, as found in a study published in the Antioxidants Journal.

Ingredients:

• Tea tree oil
• Cotton
• Water

Method:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of water.
• Dip a cotton swab in the mixture and apply it to the affected areas.
• Use moisturiser if required.
• Repeat this process one to two times per day.

3. Aloe vera gel mask

When you apply aloe vera gel on your skin, it helps to soothe inflammation and acne. According to a study published in the International Journal of Aromatherapy, when aloe vera gel is applied to the acne-affected area, its anti-acne properties help to treat it effectively.

Ingredients:

Method:

• Scrape the gel from the aloe plant with a spoon.
• Apply the gel immediately to moisturise and clean the skin.
• Repeat once to twice a day, or as desired.

4. Apple cider vinegar mask

Another effective home remedy is apple cider vinegar which can be used to cleanse the skin of unhealthy bacteria and balance the pH level of the skin. Apple cider vinegar contains organic acids like citric acid. According to the 2016 International Journal of Cosmetic Research, citric acid can destroy acne bacteria when combined with zinc oxide. It acts as a toner as well.

Ingredients:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Cotton balls
• Water

Method:

• Combine 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 3 tablespoons of water.
• After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to your skin using a cotton ball.
• Allow it to sit for 5 to 20 seconds, then rinse with water and pat dry.

5. Honey and cinnamon mask

A 2017 study published in Scientia Pharmaceutica Journal discovered that the combination of honey and cinnamon bark extract had antibacterial properties against acne.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Method:

• Combine 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to make a paste.
• After cleaning your skin, apply the mask and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse off the mask well and pat your face dry.

6. Green tea mask

Green tea is high in antioxidants, and drinking it can improve your health. It may also help you get rid of acne. A 2017 study published in the Antioxidant Journal found that the polyphenols in green tea, which help combat bacteria and reduce inflammation, are two of the leading causes of acne.

Ingredients:

• Green tea
• Cotton balls
• Spray bottle

Method:

• Steep green tea in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes.
• Let the brewed tea cool.
• Apply the tea to your skin with a cotton ball or pour it into a spray bottle and spritz.
• Allow to dry before washing it off with water and patting your skin dry.

Keep in mind!

There is a risk that the combination will be allergic to some skin types, thus a patch test is advised before taking any of these remedies. Also, always consult with your doctor before using these home remedies to get rid of leg acne.