How to Treat Red Acne Spots With Distilled Vinegar

The causes of acne range from bacteria-trapping sports equipment near your skin to hormones and skin type. Red, acne-related spots occur when blocked pores force the surrounding blood to the surface of your skin. These red spots often remain after the pimples are gone. Astringents, both natural and chemically produced, are known for their acidic properties in drying out pores, thus reducing red spots. Distilled vinegar is a potent astringent, with a nearly 5-percent acidity level.

Things You'll Need

• Distilled white vinegar
• Small spray bottle
• Exfoliating face wash
• Cotton swabs or pads

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Instructions

• 1

  Fill your spray bottle with distilled white vinegar. If you have sensitive skin, fill half the bottle with vinegar and add water until it is full. This watered-down astringent will reduce the sting or possible irritation of the skin. Shake the bottle well to properly dilute the vinegar.

• 2

  Wash and dry your face. Use an exfoliating face wash to remove dead skin cells on the surface and to allow the vinegar to more fully penetrate your pores. The acid in the vinegar will minimize bacteria on the surface of your skin and stimulate cell regrowth by promoting thin layers of skin peeling.

• 3

  Spray a cotton swab or cotton pad with vinegar and wipe the area of red acne spots. If your skin is sensitive, you may experience a stinging sensation because of the vinegar's acidity. Stinging is a common side effect of acidic products, particularly if you have dry or delicate skin. Discontinue using vinegar if the stinging continues for more than a minute or if you begin noticing hives, redness or swelling near the application sites.

• 4

  Rinse the vinegar off your face with cool water. Depending on the severity of your acne and the sensitivity of your skin, you may repeat this application process up to three times daily. Visible results could take up to two weeks.