Research shows that aspirin may be able to help treat some skin problems. But no studies have looked directly at aspirin as a possible OTC treatment for acne.
In this article, we talk about what we know about aspirin and how it might be used to treat acne. We also talk about some important safety concerns about how to use it.
Is there any scientific proof that this cure works?
Acne can be treated with many over-the-counter (OTC) products, such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
You may have also read about different home remedies that some people use to treat acne. Topical aspirin is one of those remedies.
Aspirin might be the main thing you know about it. A chemical called acetylsalicylic acid is also in it. Even though this ingredient is similar to salicylic acid, which is sold over-the-counter to treat acne, it is not the same thing.
Salicylic acid can dry out the skin and get rid of dead skin cells and extra oil, which can help get rid of acne spots.
It’s a well-known way to treat mild acne, but the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says there aren’t enough clinical trials to prove it works.
What kind of acne could it help?
Aspirin may help with inflammatory acne because it stops inflammation. This type of acne is marked by pustules, nodules, or cysts that are large, red, and often painful.
When a buildup of oil or skin debris traps bacteria deep inside a pore, this is called inflammatory acne. The bacteria makes chemicals that cause the skin to become inflamed.
Aspirin is less likely to help whiteheads and blackheads, which don’t cause inflammation. These lesions also happen when pores get clogged. But they usually don’t lead to redness and swelling.
It’s important to remember, though, that no research has shown that aspirin is an effective treatment for any type of acne.
How to use aspirin to get rid of zits
One home treatment for acne is to put aspirin on the skin. But the results are not always right. Still, here are the steps to take if you want to use it on your acne-prone face.
- Crush an aspirin and put it on the pimple.
- Mix one tablespoon of warm water with the aspirin powder to make a paste.
- Before putting on the paste, wash your face with a cleanser.
- Dry your face with a towel and put the paste on areas where you get acne.
- Let the paste dry for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use warm water to wash your face, and then use a moisturizer.
So, this is how you can treat acne on your face with aspirin. For good results, you can also put on the paste and let it sit overnight. You can also do this once or twice a day until your acne goes away.
Aspirin can dry out your skin if you take too much of it. It’s more than enough to use it twice a day.
Possible side effects
When you put aspirin on your skin, the most common side effects are dryness and irritation. This could cause peeling and redness. If you mix aspirin with salicylic acid, these effects can be amplified.
If you use topical aspirin a lot, you may also be more likely to have these effects.
Putting aspirin or any other acne medicine on your face can make it more sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Every day, make sure to put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
As a safety measure, you shouldn’t take any kind of aspirin while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor tells you to for a specific health problem. This can make your child more likely to bleed.
Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Since this is the case, you shouldn’t take aspirin if you’re allergic to other NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen.
In Conclusion
Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that reduces pain and swelling. Studies show aspirin might help treat a number of skin problems. But no study has looked directly at aspirin as a possible treatment for acne.
In theory, aspirin should help inflammations like pustules, nodules, and cysts get better. But it probably won’t help whiteheads and blackheads, which are non-inflammatory acne lesions.
Aspirin shouldn’t be given to kids, teens, or women who are pregnant or nursing. Aspirin shouldn’t be taken by or put on by people who are allergic to NSAIDs. Before taking aspirin, a person should talk to a doctor if they have any doubts.